Food stamp fraud cases involve the illegal acquisition or use of government benefits intended for low-income individuals and families. These benefits, commonly known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, are distributed through the issuance of electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers.
Food stamp fraud undermines the integrity of social welfare programs and diverts resources away from those who genuinely need assistance. It can take various forms, including trafficking or selling SNAP benefits, misrepresenting household income or assets to qualify for benefits, and using counterfeit or stolen EBT cards. Combating food stamp fraud is crucial to ensure the efficient and equitable distribution of government assistance.
