Fraud and Abuse in the Social Security Disability System

The Social Security Disability (SSD) program is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to physical or mental health conditions. The program offers vital support to millions of Americans, however, its often susceptible to fraud and abuse.

Fraud in the SSD system undermines the integrity of the program, depletes taxpayer dollars, and can delay or deny benefits to those who truly depend on them most. It’s important to understand the scope of fraud and abuse, as well as the measures being taken to prevent it to ensure the SSD program remains effective and accessible for those who need it most.

According to the Social Security Administration, Social Security fraud exists when a person intentionally gives false information to receive benefits and payments. This comprises making false statements, misrepresenting information, or concealing important facts. In the context of our programs, information is “material” when it could influence our determination on entitlement or eligibility to benefits under the Social Security Act.

Examples of Social Security fraud include:

• Bribing SSA employees
• Impersonating SSA employees
• Making false statements on claims
• Buying or selling Social Security cards
• Misusing benefits (by a representative payee)
• Working under someone else’s Social Security number (SSN)
• Filing claims under another person’s SSN
• Concealing facts or events that affect eligibility for benefits
• Failing to notify the agency of the death of a beneficiary and continuing to receive the deceased person’s benefits
• Identity theft

Social Security is responsible for fighting fraud at the national, regional, and local levels to protect and serve the American public. They work closely with the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), responsible for investigating allegations of fraud related to Social Security programs, operations, and employees.

The OIG works together with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of Social Security fraud, with the authority to conduct criminal investigations, make arrests, and bring criminal and civil prosecutions.

Although its typically rare, Social Security Disability fraud does occur, and there are strict penalties for those caught. In fact, disability fraud is a criminal offense that includes 5 – 10 years in prison and a fine upwards of $250,000.

Reporting SSD Fraud

If you suspect that someone may have committed fraud, waste, or abuse against Social Security, please submit a report with as many details as possible online at oig.ssa.gov or contact SSA’s OIG fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271. You can choose to report your file anonymously. By reporting this SSD fraud you are protecting taxpayers, helping the SSA, and maintaining fairness to those disabled individuals that truly need benefits. You can also watch this video “How to Report Social Security Fraud” for more details about the fraud referral process.

Protect Yourself Against SSD Fraud

Individuals need to be aware of how they can protect themselves from fraudulent schemes, particularly when working with third parties, such as lawyers or representatives. When applying for SSD benefits, choose an attorney or representative who has a reputation for ethical conduct and avoid those who promise guaranteed results or push you to exaggerate symptoms or falsify medical records.

The most effective way to avoid potential fraud charges is to be truthful on your SSD application. Provide as many accurate details as possible about your medical history, income, and other pertinent information. Of course, if in the process you notice any suspicious or illegal behavior related to SSD claims, such as individuals misrepresenting their disabilities or encouraging fraudulent activity, report it to the SSA or the OIG.

If you need help throughout the SSDI benefits process, you can depend on Lowery Law Group at info@lowerylegal.com or call (843) 991-0733. There is no fee for a free consultation regarding your claim. Lowery Law Group is experienced in handling cases in South Carolina as well as Georgia.