What to Do After You Get a Target or Notice of Case Action From the Florida DCFS
If you have recently received a Notice of Case of Action letter from the Florida Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), it is important to take action and respond promptly. Our trustworthy defense attorneys can handle public assistance fraud cases and are here to guide you through your legal options and represent you through this difficult time.
What is a Notice of Case of Action Letter?
A Notice of Case of Action letter for public assistance fraud is a document that informs you that there has been an action taken regarding your case because of suspected fraud related to a public assistance program administered in Florida. The letter is normally sent by the Florida Department of Children and Family Services, an agency responsible for administering public assistance programs.
This letter will give you notice of the action taken by the agency, which could range from suspending your account, to terminating your benefits, to actual legal consequences. The letter explains the reason for the action and the evidence that has been collected. It will give instructions to appeal the decision or how to provide new information to the agency to contest the allegations made against you. There is also information regarding the consequences of being noncompliant and failing to cooperate with the investigation.
What Do I Do Next?
It is important to read the letter thoroughly to understand the allegations made against you. Our attorneys are here to consult with you on your rights, including the right to appeal the administrative decision and to give more information to support your case. If you have any documentation or evidence to support your claim, it is vital to gather everything together. Evidence to refute the claim can be in the form of rent receipts, pay subs, and bank statements, among others.
It is important to reach out to our firm early so that we may assist you with the case and build a good relationship with the investigator. It is vital to cooperate with the investigation since the failure to do so will result in further consequences. To support your case, our firm may provide evidence of your good character, or avoid the charges by setting up a repayment plan. It is possible to have the issue solved administratively with the DCFS instead of with charges. Going with the former route will protect both your career and any professional licenses you hold.
What Evidence Can I Use to Dispute the Claim?
When you dispute the claim of public assistance fraud, you will need to gather evidence that shows you are eligible for the benefits and refutes and allegations of fraudulent activity.
Financial documentation, such as bank statements, pay stubs, and tax returns, all show your income and the monthly expenditures. This can establish your financial situation and eligibility. Employment records like W-2 forms, employment contracts, and letters from past or present employers can also refute claims of unreported income.
For a residency allegation, such as the claim that you are not living in Florida, you can provide documents such as utilities, lease agreements, and correspondence with your landlord.
When there is uncertainty regarding your family members and dependents, you may provide documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and custody agreements. This proves the composition of your household for whom you are seeking assistance.
If you have previous correspondence with the DCFS regarding your case, it may be wise to provide copies of such correspondence. This can entail emails or phone records that prove your interactions and compliance with the program.
Please Contact Us if You Receive a Notice of Case Action from the Florida DCFS
Receiving a Notice of Case Action in the mail can be stressful for you and your family. It is beneficial to have a fraud defense attorney by your side to organize and present your evidence when disputing the allegations of fraud. Please allow The Umansky Law Firm to handle the issue at hand so that you may focus on what is best for you and your family.
