Fraud / Benefit Recovery

The Fraud/Benefit Recovery Unit is responsible for the investigation of suspected SNAP, TANF and/or Medicaid fraud as well as the collection of public assistance payments issued in error. 

The penalties for fraud include Intentional Program Violation (IPV) which removes an individual from program participation for anywhere from 1 to 5 years or permanent disqualification, repayment of improperly received benefits and possible criminal charges and jail time.

When an individual has an outstanding overpayment the state may divert tax refunds to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to collect monies using TOP (tax offset program) or STOP (state tax offset program). 

Assistance groups with IPVs and those without a re-payment agreement in good standing are not eligible for PRC programs including the school clothing voucher program. 

Suspected fraud can be anonymously reported at Jefferson_ReportFraud@jfs.ohio.gov or called into 740-282-0961.  When reporting suspected fraud, please provide as many details as possible (name, address, employer information etc.). You are not required to give your name when making a report however if you chose to do so, it will not be disclosed.