Whistleblower Rights and Protection: What you need to know about Whistleblowing and your Rights


This website explains your rights and protection as a whistleblower based on federal statutes. It also lists most of the state whistleblower statutes that protect you.

Whistleblowing does not have to be a lonely experience. There are several types of whistleblower protections and rights. Below is a list of the types of rights protections available to you. For specifics, click on any of the links on the left for specific whistleblower laws relating to the type of whistleblowing activity. 

Rewards for Reporting Fraud

The federal and many state governments will actually pay you a significant monetary reward if you report fraud against the government, such as cheating against the military, Medicare, Homeland security fraud, or any of the more than 20 federal agencies. It even includes TARP or Bailout fraud, and income tax fraud. If you want to receive a reward for reporting fraud against the government or for reporting tax evasion or income tax fraud, see www.HowToReportFraud.com. Rewards as large as $100 million have been paid and the average is $1 million! Go to that website to find out if you are eligible.

Reinstatement to Your Job

If you were fired because you either blew the whistle or were about to report misconduct, you may be entitled to reinstatement. Many of the federal whistleblower laws require your employer to reinstate you if it fired you for whistleblowing. Most states also offer this type of right.

Anti-Retaliation

Most of the whistleblower laws prohibit an employer from retaliating against whistleblowers. Some even require employers to pay double damages if you were fired, passed over for promotion or retaliated in any manner.   Don't allow your employer to sensor you or other whistleblowers. Know your rights and be willing to stand up if you have been wronged.

State Whistleblower Rights

Most states have enacted whistleblower laws that offer additional protections. See the link on the left to see an outline of many of the state whistleblower statutes.

Disclaimer.
This website does not offer legal advice.  This website is for informational purposes only. There is no guarantee that this information is accurate or up to date. You should contact an attorney experienced with whistleblower rights and familiar with the specific statutes. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide you with advice regarding your particular case.