Individuals who voluntarily provide original information leading to a successful enforcement action above a monetary threshold may receive an award of a percentage of sanctions collected.
Voluntarily. Before any request from the agency directed to the individual or the employer.
Original information. Derived from independent knowledge or independent analysis, not already known to the agency, and not derived exclusively from public sources or from certain proceedings.
Led to. The information caused the opening of an examination or investigation, or significantly contributed to the success of an existing one.
Award range. A percentage band of collected sanctions, with the amount within the band determined by the significance of the information, assistance provided, law enforcement interest, and participation in internal compliance systems — the last of which is what rewards internal reporting first.
Reductions for culpability, for unreasonable delay in reporting, and for interference with internal compliance systems.
Ineligible persons including compliance and audit personnel in defined circumstances, subject to exceptions after a waiting period or where disclosure is needed to prevent substantial injury.
Anti-retaliation protections and a separate private action.
Impeding reporting through confidentiality agreements or severance terms is independently actionable.