Benefit Fraud
If you dishonestly or deliberately try to claim benefits to which you are not entitled to, you are committing benefit fraud. This is a criminal offence. Often our clients’ mistakes arise out of confusion surrounding the criteria for eligibility.
If the office paying your benefit suspects you are knowingly claiming benefits to which you are not entitled to, they may investigate you for benefit fraud. A conviction could lead to a fine, loss of benefits and, in serious cases, a prison sentence.
If you’re accused of benefit fraud you may be invited to an interview, usually with the specific details being withheld, or you may receive a summons to court. The alleged offence could range from failing to report employment status to failing to report a change in eligibility status.
Examples of benefit fraud include:
- Deliberately failing to tell the benefits office about your true financial circumstances, such as if you were working while seeking Jobseeker’s Allowance or you did not declare your savings.
- Deliberately failing to inform the benefits office about your true household circumstances, such as if you were living with someone but claiming benefits as a lone parent.
- Using false identity or documents to claim benefits
- Deliberately not informing the benefits office about a change of circumstance.
The following list show types of benefits that are commonly falsely claimed:
- Council Tax Benefit
- Housing Benefit
- Jobseekers Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for disabled
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Universal Credit
What you should do if accused of benefit fraud?
Before attending an interview or court summons you should consult a lawyer. After your lawyer has obtained the exact details of the fraud it may be that an interview is not appropriate.
Our lawyers advise on the best course of action while gathering all the evidence to argue your case. We ensure your position is protected to ensure the best possible outcome.
Call us today and speak to one of our expert lawyers who provide you with all the important information that you need.
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We cover:
- Benefit Fraud
- DWP Fraud
- DSS Fraud
- Challenging an Overpayment
- Interviews under Caution
