How to Report Fraud (The Right Way)

A step-by-step guide to reporting fraud without losing your reward, your protection, or your case.

All resourcesHow to Report Fraud (The Right Way)The steps that keep your case — and your reward — intact.

Take the 2-min quizHow you report fraud matters as much as what you report. The wrong move can cost you the case and the reward. The right process protects both.

The four steps

01Gather evidenceCollect documents, emails, billing records, or communications you already have access to. Don't break policy or law to get more — what you already have is usually enough to start.

02Don't report internally firstTelling your employer before filing can trigger retaliation and weaken your position. In some cases, it can even disqualify you from the reward.

03File properly with a qualified attorneyWhistleblower cases must be filed under seal by counsel. Filing on your own or with the wrong attorney is the most common way a case fails.

04Let the government investigateOnce filed, the case is reviewed by the DOJ or relevant agency. You stay protected under seal while they investigate.

Ready to find out where you stand?

It takes 60 seconds and stays confidential.

Take the 2-min quizMistakes to avoidTelling coworkers or your employer before you filePosting about it on social media or speaking to the pressTaking documents you weren't authorized to accessWaiting too long — a later filer with the same facts can take your rewardHiring a generalist attorney who doesn't handle qui tam casesKeep readingUnderstand the legal processWhat qui tam means and how filing under seal works.Can you stay anonymous?What confidentiality actually protects — and what it doesn't.Frequently asked questionsCan I report fraud myself?You can report to a government tip line on your own, but you cannot file a qui tam case without an attorney. Self-reported tips don't qualify for the 15%–30% reward.Should I tell my employer first?Almost never. Internal reporting before filing exposes you to retaliation and can reduce or eliminate your reward share. File first, then the employer finds out through legal channels.Have information about fraud?Take the quiz or submit your case securely — whichever feels right.

Ready to find out where you stand?

It takes 60 seconds and stays confidential.

Take the 2-min quiz Submit securely

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