Step 2:  Frequently Asked Questions

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The following questions provide information about hotline policy and procedures that you should review before you file a complaint:

1.  Question:  Who may use the Hotline? 

Answer:  Anyone may file a hotline complaint.

2.  Question:  What issues should you report to the Hotline? 

Answer:  The IG investigates matters involving:

• Abuse of Title or Position

• Bribes/Kickbacks/Acceptance of Gratuities

• Conflicts of Interest

• Ethics Violations

• False Official Statements/Claims

• Fraud

• Gifts (Improper receipt or giving)

• Improper Referral for Mental Health Evaluations

• Mismanagement/Organization Oversight (Significant Cases)

• Misuse of Official Time, Gov’t Property, Position and Public Office

• Political Activities

• Purchase Card Abuse

• Reprisal (Military Whistleblower Protection)

• Safety/Public Health (Substantial/Specific)

• Systemic Problems

• Time and Attendance (Significant Violations)

• Travel Card Abuse

• Travel Fraud (TDY and TAD)

• Waste (Gross)

Naval Inspectors General reserve the right to decline to investigate any matter brought to our attention.  Generally, the Naval Inspector General refers complaints to the local IG for review and resolution.

3.  Question:  What other avenues of redress are available to resolve complaints?

We have provided a list of common complaints presented to Inspectors General.  Many of the issues on the list do not fall under the purview of the Inspector General, so we have included referral information to assist you in determining the best method to address your issue.  We suggest you review the list before filing a complaint with an IG.  Common Hotline Complaints. 

4.  Question:   How do you submit a hotline complaint? 

Answer:  We encourage you to submit the allegation(s) in writing by e-mail, fax, letter, or using the online complaint form.  Our experience has shown that written complaints are more organized, provide more details, and are less emotional. 

We will evaluate your complaint and request more information, if necessary.  Keep in mind, if we conduct an investigation, you will be interviewed and you will be able to provide additional information and documents at that time.

We have included a list of IGs on this website with contact information to include phone numbers, fax numbers and addresses.  Review the list to determine which is the appropriate office to submit your complaint.  If available, we have provided the IG's email address and website.

5.  Question:  Do you have to identify yourself? 

Answer.  No. You may request confidentiality or anonymity. 

You have two options when you request your identity remain confidential:

• Release your identity to the IG with the understanding that it will not be released to the investigator, or
• Identify yourself with the understanding that only the IG and the investigator will know who you are.

If you request confidentiality, we will make every effort to protect your identity from disclosure; however, we cannot guarantee confidentiality since disclosure may be required during the investigation or in the course of corrective action.

If you file your complaint anonymously, we will not know who you are.  As such, we will not be able to contact you to request additional information or to give you the results of the investigation.

You may consider establishing an e-mail account using an internet service provider to submit an anonymous complaint; however, we will not respond to anonymous complaints submitted in this way since we have no way of verifying who you are.

6.  Question:   Does the IG take telephone complaints?

Answer:   We will provide you assistance if you contact an IG by telephone.  If you wish to submit a complaint, we will suggest you submit your complaint and any supporting documentation in writing.  Based on experience, we have found this to be the best way to serve you.  If the IG conducts an investigation, you will be contacted for an interview.

7.  Question:  Is there a time limit to file a complaint? 

Generally, you should submit your complaint within 90 days of the date the alleged wrongdoing occurred.  However, we will consider complaints over 90 days old if you can demonstrate you were unable to meet the time requirement due to extraordinary circumstances or unforeseen delays.

8.  Question:  What can you expect when you file a hotline complaint? 

Answer: 

• An investigator will evaluate your complaint and determine if the matter warrants investigation or if we should refer your complaint to other authorities or the command for a response.

• We will send a confirmation letter to let you know what action was taken on your complaint if you provide your name and address.  We are unable to notify anonymous complainants of the results of an investigation if we do not have an e-mail address.

• Don't expect instant action on your request... be patient.

9.  Question:  What does the IG expect from someone who makes a complaint to the hotline? 

Answer:  The IG expects you to provide answers to the questions listed on Step 3.  Remember, the more information you provide the IG, the better he/she can assist you.  Be prepared to provide supporting evidence.

10.  Question:  Do we guarantee we will conduct an investigation? 

Answer:  No.  Generally, the Naval Inspector General and the local IGs do not accept a complaint if:

11.  Question:  How long does it take to investigate a complaint?  

12.  Question:  How do you determine the status of your complaint or obtain a copy of the report?