Purpose

The Program Integrity Unit's task is investigation, establishment, and collection of overpayments, whether fraudulent or misrepresentative, within each eligibility program (such as Food Stamps, Medicaid, and Work First). The unit utilizes court action, both civil and criminal, wage garnishment, tax intercept, allotment reduction, and voluntary repayment as methods of collections for overpayments of benefits. The unit (historically known as the "fraud unit") has the responsibility to ensure that tax dollars are going to needy families and not to those who are abusing the system.

Eligibility

Every case that is referred to Program Integrity is assessed for collection and, if necessary, disqualification or court action.

Financial Guidelines

Generally, any overpayment amount is accepted by the Program Integrity unit for collection. The only strict financial guidelines are within the tax intercept policy where the requirement is an outstanding balance of $50 or more and within the NC General Statutes where less than $1,000 is a misdemeanor and more than $1,000 is a felony.

Referral Process

Referrals can be made to the Program Integrity Unit by citizens or by caseworkers. Complaints from citizens can be made on a walk-in basis or by phone. Caseworkers may make referrals by submission of a Program Integrity form and Coversheet. As much information as possible is needed for the unit to pursue fraudulent activities or misrepresentation claims.
Persons making a complaint or referral do not have to identify themselves.

The public is Program Integrity's best source of information.

Call 426-8210 to make a report of possible fraud.