Introduction to Benefit Fraud
Fraud -
The Government wishes to encourage everyone to apply for benefits to which they are entitled whilst at the same time taking action against those who seek to defraud the system.
Every year millions of pounds are lost nation-wide from fraudulent claims for both Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. This costs every tax payer around £80 each year.
Mid Beds District Council is committed to stamping out fraud within the District and need your help. You know what is going on better than us because you see or hear things we don’t.
So what is fraud?
Fraud is when someone deliberately withholds or falsifies information in order to obtain benefit to which they are not entitled.Why do we need to stop fraud?
1. To protect public money
2. To provide fairness to those who are entitled to help.
Fraudulent claims have an effect on us all. When people claim falsely, the cost to the taxpayer increases and the amount of money for genuine people decreases.
So what is Mid Beds District Council doing to stop fraud?
We are committed to the development of an anti-fraud culture within the District. We are also committed to the protection of public funds. We have a dedicated team of professional Investigation Officers who prevent, detect and deter fraud. Much of this work is in response to information from the public.
Our Investigations Officers work closely with the Department for Work and Pensions, Bedfordshire Police and other enforcement agencies. We will take legal action in cases where there is clear evidence of benefit fraud. This may result in an offender receiving a criminal record and a prison sentence.
How can you help?
Mid Beds District Council will investigate all genuine information received regarding a false claim for Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit.
If you know or suspect that someone may be claiming benefits to which they are not entitled you can contact us.
Your information will be treated in the strictest confidence and you do not have to give your name and address. Give as much information as you can and we will look into the matter.
Call us on 01462 611 150
You can speak to a member of staff during the hours;
- Monday to Thursday 8:45 am to 5:00 pm
- Friday 8:45 am to 4:00 pm
- At all other times a 24-hour answerphone service is available.
Write to us at:
Mid Beds District Council, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Beds SG17 5TQ.
E-mail us at investigations.section@midbeds.gov.uk
* Download Revenues and Benefits Service Standards (application/pdf; 111kb)
