Fraud is receiving, attempting to receive, or helping someone else try to receive benefits to which they are not eligible.

The actions that constitute fraud include intentionally:

· Making false statements.

· Making false representations.

· Withholding required information to determine eligibility or benefits.

Participants found guilty of fraud are disqualified.

Notify the eligibility worker whenever there are indications a participant intentionally misled the county, Tribal Nation, or provider to get payments or services.

· County, Tribal Nation, or state fraud investigators conduct fraud investigations.

· If the participant is found guilty: The eligibility worker will notify employment counselors if a participant is found guilty of fraud and is disqualified from receiving a grant for a period of time.

· Eligibility workers initiate the process of recovering fraudulently obtained payments if necessary.

Children of participants who are disqualified for fraud can continue to receive benefits.

· Children cannot be found guilty of fraud.

· Participants disqualified for fraud whose children continue to receive benefits must participate in employment services and comply with MFIP work requirements.

The disqualification periods are:

· One year for a 1st offense.

· Two years for a 2nd offense.

· Permanently for a 3rd offense.