San Antonio Welfare Fraud Defense Attorney

Can you go to Jail for Welfare Fraud?

For welfare fraud you could face misdemeanor or felony charges. For a misdemeanor welfare fraud offense, you could spend up to six months in jail and for a felony offense you could receive up to three years in jail. You could also face monetary fines from $500 up to $5,000 depending on your sentence.

Being accused of welfare fraud can impact you for the rest of your life. Aside from the immediate consequences, such as jail, fines, probation, and restitution, a conviction will disqualify you from ever receiving future benefits.

Welfare fraud may be committed by the program employees or by the recipient of the benefits.

The most common welfare fraud occurs when the recipient fails to declare income, assets, employment status, or the number of children in them home. 

Any type of fraudulent act can subject a person to welfare fraud allegations. When these charges arise, investigations conducted by state or federal agencies are vigorous. 

Penalties for Welfare Fraud in Texas

The penalties for welfare fraud depend on the value of the benefits taken, as well as whether the charges filed are a felony or a misdemeanor. Welfare fraud charges are also often paired with additional charges for theft, forgery, perjury, or conspiracy.

If convicted, you can be punished as follows:

• Misdemeanor – up to six months in jail and a fine up to $500
• Felony – up to three years in jail and a fine up to $5,000.

Because each welfare fraud case is unique, your outcome will depend on the facts and the evidence. Regardless of the facts involved in your case, you should take reasonable measures to protect yourself.

Schedule a Free Consultation

If you learn that you are under investigation, contact my firm to schedule a consultation to discuss your rights and options (210) 702-3054.