President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance announced a $25 million Fraud Whistleblower Incentive Program (WHIP) on Tuesday to encourage public reporting of suspected federal government fraud. The program offers up to $30,000 to individuals who submit tips leading to fraud convictions or significant federal enforcement actions, according to the White House.
The Justice Department will administer WHIP as part of the administration’s intensified effort to combat abuse of federal programs and taxpayer dollars. Trump established a task force on fraud elimination in March, placing Vance in charge. The announcement took place during a joint Oval Office event where Trump also presented a $10,000 check to Nick Shirley, a right-wing influencer whose video alleging fraudulent childcare centers in Minnesota drew government attention.
This initiative builds on Trump’s aggressive stance against government fraud, aiming to increase accountability and deter misuse of federal funds. The $25 million fund is designed to incentivize whistleblowers nationwide, complementing the task force’s ongoing investigations. The program’s scale and reward cap of $30,000 align with efforts to mobilize public participation in fraud detection, a strategy increasingly employed in federal enforcement.
The Fraud Whistleblower Incentive Program will be managed by the Justice Department, with tips submitted through fraud.gov. The administration’s task force continues to focus on identifying and prosecuting fraud cases, with the next public update expected after initial program results are evaluated.