How To Report Food Stamp Fraud | State-Specific Reporting Methods

If you suspect food stamp (SNAP) fraud, you have a few key ways to report it. The best method depends on the type of fraud and the state you are in.

Here’s how to report it in the United States:

✅ How to Report Food Stamp Fraud

🔹 1. National USDA Reporting (For Any State)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees SNAP at the federal level.

You can report fraud anonymously through any of these methods:

📞 Phone:

• 1-800-424-9121 (USDA Office of Inspector General Hotline)

  • Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–3 PM EST

🌐 Online Form:

• https://www.usda.gov/oig/hotline

📧 Email:

• Hotline@oig.usda.gov

📬 Mail:

USDA Office of Inspector General
P.O. Box 23399
Washington, DC 20026-3399

🔹 **2. Report to Your State SNAP Agency

Each state has its own fraud investigation unit. You can usually:

• File a fraud report online via your state’s SNAP website

• Call your local Department of Human Services (DHS) or Department of Social Services (DSS)

🔍 Find your state office here: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory

Your State Agency

For recipient fraud (someone lying about their income or selling their benefits), the most direct and effective method is to contact your state’s Department of Human Services or the equivalent agency. They handle eligibility and investigations at the local level.

• Many states have dedicated fraud hotlines or online reporting forms. It’s a good idea to search for “[Your State] food stamp fraud hotline” to find the most accurate contact information.

Here are a few examples of state-specific reporting methods:

• California: The Welfare Fraud Hotline at 1-800-344-8477.
• Florida: The Department of Children and Families has a dedicated page for reporting different types of fraud.
• Illinois: The Department of Human Services has a phone number (1-800-843-6154) and online form for reporting SNAP fraud.
• Massachusetts: The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) has a hotline at 1-800-372-8399.
• New York: The Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) has an online form for reporting welfare fraud.

🚨 What to Include in a Report

Try to include as much detail as possible:

• Name and address of the person or store

• Type of fraud (e.g., selling benefits, false income claims)

• Dates or time period of the fraud

• Any evidence or witnesses

• Your contact info (optional)

You can remain anonymous, but giving your name can help investigators follow up if needed.

🚫 Common Types of SNAP Fraud

If you’re unsure whether a situation counts as fraud, it’s still okay to report it. The USDA or your state agency will determine whether it warrants investigation.