Report Suspected Benefit Fraud
It is important that funds intended for benefits go only to residents who are eligible to receive them. That is why the municipality verifies the eligibility of people receiving benefits. Are they still eligible for benefits? Is the amount still correct?
Because sometimes things go wrong with benefits. In such cases, people receive benefits even though they are no longer entitled to them. Or they receive benefits that are too high. This can happen by accident—for example, because someone doesn’t know the rules well or misunderstands them. But it can also be intentional.
If someone intentionally withholds information or provides false information in order to receive (higher) benefits, we call that “benefit fraud.”
Do you think someone has misreported information, whether intentionally or unintentionally? And that, as a result, that person is receiving benefits that you believe they are not entitled to—or is receiving benefits that are unjustifiably too high?
In that case, you can easily, quickly, and (if you wish) anonymously report this to the municipality using our online form.
Please note: You can only file a report about someone who lives in Kerkrade or is registered there.
When should I file a report?
You should file a report if you think someone is misusing benefits.
Examples of benefit fraud include:
- Someone has started living with a partner but has not reported this to the municipality;
- Someone earns extra money (for example, through undeclared work) and does not report it to the municipality;
- Someone is still registered at an address but no longer lives there.
Sometimes, someone receiving benefits lives as if they earn a lot of money. This could be a sign of benefit fraud. But it does not automatically mean that fraud is actually taking place.
How do I file a report?
- Report (anonymously) a suspected case of benefit fraud using the online form.
You are not required to provide any personal information, but you may do so if you wish. In that case, we can call or email you if we have any further questions. - Please provide as much information as possible about the situation.
- The municipality is reviewing the report.
- If necessary, the municipality will launch an investigation.
Please note: Due to privacy regulations (GDPR), we cannot provide you with any information regarding the handling of the report or any investigation we may conduct.
Questions
Do you have questions about reporting benefit fraud? If so, please contact the Work and Income Team on weekdays between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. at 14 045.