Alexandra Burke's mother is being investigated for suspected benefit fraud.
Melissa Bell, the former Soul II Soul singer, is being probed after her daughter won The X Factor prize of a £1million recording deal, says a report in the Sun.
Melissa has strongly denied allegations that she has been paid for gigs while claiming benefits worth £17,344 a year.
She said: "They're idiots -- I'll sue them!"
It is understood that investigators have contacted every venue where Melissa has performed within the last six months.
The mother of four gets a monthly £258 disability living allowance and £124 a week income support.
Melissa said: "I couldn't believe it. But I rang the council and they admitted I am under suspicion of benefit fraud. I'm outraged.
"They think Alex is supporting me. If she's giving me money I have to declare it -- but she hasn't."
She continued: "She's not allowed to live in my house as that would cancel my benefits, but she's not. It looks like I'm a fraud because Alex came and stayed with her sick mum a few days over Christmas."
Melissa maintained that any money that she was given for performing was passed on to the Kidney Association.
She added: "The council can come and search me right now....I'm really upset and alarmed."
Islington Council has reportedly refused to comment.
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