In a recent Q&A published on February 27, 2026, U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, made clear that fighting fraud is not a political issue. It is a civic one.
In the piece, Grassley outlines the federal government’s escalating response to fraud across public benefit programs, the creation of a new Department of Justice Fraud Enforcement Division, and the ongoing threat of elder financial exploitation. His message is straightforward: every dollar stolen from a federal program is a dollar taken from the American people.
At Teller Law, we share that conviction. Whether you have witnessed fraud against a government program, been the victim of financial exploitation, or faced retaliation for speaking up, you have legal options, and we are here to help you understand them. Teller Law today to schedule a free review with an experienced whistleblower attorney.
What Does It Mean To Say Fighting Fraud Is Civics 101?
The phrase comes from U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley, the long-time champion of the federal False Claims Act. His argument is straightforward: protecting the public treasury from fraud is not a partisan political act; it is a basic obligation of self-government. Every generation of Americans inherits the responsibility to ensure that public dollars reach their intended purpose.
As America marks the 250th anniversary of its independence, that obligation is as urgent as ever. Federal programs funding housing, nutrition, healthcare, and elder services are prime targets for sophisticated fraud schemes. When those schemes succeed, real Americans, including the elderly, the vulnerable, and every taxpayer, pay the price.
Why Did The Federal Government Create A New Fraud Enforcement Division?
In early 2026, following the exposure of massive public benefits fraud in Minnesota and other states, the Trump administration announced a new fraud enforcement division within the Department of Justice. The division is tasked with developing national enforcement priorities to identify, disrupt, and dismantle sophisticated fraud schemes across the country.
As Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman, Senator Grassley led the confirmation hearing for the nominee to lead this new division. The nominee pledged to work with Congress, inspectors general, and state partners across party lines to restore faith in taxpayer-funded programs.
If you know about significant fraud against the Federal Government, there is likely a whistleblower reward program available to you.
What Is The False Claims Act, And How Does It Protect Whistleblowers?
The False Claims Act, sometimes called Lincoln’s Law, dates back to the Civil War. In 1986, Senator Grassley updated it with powerful whistleblower incentives, making it the federal government’s single most effective tool for fighting fraud. Since those amendments, the False Claims Act has recovered $85 billion in fraudulent government payments.
Under the False Claims Act, the first whistleblower to report fraud against the government may be entitled to:
- A percentage of the government’s recovery (typically 15 to 30 percent)
- Protection against retaliation by their employer
- Back pay, reinstatement, and legal remedies if fired or demoted for reporting fraud
- Confidential legal representation throughout the process
Whistleblowers were responsible for more than $5.3 billion of last year’s record recovery. If you know of fraud being committed against a federal program, a fraud attorney in Seattle can help you understand whether you qualify to file a qui tam lawsuit.
If you have witnessed billing fraud, Medicare abuse, or misuse of federal funds, you may have a whistleblower claim and the right to a financial reward. Call Teller Law at (206) 324-8969 for a review of your situation.
What Is Elder Financial Fraud, And Why Is It Called The Crime Of The 21st Century?
Individuals age 60 and older are robbed of an estimated $28 billion or more every year in the United States alone. The Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act (i.e., EAPPA) created enhanced protections and dedicated enforcement resources specifically targeting elder financial exploitation.
Common forms of elder financial fraud include:
- Medicare and Medicaid billing fraud
- Fraudulent investment schemes targeting retirees
- Exploitation by caregivers, family members, or fiduciaries
- Theft or misuse of Social Security, pension, and benefit payments
- Predatory lending and deed fraud targeting seniors
- Phone scams impersonating government agencies such as the IRS or Social Security Administration
If you believe an elderly person in your life has been targeted, or if you are a senior who suspects you have been victimized, legal remedies may be available. Time matters in these cases, and early legal intervention is critical. Here, the first step is likely to report to law enforcement. After that, it may make sense to call Teller law in some cases.
Employees who witness fraud sometimes face intimidation or threats from employers. Under the False Claims Act and other federal whistleblower statutes, retaliation is illegal. If you have been fired, demoted, harassed, or threatened for reporting wrongdoing, you have legal rights and likely a case. Call Teller Law at (206) 324-8969 to learn more about your options for pursuing justice.
What Types Of Fraud Cases Does Teller Law Handle?
As a whistleblower law firm with decades of experience, Teller Law represents individuals in a broad range of fraud-related matters, including:
- False Claims Act and Qui Tam Actions – suing on behalf of the government and sharing in the recovery whenever there is fraud against the government
- Medicare and Medicaid Fraud – healthcare billing abuse, upcoding, phantom billing
- Government Contract Fraud – defense, construction, and procurement fraud
- Whistleblower Retaliation – helping protect employees who report wrongdoing
- Mortgage and Securities Fraud – representing victims of fraudulent schemes
Whether you are a witness, a victim, or an employee who has blown the whistle, our team can advise you on the best path forward, including whether you qualify for federal whistleblower protections and a potential financial reward.
Should I Report Fraud On My Own, Or Do I Need An Attorney?
Navigating a fraud claim, especially a False Claims Act qui tam lawsuit, without legal representation is extremely difficult and can jeopardize both your case and your safety. Here is why an attorney matters:
- Qui tam lawsuits are filed under seal to protect your identity during the government’s investigation
- The process involves strict procedural deadlines and evidentiary requirements
- Prosecutors evaluate cases partly on the quality of legal submissions; a strong attorney makes a meaningful difference
- Negotiating your share of the government’s recovery benefits from experienced counsel
- If your employer retaliates, you will need immediate legal protection
Teller Law offers a free case review for fraud claims. You can speak confidentially with a whistleblower attorney, understand your options, and decide whether to proceed with no cost and no obligation. Call us today at (206) 324-8969 – or better, contact us through the website for faster response.
What Should I Do Right Now If I Suspect Fraud?
If you suspect fraud, whether you are a current or former employee, a patient, a contractor, or a concerned citizen, here are the most important immediate steps:
- Document everything. Preserve emails, invoices, and records you have lawful access to without removing anything improperly.
- Do not confront the wrongdoers. This can compromise your case and put you at personal risk.
- Consult an attorney before reporting. Filing through proper legal channels protects you and maximizes your potential recovery.
- Act promptly. False Claims Act cases have a statute of limitations and delays can forfeit your rights.
The sooner you get legal guidance, the better your position. Teller Law is here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us to schedule your case review today.