Penalty for Fraud
The State of Utah Department of Workforce Services takes fraud of public assistance benefits very seriously and prosecutes violators to the full extent of the law. We have access to a variety of fraud detection systems and work with federal, state, and local law enforcement to prosecute instances of abuse of public assistance such as not reporting income, lying about who lives in your home, and selling your food stamp benefits for drugs, money, or anything that is not food (trafficking). We are here to help you if you are eligible, but be aware if you intend to commit fraud and are caught, you will face severe legal penalties, including potential benefit disqualification, overpayment recovery, other monetary penalties, and potential jail time. If you apply, or are on public assistance, honesty is your best option, don't risk the consequences of committing fraud.
Click HERE to read the laws about fraud in Utah.