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Missouri has developed an innovative in-house data tool designed to detect and prevent fraudulent activity within its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Known as the Fraud Finder Data Analytic Application, this system uses advanced data analytics to identify identity theft, application fraud, and other sophisticated forms of abuse, ensuring that benefits reach deserving recipients.
Federal Support and Cost Savings
Launched with a $415,025 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Fraud Finder has been highly effective.
As of late 2023, it had triggered over 1,000 investigations, uncovered $1.4 million in fraudulent claims, led to 37 criminal prosecutions, and saved the state approximately $2 million.
By June 2024, the project received the Governor’s Award for Quality and Productivity, honoring its success and impact.
How the System Works
The Missouri Department of Social Services’ Welfare Investigation Unit (WIU) collaborated with the Information Technology Services Division (ITSD) to build the system.
The app consists of five integrated modules that process thousands of data lines to detect high-probability fraud cases. It also features a user-friendly web interface that gives investigators quick access to case summaries and critical data.
Origins and Expansion
This system was inspired by a 2017 audit of data use in fraud detection. Although the state’s initial request for a USDA SNAP Fraud Framework Implementation Grant was denied in 2021, it successfully secured the funding in 2022. Since then, Missouri has become one of ten states to implement this fraud detection model.
Currently, Missouri’s SNAP program supports around 323,462 households per month, totaling $1.5 billion in benefits for FY2024.
This includes an average of $397 per household and $196 per person monthly—benefits that reach over 272,000 children.
Automation Improves Efficiency
Before the app, investigators mostly relied on tips or frontline staff to detect fraud. Today, eligibility workers can submit referrals digitally, and if a case meets set criteria, the system automatically launches an investigation. This reduces manual work and minimizes errors.
Scalability Beyond SNAP
Though the app was initially tailored for SNAP, it is built to accommodate additional modules for other benefits programs as fraud patterns evolve. The design ensures adaptability, positioning Missouri to tackle a broader range of public benefit fraud in the future.
Focusing on Those in Need
Richard Ferrari, Medicaid Audit and Compliance Director, highlighted the broader goal: “To date, we’ve identified $4.8 million in fraud that we’re working to recover.” Investigators have also referred 59 severe cases for prosecution.
Kerry Howren from ITSD reinforced the app’s mission: “Every time we stop fraudulent claims, we ensure those dollars go to families who truly need them. That’s our driving force.”
Missouri’s Fraud Finder application is a leading example of how technology and government innovation can secure public resources and maintain the integrity of vital support programs.
With continued success and expansion, it promises to enhance transparency and accountability in how taxpayer-funded assistance is distributed.