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Where To Report Waste
Fraud, Abuse, Or Retaliation
Where To Report Waste Fraud, Abuse, Or Retaliation

Whistleblower-FAQ

Do I need to disclose my identity?

No, complainants do not have to disclose their name or contact information in order to file a complaint. Agencies will safeguard complainant identity in accordance with Federal law, including but not limited to Section 7 of the Inspector General Act, as amended. Complainants can:

Choose to remain completely anonymous (difficult for retaliation claim): The complainant does not consent to the agency providing identifying information to the agency. If a complainant chooses to remain anonymous, the agency cannot obtain additional information on the allegation or provide information as to any steps taken as a result of the complaint.

Partial Consent or Confidential - disclose information to agency but not outside the agency: Only those with a need to know are privy to information in the complaint. Confidential status allows further communication between the agency and the complainant after the original complaint is received. However, this status could prevent any agency from taking further action on a complaint.

Full Consent - disclose identity to the agency and outside the agency: A complainant is providing permission to disclose their identity and information about the complaint through its processing. Choosing this option means a complainant has provided those persons with a need to know (within or outside of the agency) to facilitate the exchange of information related to their complaint.

What to Expect After Filing a Complaint

  • Office of Inspector General staff will look at your complaint and may refer it for investigation.
  • An investigator may contact you for additional information if your complaint is not anonymous.

You may contact the agency OIG Whistleblower Protection Coordinator for additional information. This contact information is found on the agency OIG’s website.