Our approach to Housing Benefit fraud

We are fully committed to stopping fraudulent claims and to detecting fraud within the Housing Benefit system. To help us to do this, when you make a claim for Housing Benefit you must provide evidence of:

• your entitlement to claim

• your identity

• your family circumstances

• your income

• your tenancy

Unfortunately,  these measures introduced to prevent and detect fraud may inconvenience those with a genuine entitlement to benefit and may mean it takes longer to deal with claims.

If you are already receiving Housing Benefit you must notify us about any changes in your circumstances. We will make checks to be sure the right amount of Housing Benefit is being paid. These checks might include:

• home visits

• postal checks

• telephone checks

• comparison against information provided to other government departments and agencies

Action will be taken in all cases where fraud is found. Actions include recovery of overpayments and court action. Court sentences include community service, fines and imprisonment.

Because fraud affects everyone it is in everyone’s interest to help stamp it out. If you become aware of fraud you can tell us in writing, in person or by phone. We will deal with any information confidentially and will not reveal its source. You do not have to tell us who you are.

You can also use the Benefit Fraud Hotline free 0800 328 6340.