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c. Arizona Auditor General’s Office. Audits LIHEAP in its audit of program expenditures in accordance with the Single Audit Act of 1984. E. Welfare Fraud Prevention and Penalty 1. LIHEAP adjudicators will take multiple steps to detect and prevent instances of Welfare Fraud. Specifically, adjudicators will: a. Review the energy bill and other associated documents and evidence for signs of fraud; b. In cases where potential Welfare Fraud is detected, document the suspected nature of the fraud and any relevant information (e.g., known facts, statements, witnesses, or other knowledge possessed by the employee regarding the matter); and c. Take the appropriate fraud management action(s) according to the CCSD Error and Fraud Management Policy. 2. Nothing in this Policy shall limit an Employee or Contractor’s ability and duty to assist in the application or navigation process. Employees and Contractors will always treat clients with dignity and respect, regardless of whether a client has committed or is suspected of fraud, and will exercise discretion in any interaction with clients who are subject to fraud management procedures. 3. Applicants are required to attest they are not receiving benefits under LIHEAP for energy or Energy Utility expenses already paid by any other assistance program. Providing false statements may be punishable by law and/or result in denial or disqualification from LIHEAP benefits. 4. If DES determines that an Applicant has committed an intentional program violation or defrauded LIHEAP, the Applicant will be subject to denial of LIHEAP benefits, disqualification from the Program, and criminal prosecution. a. Applicants are subject to 12-month disqualification for a 1st violation, 24-month disqualification for a 2nd violation, and permanent disqualification for a 3rd violation. 5. When Welfare Fraud is detected, external parties shall: a. Call the DES Fraud Hotline at (800) 251-2436; or b. Complete the online form: Suspected Fraud Report. 37 of 41