A woman illegally claimed £16,000 benefits after failing to declare that she had a partner.
Emma Grimes received income support, council tax benefit and housing benefit on the basis that she was a single parent.
Mark Knowles, prosecuting at Lincoln Crown Court, said Grimes told the authorities that she had separated from her partner but in November 2012 evidence came to light that she was not a single parent.
“There were numerous indications that they were living together as man and wife.
“Surveillance was carried out and he was seen coming to the house in his car.”
The man was seen to arrive with shopping and also to collect Grimes’ children from school.
Mr Knowles added: “She admitted she had allowed him to wash at her address and he had visited. Later she notified the department he was living with her.”
Grimes (31), of Spalding Common, Spalding, admitted two charges of dishonestly failing to notify a change in circumstances affecting her entitlement to benefits. She was given a 12-month community order with 150 hours of unpaid work.
Liz Harte, defending, said Grimes has commenced paying back the money and £800 has already been returned.
