What are the penalties under the False Claims Act (FCA) for filing a false claim?

The penalties under the False Claims Act (FCA) for filing a false claim include treble damages plus a specific monetary penalty that ranges from $5,500 to $11,000 for each violation. This means that if a false claim is proven, the government can seek three times the amount of the damages resulting from the fraud, along with the aforementioned penalty. The rationale behind this structure is to deter fraudulent claims and provide a financial incentive for whistleblowers to report misconduct.

The range for the monetary penalty reflects adjustments that occur over time due to inflation and administrative costs, ensuring that the penalties remain relevant and effective in discouraging false claims. The treble damages reflect a significant punitive measure aimed at dissuading individuals from engaging in fraudulent activities related to government funds.

Other options present different damage calculations or penalty amounts that do not accurately represent the provisions outlined in the False Claims Act. This makes the correct answer particularly relevant for understanding the legal and financial implications of filing false claims under the law.