The U.S. Department of Justice recently announced that False Claims Act settlements and judgments exceeded $6.8 billion in fiscal year 2025, marking one of the most successful years in the program’s history. Qui tam suits were responsible for more than $5.3 billion of the $6.8 billion in reported settlements and judgments. For those who suspect fraud against the government, this record-breaking figure sends a powerful message: whistleblowers are making a real difference, and the government is committed to holding fraudsters accountable.
Why This Matters to Potential Whistleblowers
Behind these billions in recoveries are courageous individuals who stepped forward to expose fraud. Under the False Claims Act's qui tam provisions, whistleblowers—also called relators—can file lawsuits on behalf of the government and receive a percentage of any recovered funds. These rewards typically range from 15% to 30% of the total recovery, meaning whistleblowers in 2025 collectively received hundreds of millions of dollars for their efforts.
The record recoveries demonstrate that the government takes fraud seriously and actively pursues cases brought by whistleblowers. Healthcare fraud, defense contractor fraud, and pandemic relief fraud continue to generate substantial recoveries, but fraud occurs across virtually every industry that receives federal funds or submits claims to government programs.
Common Types of Fraud Uncovered by Whistleblowers
Whistleblowers have exposed fraud in numerous sectors, including:
Healthcare: Billing for services never provided, unnecessary medical procedures, kickbacks for patient referrals, and upcoding to inflate reimbursements from Medicare and Medicaid.
Government Contracting: Overcharging for goods and services, providing defective products, failing to meet contract specifications, and making false certifications about compliance, including compliance with cybersecurity requirements.
Pandemic Relief Programs: Fraudulent PPP loans, EIDL fraud, and false claims for COVID-19 testing or treatment reimbursements.
Pharmaceuticals: Off-label marketing, paying kickbacks to doctors or pharmacies, and price manipulation.
Tariff and Customs Avoidance. Misrepresentations regarding the type of goods imported or an item’s country of origin, disguising items to evade duties.
Protections and Rewards for Whistleblowers
The False Claims Act provides robust protections for those who report fraud. Whistleblowers are protected from retaliation, including termination, demotion, harassment, or discrimination. If retaliation occurs, whistleblowers can pursue remedies including reinstatement, double back pay, and special damages.
Beyond protection, the financial rewards can be life-changing. In cases resulting in significant recoveries, whistleblowers have received tens of millions of dollars. Even in smaller cases, awards frequently reach six or seven figures.
Taking the First Step
If you have knowledge of fraud against the government, you may have a valid whistleblower claim. The key is acting promptly and working with experienced legal counsel. Whistleblower cases are complex, requiring detailed evidence and focused legal strategy. The first person to file a claim on a particular fraud scheme typically has priority, making timing critical.
Our firm has extensive experience representing whistleblowers across industries. We handle cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we recover funds on your behalf. Your consultation is confidential, and we'll help you understand your options, potential rewards, and the protections available to you.
The $6.8 billion recovered in 2025 proves that whistleblowers are essential partners in fighting fraud. If you know something, say something. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you make a difference—and potentially secure significant financial compensation for your courage.
