18 U.S.C. § 495 – Forgery of Contracts, Deeds, or Powers of Attorney to Defraud the United States
This law makes it a federal crime to forge or use false documents to obtain money or property from the United States.
This statute applies to forged or falsified writings used to secure federal funds, benefits, or payments. It covers a broad range of documents, including deeds, contracts, receipts, certificates, orders, and powers of attorney.
The focus is on documents intended to deceive the United States or its officers in connection with a claim, payment, or financial transaction.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly and for the purpose of obtaining money or property from the United States:
- Falsely make, alter, forge, or counterfeit a deed, contract, power of attorney, receipt, certificate, or similar writing
- Create or alter documents to enable themselves or another person to receive federal funds
A person also violates this statute if they knowingly and with intent to defraud the United States:
- Utter or publish a forged or counterfeit writing as true
- Transmit or present a forged or altered document to a federal office or officer
- Use such a document in support of a federal claim or account
Penalties.
A conviction under this statute can result in a fine, up to 10 years in federal prison, or both.
If you’re being investigated or charged with forgery involving federal money or claims, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our criminal defense attorneys to discuss your options.
