What Is Workers' Compensation Fraud?

Workers' compensation fraud can be defined in many ways, from knowingly filing a fraudulent insurance claim against a company to understating payroll information for a lower premium. The specific details, costs, and punishments for committing workers' compensation fraud vary for each specific case. In order to be fully informed, be sure to consult an expert in the subject.

Types of Worker's Comp Fraud

Workers' compensation fraud can be committed by a variety of individuals and companies such as employees, large and small businesses, insurance companies and doctors. There are three types of workers' compensation fraud recognized by the New York State Office of the Inspector General and they are:

• Employer Fraud
• Employee Fraud 
• Health Care Provider Fraud

Common examples of fraudulent activity involving worker's compensation insurance include misrepresenting information about employees, billing or invoicing for treatments that were never received and employees exaggerating a medical condition.

Potential Penalties and Convictions

The penalties, convictions, and charges associated with workers' comp fraud vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the situation. In New York, the penalties for this crime are enforced by NY WKC Law Section 114 and can be imposed on employers, employees, insurance carriers and more. Those who intentionally misrepresent or deliberately make false statements in regards to workers' compensation insurance claims are at risk of being charged with a Class E Felony which can result in jail time, fines and/or restitution.

An expert on the topic is able to provide you with the necessary information and steps to take. In order to properly file a worker's compensation claim or to make a complaint against a company that you believe may be involved in the crime, it is best to consult with a professional before taking any action.

Were you injured while working or need help filing a workers' compensation claim?

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White Plains
Markhoff & Mittman, P.C.
120 Bloomingdale Rd #401
White Plains, NY 10605
914-946-1452

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Brooklyn, NY 11201
718-509-3599

Long Island
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1778 Hempstead Turnpike
East Meadow, NY 11554
516-267-6873

NYC
Markhoff & Mittman, P.C.
1825 Park Ave #901
New York, NY 10035
212-897-9004