Fraud Information
Fraud Information
The Worcester Housing Authority (WHA) is committed to ensuring that federal and state housing resources are used appropriately and fairly. While the vast majority of our residents comply with program rules and requirements, a small number engage in activities that violate federal and state regulations, thereby undermining the integrity of Public Housing and the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. Housing fraud is a serious offense, and the WHA continues to strengthen its oversight, enforcement, and investigative efforts. This includes collaboration with federal and state agencies, enhanced data verification, and regular audits to detect unreported income, unauthorized occupants, falsified documents, and other forms of program abuse. When fraud is identified, WHA will take immediate and appropriate action.
This may include:
- Eviction from public housing
- Termination of Section 8 assistance
- Repayment agreements or civil recovery for overpaid subsidies
- Referral to federal or state authorities, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Inspector General (HUD-OIG) and the District Attorney’s Office, for potential criminal prosecution.
The Worcester Housing Authority (WHA) is committed to ensuring that our Public Housing and Section 8 programs remain fair, equitable, and accessible to the families who rely on them. To protect these programs, the WHA reviews information from a wide range of sources whenever potential violations are reported. These sources may include:
- Landlords
- Anonymous letters or tips
- Other government agencies
- Conflicting information found in a participant’s file
- Individuals such as former partners, family members, neighbors, friends, or employers
- Public records, including newspaper articles
- Arrest reports
Our goal is not to punish but to preserve the integrity of the programs that serve thousands of residents across our community.
Examples of Identifiable Forms of Housing Fraud
- Unreported or Underreported Income
A resident works a second job but does not report it during annual re-certification, resulting in a lower rent payment and higher subsidy than they are entitled to receive. - Unauthorized Household Member
Allowing individuals to live in the unit without approval from the housing authority. - Subletting or Renting Out the Unit
Leasing all or part of the subsidized unit to someone else, including through short-term rental platforms. - Misrepresentation of Household Composition
Claiming custody of a child or dependent who does not actually live in the unit.
If you are currently not meeting your responsibilities under the Public Housing or Section 8 Program, it is important to understand that violations are often discovered through routine checks, reports, and information-sharing. These violations can result in eviction, termination of assistance, and in some cases, referral for criminal prosecution.
However, you have the opportunity to take responsibility and correct the issue. We strongly encourage any participant with unreported activity to come forward voluntarily. By reporting the information yourself, the WHA can work with you to resolve the matter in a more constructive and timely way avoiding serious financial and criminal implications.
If you would like to report a change, please contact your Housing Manager or your Program Representative.
All complaints will be thoroughly reviewed and fully investigated by our Public Safety Department.