When DSHS or DCYF thinks you made an Intentional Program Violation (IPV)
Important information you should know if DSHS or DCYF accuses you of intentionally violating a public assistance program rule (sometimes called welfare fraud).
Contents
1. Get legal help
The information here applies to both DSHS and DCYF. To make things simpler, we just say “the agency” to refer to both.
If you get food stamps, TANF, or other benefits from DSHS, or you get childcare assistance from DCYF, and the agency, law enforcement, or a prosecuting attorney is investigating you for fraud, overpayment, or benefit amount, talk to a lawyer right away. If you live in Western Washington, go to waw.fd.org/contact-us for contact info. If you live in Eastern Washington, go to fdewi.org for contact info.
If you get public benefits like SSI, food stamps, or TANF, and you’ve gotten legal financial obligations (LFOs) refunded by the Court, you may need to follow “spend down requirements” to keep getting benefits. You should tell DSHS about this refund as soon as possible. If you have questions, try to get legal help.