A full range of penalties
We’re targeting benefit thieves with a full range of penalties
Benefit thieves – it’s not if we catch you, it’s when. And when we do you face:
- having to pay all the money back and sometimes more than you stole
- prosecution
- a criminal record
- a fine
- having your benefit stopped or reduced
- having your home and possessions taken away
- and even a prison sentence.
Once we have completed all our investigations you will be asked to attend a recorded interview under caution. And the stigma of benefit fraud is not something you can keep to yourself. There’s no hiding the shame from your family, your friends or your neighbours.
From 1 April 2010, you could have your benefit stopped or reduced for 4 weeks if you are convicted, cautioned or given an administrative penalty for a first offence of benefit fraud.
And if you are convicted of two separate benefit fraud offences within 5 years, you could have your benefit stopped or reduced for even longer.
