The Bureau of Special Investigations (BSI) in Massachusetts, operating under the Office of the State Auditor, is responsible for investigating public assistance fraud to ensure that taxpayer dollars are effectively managed and allocated to those in need. The BSI's investigative authority covers programs administered by the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), the Department of Children and Families (DCF), and the Division of Medical Assistance (MassHealth). Although the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) is not included in the BSI's enabling statute, the BSI collaborates with EEC through a Memorandum of Understanding. The BSI has three investigative units and works with various state and federal agencies to combat fraud, with cases often leading to administrative actions, civil recoveries, or criminal prosecutions.

In the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, the BSI investigated 1,241 cases, identifying fraud in 172 of them, which resulted in overpayment calculations totaling $2,465,430. The report highlights specific assistance types with identified fraud, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid, among others. The BSI also reported civil recoveries amounting to $485,984. The report emphasizes the ongoing nature of restitution settlements and the complexities involved in managing collections related to fraud cases.