SEC Whistleblower FAQ

Reporting securities violations to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) isn’t simple, which is why many whistleblowers enlist the services of an SEC whistleblower lawyer.

Below, we’ve outlined some common questions about SEC whistleblowing. For the answers to your questions, give our firm a call.

Can I blow the whistle and remain anonymous?

Yes. You are able to remain anonymous with a qualified lawyer’s help, even to the SEC. Your identity may need to be revealed to the SEC in order to issue you a whistleblower award, but we can help maintain your anonymity through the investigation process.

Can the company I report retaliate against me?

Legally, companies are not allowed to retaliate against you if it is revealed that you blew the whistle on a securities fraud issue within the company. Acts of retaliation would include firing, demoting, or suspending you. Retaliation also applies if your employer creates a hostile work environment for you after discovering that you made a report with the SEC.

Do whistleblowers have rights?

Yes. All whistleblowers have the right to protection from retaliation under federal law. In addition, all eligible whistleblowers have the right to collect a reward for providing information that can lead to enforceable action against the company violating securities laws—under specific parameters.

How does the SEC determine whistleblower awards?

An SEC whistleblower must meet specific criteria in order to qualify for an award. Some of these include providing an original tip, voluntarily making the report, and the information leading the SEC to be able to enforce and collect sanctions that exceed $1,000,000. From there, whistleblowers can receive between 10 and 30 percent of the funds collected from SEC-imposed sanctions.

How do I know the SEC will investigate my tip?

The SEC investigates tips that contain specific and credible information. The more details you can provide about the ongoing scheme, the better chance you have of the SEC passing your tip on to its investigative team. If you can provide the names of individuals involved in the fraud or supply non-public evidence, the chances of your tip being investigated will increase.

Contact an SEC Whistleblower Lawyer

If you have additional questions about becoming a whistleblower or believe you have information about a securities violation that could lead to a substantial award, speak with an SEC whistleblower lawyer at Meissner Associates. Give us a call at 1-866-764-3100 or fill out the form below to schedule a case evaluation today.