The early disbursement of food benefits for February has resulted in an increase in illegal sales of benefits. We have noticed and we are paying attention.
Others are too, and sharing images with us.
- Selling less than $100 in benefits carries a prison sentence of up to one year and fines of up to $1,000.
- Selling benefits can result in a total of 20 years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines.
- One of the most common ways fraud is reported is by screenshots of social media.
- Selling benefits could result in a permanent loss of benefits.
- Committing benefit fraud could cost you any future benefits.
- Committing benefit fraud could cost you your freedom, for up to 20 years.
If you sell benefits, you could be buying trouble.
You can report suspected public assistance fraud here, or by calling HCJFS at 513-946-2217 or going to www.jfs.ohio.gov/fraud.
