Private individuals can file a lawsuit for violations of the False Claims Act (“FCA”) on behalf of the U.S. government. If successful, an individual who files a lawsuit under the FCA, also known as a whistleblower, is entitled to up to 30% of the proceeds while receiving protection against retaliation. But what is the FCA? In order to answer this question and determine if you may be eligible for financial compensation under the act, please review the information below. If you have additional questions, contact a False Claims Act attorney for assistance.
The False Claims Act
The False Claims Act is one of the country’s most protective whistleblower laws. It allows individuals to report fraud that is perpetuated against the government and receive compensation in return.
Violations Under the FCA
The following are violations under the FCA:
- Using falsified records to obtain funds from the federal government
- Requesting funds from the federal government for fraudulent claims
- Colluding with others to receive funds from the federal government for a fraudulent claim
- Failing to pay a monetary obligation to the government
Consequences of Violating the False Claims Act
Anyone who knowingly submits a false claim or causes another to submit a false claim to the federal government faces a civil penalty of up to $11,000 plus three times the amount of damages suffered by the federal government.
Filing a Claim Under the FCA
First, if you have a false claim to report, it is important to file as soon as possible. In order to begin the process, your False Claims Act attorney will discuss the matter with you and help you compile all of the information required to organize and file your claim.
Whistleblower Protection
If your employer retaliates against you for filing your claim, you may be entitled to the following:
- Future lost earnings
- Double backpay
- Special damages
- Compensation for case costs and legal fees
Compensation under the FCA
If your FCA lawsuit is successful, you may be eligible for a monetary award. Specifically, successful whistleblowers are entitled to up to 30% of the amount recovered by the government, legal fees, and case expenses.
Begin Your FCA Lawsuit Today
If you have knowledge that a person or entity has committed fraud against the U.S. government, you may be entitled to compensation. However, you need to act fast. The FCA is a “first to file” statute, which means that only the whistleblower who first reports the fraud to the government is entitled to a whistleblower reward. Therefore, if you have information that may help the government recover funds that were fraudulently obtained, please contact our False Claims Act attorney as soon as possible to give yourself the best chance of financial compensation.
