Iowa Code § 29C.26: Referrals — fraud — benefits inappropriately obtained.

1. Following a review of an applicant’s or recipient’s eligibility to receive moneys under section 29C.20A or 29C.20B, the department may refer cases of suspected fraud, misrepresentation, inadequate documentation relating to initial or continued eligibility, or benefits being otherwise inappropriately obtained, along with any supportive information, to the department of inspections, appeals, and licensing for review.

2. In cases of substantiated fraud, misrepresentation, or benefits being otherwise inappropriately obtained, the state shall review all appropriate legal options including but not limited to removal of a recipient from other public assistance programs and garnishment of wages or state income tax refunds until the department recovers an amount equal to the benefits fraudulently claimed.

3. The department may refer suspected cases of fraud, misrepresentation, or inadequate documentation relating to initial or continued eligibility, or suspected cases of benefits being otherwise inappropriately obtained, to appropriate state entities for review of such issues in other programs providing public benefits.