Benefit fraud is when people claim benefit by giving false information or not telling us promptly of a change in their circumstances.

Housing Benefit fraud costs the country millions of pounds each year and is investigated by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).

Examples of benefit fraud

  • People who work but do not declare this
  • People who claim as a single person but live with their partner or other adults
  • People who do not declare their full amount of income, earnings, capital or ownership of another property when they claim benefit
  • People claiming from an address they do not live at
  • People who do not tell us promptly of a change of circumstances

Report Housing Benefit Fraud

  • Online at: www.gov.uk/report-benefit-fraud
  • Telephone:
    National Benefit Fraud Hotline on 0800 854 440. 
    Textphone service on 0800 328 0512.
    Your call is free and confidential - you do not have to give your name and address. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8.00 am to 6.00 pm
  • By post:

NBFH,
PO Box 224,
Preston
PR1 1GP

Council Tax Fraud

If you suspect a Council Tax fraud please complete our 'Report a Fraud' form and select Council Tax Fraud from the drop-down menu.

It helps us if you can give as much information as possible, this could include:

  • the type of fraud you suspect they are committing and why you suspect this
  • a description of the person(s) eg if they have any distinguishing features or "look like" a famous person
  • any types of vehicles involved; the colour, make and registration number, details of employer(s) names and addresses, how they dress e.g. do they wear a uniform - describe the uniform and the times they leave and return to the house. 

If you need any more advice on what information may be useful contact the benefit team on the number above.

Report fraud

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