Crime Rewards and Law Enforcement Tip Programs
Law enforcement agencies at every level — from local police to the FBI and the U.S. State Department — offer cash rewards for information that helps solve crimes, locate fugitives, or prevent terrorist attacks. The State Department's Rewards for Justice program offers up to $25 million for tips about terrorism financing. Crime Stoppers programs in thousands of cities offer $1,000–$10,000 for tips about local violent crimes. These programs collectively pay millions of dollars annually, and most tips can be submitted anonymously. You don't need to witness a crime directly — tips about a suspect's location, identity, or associates all qualify.
Law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, and local level offer cash rewards for information leading to the arrest or conviction of individuals wanted for serious crimes. The FBI's most wanted programs offer up to $1 million per individual for violent crimes and terrorism. Fugitive Safe Surrender and Crime Stoppers programs operate in hundreds of cities, offering smaller rewards — typically $1,000–$10,000 — for local fugitives and unsolved violent crimes. These rewards are paid from law enforcement budgets and private donations and are awarded only when a tip directly leads to an arrest or conviction.
How to report a tip and claim a crime reward
Identify a specific wanted person or unsolved crime with an active reward posted in our database. Note the offering agency and the reward amount.
Contact the relevant agency through the official channel listed in the reward posting — typically a dedicated tip line, the FBI tip portal (tips.fbi.gov), or local Crime Stoppers.
Provide specific, verifiable information. Vague tips do not qualify for rewards. Include details about the subject's current location, daily routine, associates, or identifying information.
Request a tip reference number if the program allows it, so your submission can be tracked and linked to you if a reward is later paid.
Do not attempt to apprehend a fugitive yourself. Law enforcement rewards are for information only.
Follow up with the agency after a reasonable time if your tip led to an arrest. Reward payment processes can take weeks to months.