More information
What is Benefit Fraud?
Benefit fraud is a criminal offence where individuals knowingly claim benefits which they are not entitled to. This could be:
False representation for claiming benefits
- Delivering false information or evidence, or
- Failure to notify a change in your circumstances.
Or
Dishonest representation for claiming benefits
- Acting dishonestly when providing incorrect information or evidence, or failure to report a change.
There are many different types of Benefit Fraud. These include, but are not limited to:
- Undeclared partner living at the same address
- Undeclared job or form of income
- Claiming benefit from an address they do not or have never lived at.
- Persons claiming benefit who own a property or have money they have not declared.
- Landlords:- Who have false tenancy agreements or who continue to receive benefit for a tenant who has left the address.
How to Report Benefit Fraud
Test Valley Borough Council has no power to investigate benefit fraud. This is done by the Department for Work and Pensions Fraud and Error Service.
If you suspect someone is fraudulently claiming any benefits (including Housing Benefit paid by Test Valley) please report it using one of the following options:
- By Telephone: Contact the National Benefit Fraud hotline on 0800 854 440. Your call is free and confidential. You do not have to give your name and address. Lines are open Monday to Friday 08.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. If you have speech or hearing problems you can use a text phone service on 0800 328 0512.
- Online at: www.gov.uk/report-benefit-fraud
- By Post: NBFH, Mail Handling Site A, Wolverhampton, WV98 2BP
The Department for Work and Pensions Fraud and Error Service will look at the information you give. It might take some time to investigate your report. They will not be able to tell you the outcome of their investigation.
The Fraud and Error Service will only act if they find the person has been committing benefit fraud. Action can include removing a person’s benefits, getting them to repay money and taking them to court.
Sometimes no action is taken. The person may have declared a change in their circumstances or their benefit may not be affected by what you report.
What happens if you’re suspected of Benefit Fraud
If you are suspected of benefit fraud, you’ll be contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions. Your benefits may be stopped while the investigation is ongoing. If this happens, you will be notified in writing.
Information and support about what to do if you’re investigated for Benefit Fraud can be found on the Citizens Advice website, You think you're being accused of benefit fraud - Citizens Advice
Please note, Test Valley cannot pay to cover any benefits which are suspended due to Benefit Fraud.