On January 21st, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice settled the first alleged claim under the False Claims Act. Slidebelts, Inc., a company based in El Dorado, California, settled the case for $100,000 in damages and penalties due to providing false claims under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). As more whistleblowers disclose suspected fraud from businesses applying to receive PPP funds, it is suspected that additional cases will follow soon.
“This is a critical time for our nation’s small businesses,” said SBA OIG’s Western Region Special Agent in Charge Weston King in an official press release. “Greed has no place in SBA programs that are intended to provide assistance to the nation’s small businesses struggling with the pandemic’s challenges. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and pursuit of justice.”
The Paycheck Protection Program was designed to provide necessary relief to small businesses during the pandemic, not as an opportunity for large companies to take advantage of government relief.
Small businesses struggle to stay afloat in the pandemic. As a result, the Paycheck Protection Program was created to protect the businesses that make our community a home. In January, the Small Business Administration (SBA) opened the application portal for the next round of PPP funding, and many fear that businesses will take advantage of the program by creating fraudulent claims in order to receive the loans.
Speak out if you know or suspect businesses that are committing PPP fraud
Shub Law Firm is investigating cases of PPP fraud. We believe only businesses that truly deserve PPP funds should get them. In order to combat PPP fraud, we invite those who know or suspect a business that has committed PPP fraud to contact us. By sharing your experience, you can help make sure funds are going to the small businesses that need necessary aid during these challenging times, not greedy businesses trying to make an extra dime. If you suspect that certain businesses are committing PPP fraud, contact us today to take action. All communications with our firm will remain entirely confidential, and our team of experienced litgators are here to help.
Contact us today for more information
While these times are truly unprecedented, you can play an active part in helping. Sharing your experience can ensure that the Paycheck Protection Program benefits the small businesses who need it for survival. If you or someone you know believes a business is creating fraudulent claims to receive the funding, please contact us today for a free consultation. We at Shub Law specialize in consumer protection lawsuits, and have a proven record of fighting for justice. Contact us now via email at leads@shublawyers.com or give us a call at 856-772-7200.
