Report suspected public assistance fraud

Residents who suspect public assistance fraud are encouraged to report it to the Cuyahoga Job and Family Service Office of Investigations. The office aims to reduce fraud across all public assistance programs through detection, prevention, and prosecution.

The Investigations Office accepts referrals and investigates all complaints of suspected fraud. Methods for reporting fraud include completing an online Public Assistance Fraud Form, calling the Fraud Hotline at (216) 987-6950, or submitting referrals via walk-in or mail to the Investigations Office at Room 350, 1641 Payne Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44114.

Information provided by those reporting fraud is kept confidential, and individuals can choose to remain anonymous. If anonymity is not chosen, reporters are asked to provide their name, address, phone number, and/or email address so investigators can follow up if more information is needed. However, due to confidentiality, the results of any investigation will not be shared with the reporter.

For those who have experienced electronic theft of their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card benefits, there is a specific process for requesting replacement funds. This applies to benefits stolen electronically on or before December 20, 2024. Individuals have 90 days from the date of the theft to request replacement benefits.

To report the electronic theft of SNAP EBT card benefits, residents must complete the JFS 07011 Form, also known as the "Statement Requesting Replacement of Electronically Stolen SNAP Benefits." The form can be found by visiting the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Forms Central Page and searching for "07011." The completed form can be submitted via email to [email protected] or mailed to the Investigations Office at Room 350, 1641 Payne Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114.

It is important to note that federal SNAP replacement funds have not been renewed, meaning benefits stolen electronically after December 20, 2024, cannot be replaced.

Public assistance fraud is defined as knowingly and purposely providing false information to obtain benefits. This action is considered unfair to taxpayers and to individuals genuinely in need of assistance.