President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance announced a $25 million whistleblower initiative on Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the Oval Office that would pay cash for tips about fraud against the federal government.
The Justice Department’s Fraud Whistleblower Incentive Program offers a 1% commission for information that produces a successful conviction, with tips submitted through America.gov/fraud. Program materials described awards of up to $30,000, while Trump said there was no limit and that payouts would apply only if the money is recovered.
Trump said he would personally decide who receives payments and described himself as the arbitrator of the decisions. The Justice Department website states that the department has sole discretion over awards, leaving Trump’s formal role unclear.
The first $10,000 payment went to conservative YouTuber Nick Shirley, who attended the event after his videos earlier in 2026 accusing Somali-run child-care centers in Minnesota of fraud drew wide attention. His claims were largely debunked, though investigations continued and one woman pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy to defraud the United States.
Officials said the effort builds on the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud led by Vance and created by Trump in March. Vance said fraud must stop, is stopping, and tipsters can now share in rewards for helping end it.