What counts as disaster relief fraud
Disaster relief is run by the FEMA and other federal agencies. Common schemes include:
- False claims for disaster assistance
- Charity and contractor scams after disasters
- Fraud in disaster loans and grants
Honest mistakes and disputes over a single bill are not fraud. Fraud means someone knowingly took money they were not entitled to.
Where to report it
| Contact | Handles |
|---|---|
| National Center for Disaster Fraud | DOJ intake for disaster and emergency relief fraud |
Can you get a reward?
WHIP does not list FEMA and other federal agencies among its covered agencies, so the main reward route is the False Claims Act, which pays 15–30% of what the government recovers on false claims for federal money.
- WHIP: submit in writing at America.gov/fraud, include your contact details, and do not take part in the fraud. Step-by-step guide.
- False Claims Act: a sealed lawsuit filed through a lawyer; worthwhile mainly for frauds of $1 million or more. Compare the routes.
- State laws: many states have their own false claims acts. Check your state's page in the case database.
Estimate your own case with the reward calculator.
What to include in your report
- Who: names of people and businesses, addresses, provider or license numbers if you have them
- What: the service, benefit or loan involved and what was wrong with it
- When and how often, and roughly how much money
- How you know: what you saw, and any documents or photos you are allowed to share
Where disaster relief fraud is being prosecuted
States with the most Disaster announcements in our database since January 20, 2025; the largest amount named is $6M (alleged loss):
| State | Announcements |
|---|---|
| California | 4 |
| Louisiana | 4 |
| Hawaii | 3 |
| Texas | 3 |
| Kentucky | 2 |
| Nevada | 1 |
| Illinois | 1 |
| North Carolina | 1 |
Recent Disaster fraud cases
Source: U.S. Department of Justice press releases. Charged cases are allegations. All 23 Disaster announcements
Frequently asked questions
Where do I report disaster relief fraud?
National Center for Disaster Fraud: DOJ intake for disaster and emergency relief fraud.
Can I get a reward for reporting disaster relief fraud?
WHIP does not list FEMA and other federal agencies among its covered agencies, so the main reward route is the False Claims Act, which pays 15–30% of what the government recovers on false claims for federal money.
Can I report disaster relief fraud anonymously?
Most inspector general hotlines accept anonymous tips. To be paid a WHIP award, though, you must give contact information and disclose your identity to the Justice Department before payment; you can stay anonymous during the process only through a lawyer.
How common is disaster relief fraud prosecution?
Our database has 23 Justice Department announcements involving disaster relief since January 20, 2025, counting each press release separately.