These 5 Common Types of Fraud Steal Taxpayer Money
Fraud is a major concern for the U.S. government. Every year, millions of dollars are lost through various government projects that work to keep citizens safe and healthy. As these projects are crucial to the physical and financial health of the country, the government works to keep these projects efficient by actively prosecuting fraudulent contractors or program participants. To help with these prosecutions, the government may accept a lawsuit filed by a whistleblower who is aware of an instance of wrongdoing or fraud. These legal actions are known as qui tam lawsuits.
If you have information regarding an instance of fraud against the federal government, you may be able to pursue litigation against that entity on behalf of the federal government. The following are some of the most common instances of fraud noted in qui tam lawsuits:
#1: Defense Fraud
Defense contractors receive incredible amounts of taxpayer money, but occasionally may illegally take these funds as profit or get a contract through illegal bid-rigging and other unfair measures.
#2: Healthcare Fraud
Fraud in the Medicare and Medicaid systems is rampant. These healthcare programs are essential for many middle- and working-class Americans. However, fraud can sap these programs of important funds through wrongful billing and other schemes.
#3: Housing Fraud
The government offers many lower-income families loan assistance on their homes. However, lenders and applicants may abuse the rules of these loans, misappropriating taxpayers’ money.
#4: TARP Fraud
To protect the financial institutions in the United States from complete collapse, the government created the Troubled Asset Relief Program, also known as TARP. This program has been abused by some groups, leading to millions of dollars in fraud.
#5: Federal Loan Fraud
There are several types of federal loan programs that help ordinary citizens start or maintain their professional lives. These include student loan programs, business loan programs, and even loan programs for farmers. When these programs are abused, it can mean an incredible loss of money.
Contact Us
If you have information regarding a government contractor or loan applicant’s fraudulent dealings, you may be entitled to file a lawsuit under the False Claims Act. For more information, contact a qui tam lawyer of Tycko & Zavareei, LLP, at 202-973-0900 today.
