Benefit Fraud Checklist
Because of the credit crunch and recession, the Government has tripled its resources into Benefit Fraud and Tax Credit Fraud enquiries.
It is not when if they catch you but when.
Consult the experts. For more information or a free legal opinion telephone 020-7381-8111 (24 hour service) or email law@rhplaw.co.uk
1 – Would you to prefer to avoid an intimidating taped interview under caution, and instead prepare a statement with us?
2 – What do they say you have done?
- False statement?
- Not reporting change of circumstances?
- Living with someone?
- Working?
- Hidden savings or bank accounts?
- Allowing somebody else to make a claim, when they should not?
3 – What period does the investigation cover?
4 – How much benefit in all, did you receive during that period?
5 – Can you pay part of it back?
6 – The benefit system is complicated. Were you mistaken or poorly advised by somebody or by DWP?
7 – Have you been offered a civil administrative penalty instead of being prosecuted? Would you accept a civil administrative penalty, in exchange for a prosecution being dropped?
8 – Is the overpayment notice accurate?
9 – Have you appealed against it?
10 – Have DWP sent a breakdown of how the benefit was calculated if they said it was not disclosed?
11 – Are there any under claimed benefits which can help reduce the amount to be overpaid? Does the overpayment claim include amounts after investigation or interview under caution?
12 – Aggravating factors
- Large amount of money
- Organised
- Planned
- Previous convictions
- Bent from the start
13 – Mitigating factors
- Pressure from others includes spouse/partner
- Alcohol or drug problems
- Under claiming benefits
- Tax credits
- On impulse
- Repayment/offer to repay
In all circumstances – (24 Hour Helpline): 020 7381 8111 or email law@rhplaw.co.uk
Hylton Potts – Benefit Fraud Lawyers
