Report Child Care Subsidy Fraud

The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) is committed to safeguarding the compliance of child care subsidy payments and takes potential misuse of funds seriously.

If you suspect or would like to report potential child care subsidy fraud, please email childcarefraud@dss.ca.gov.

When submitting a report, please include the following information, if available:

• Your name and contact information
• Date of incident
• Facility or provider name
• Facility or provider address
• Facility or provider license number
• Suspected fraudulent activity

What is Child Care Subsidy Fraud

Child care subsidy fraud can occur in a variety of ways. Generally, child care subsidy fraud involves intentionally providing false information or withholding certain information to obtain child care benefits they otherwise would not receive.

Potential Fraudulent Child Care Incidents to be Reported

Reporting suspected child care subsidy fraud helps protect public funds and ensures families who need assistance can receive it. While not exhaustive, the following list are incidents that can be reported:

• Falsifying records such as attendance logs, eligibility documentation or financial statements
• Using another person's identity to file fraudulent claims
• Provider receiving payments for services not rendered (including no children seen at the center)
• Failure to report changes of participants or others living in household
• Provider lives outside CA or not at reported address
• Collaborating with another party to illegally receive child care benefits

What to Expect After Reporting Suspected Fraud

CDSS reviews all reports of suspected child care subsidy fraud submitted to childcarefraud@dss.ca.gov. Reports are carefully evaluated, and referred to the relevant program for further review and action.