Now the government is taking another step to stop the criminal economy. The Social Insurance Agency is proposed to be able to freeze funds in order to recover incorrect payments through a so-called payment guarantee. The proposal is now being sent to the Council on Legislation.
When incorrect payments are linked to organized crime, authorities often have difficulty recovering the claims because the assets are quickly transferred to others before the decision has gained legal force.
The measure to freeze funds is only intended to be used if there is a significant risk that the funds will be transferred or taken out of the country, or if it involves large sums. The Social Insurance Agency will be able to apply on behalf of its own authority and the Pensions Agency.
The Tax Agency has had the same tool in place for several years.
The legislative changes are proposed to come into effect on March 1, 2025.
