German MEP Christine Anderson (ESN) has asked the European Commission whether Member States can strengthen control mechanisms for family-related social benefits in cross-border situations, specifically regarding checks on habitual residence, schooling, gainful employment, and actual residence of dependent children. The question, submitted on 6 July 2026, targets administrative challenges that Member States face when verifying eligibility conditions for such benefits.
Anderson's parliamentary question contains three concrete asks: whether Member States can beef up control mechanisms, whether the Commission supports expanding digital administrative cooperation and cross-border data cross-checks, and whether the Commission has identified shortcomings in the current framework of administrative cooperation under Regulation (EC) No 883/2004. The question does not propose numerical targets or deadlines but seeks policy direction on tightening oversight.
Policy orientations from the question point toward greater administrative integration and digitalisation to combat potential fraud or errors in cross-border benefit claims. The MEP appears to advocate for stronger national enforcement tools and EU-level support for data sharing, reflecting a concern that current rules may be insufficient to prevent improper payments.
The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal whether it shares Anderson's concerns and is open to legislative or operational changes in the coordination of social security systems.