Frequently Asked Questions About the Workers’ Compensation Fraud Control Unit and Workers’ Compensation Fraud

Q:  What is workers’ compensation?

A:  Workers’ compensation is a state and local program that provides funds for employees who are injured while on the job.  It provides a salary for the injured person while they are out of work.

Q:  What is workers’ compensation fraud?

A:  Workers’ compensation fraud can occur in a variety of ways. When applying for workers’ compensation benefits, the employee applicant is informed of the terms and conditions of the program including the civil and criminal penalties for fraud.

Applicants are asked whether the injury is a complete fabrication to get workers’ compensation benefits.  Although is does occur, it is quite rare.

Next, and much more common, applicants are asked about possible income derived by working another job other than the one for which they would be receiving benefits.  Depending on the type of disability the person falls under, there may be instances when additional income from another job is allowed.  In any case, failure to report the income, if proven, is fraud.

Finally, applicants are asked whether they are working beyond their medically restricted abilities.  For example, if a person is declared to be “temporarily totally disabled” that person is considered to have zero work ability.  If that person is found to be working beyond their medical restriction, they, if proven, are committing fraud.

Q:  If I suspect a person is committing fraud, who should I contact?

A:   If you suspect a person is committing workers’ compensation fraud, please get in contact with the Workers’ Compensation Fraud Control Unit in the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney.  Local and state police departments in most cases will only take a complaint and then either forward it to the Workers’ Compensation Fraud Control Unit or suggest that the person making the complaint contact the Workers’ Compensation Fraud Control Unit directly.

Q:  Why should I report workers’ compensation fraud?

A:   Workers’ compensation fraud steals millions of dollars annually from every state in the country each year.  In Connecticut, citizens will inevitably make up that loss through higher taxes and insurance premiums.  Also, due to limited funding each year for workers’ compensation benefits, fraud can waste funds for those who truly need the assistance.

Q:  Can I anonymously report a suspicion of workers’ compensation fraud to the Workers’ Compensation Fraud Control Unit?

A:   Absolutely. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may do so when writing or calling to inquire about a possible fraud.