Social Security Disability Benefits Fraud

Submitted by Daniel on

Social Security Disability is a great benefit to those who truly need assistance due to a severe medical condition that prevents them from working for at least a year. However, sometimes people violate the law and fabricate a medical condition. Detecting a fraud in the Social Security system is a challenging process, but it is one that is necessary in order to maintain the integrity of the program. Determining whether someone is trying to take advantage of the system can be a difficult task, so before reporting an alleged fraud, consider the long journey ahead and all that goes into pinpointing fraudulent activity.

If you suspect someone is violating the law and is, in fact, fraudulently collecting disability benefits:

  • You need to know the reason why the person has been approved for benefits. If you are unable to determine this, research will need to be conducted to determine the truth before accusations are made.
  • You need to be aware that even though you see this person, you may not fully understand how the person’s impairment causes difficulties in daily living.
  • Some people receiving Social Security Disability suffer from mental or psychological disorders; these are not often easy to pinpoint as an outsider, and it may be difficult to judge how these conditions could interrupt the daily activities.

Typically you would have to know someone quite well in order to determine whether or not he or she is taking advantage of the system. Making strong accusations about someone receiving disability benefits is touchy ground, and something that you would not want to do lightly. When in doubt, do not be afraid to ask questions and look into the actions of the person. This can greatly help you determine where the truth lies. If you do still truly suspect someone of committing a fraudulent act, you should consider reporting that individual.

  • You should begin by contacting the toll-free Social Security Administration Fraud Hotline at (800) 269-0271.
  • Remember to provide as much information as you can. This includes the name, address, birth date, phone numbers, and Social Security number (if you know it) of the person suspected of committing fraud. The more information you provide, the sooner the investigation can begin. You should explain in detail to the SSA exactly in what type of fraudulent activity that you suspect this person to be involved.
  • Do not report anything that you do not know for sure. There are penalties for reporting false information, so stick with the facts.
  • Be certain that you understand the situation surrounding the person’s disability. Work may complicate the person’s condition more than you know. Some people are unable to work because they have to be medicated frequently throughout the day. There are also many individuals on disability who have to make trips to the hospital on a weekly or even daily basis. Other individuals may suffer from a psychological or mental condition that makes them appear quite normal, but they may, in reality, be struggling deeply on the inside. You must be fully aware of their circumstances to be able to judge if they are fraudulently collecting benefits.
  • If you feel uncomfortable telephoning regarding your concerns, you can complete an online fraud reporting form, or mail in your findings to the Fraud Hotline at:

Social Security Fraud Hotline
P.O. Box 17768
Baltimore, Maryland 21235

When working properly, the Social Security Disability program is a wonderful asset. To those individuals suffering and unable to work, or even waiting out the last stage of their lives, it is often a much-needed benefit. Unfortunately, some people take advantage of a good thing and use it improperly, as is the case with fraudulent behavior. While reporting this kind of activity is important, it is also a serious leap to take. Before you report your suspicions, you should realize that the most important thing is to know all the facts, and to move forward only if you are certain you have a definite case of fraudulent conduct.

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Blog comments

Elizabeth (not verified)

If I know a co-worker is

If I know a co-worker is committing SS fraud because she told me she was though I have no physical proof should I still report it?

Wed, 01/31/2018 - 16:37 Permalink
Eric

In reply to by Elizabeth (not verified)

Hi Elizabeth,

Hi Elizabeth,

You can report it, however the lack of physical evidence will make it harder for the SSA.

Thu, 02/01/2018 - 09:10 Permalink
Leeanna (not verified)

I know someone who is drawing

I know someone who is drawing $2450 per month which seems high compared to others with disabilities. I know each case different but is open records available for determination to understand it?

Thu, 02/01/2018 - 23:10 Permalink
anita (not verified)

What if two supposed half

What if two supposed half siblings sharing the same father receives survivors benefits 32 years ago, but recently as adults finds out that one of the half siblings is not the child of the father through DNA testing? Money was paid out then and now proof is in the pudding? Would that money have to be paid back?

Fri, 02/02/2018 - 14:33 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by anita (not verified)

Hi Anita,

Hi Anita,
The SSA may not require those benefits are repaid; they do not require survivors to be blood relatives of the deceased to be beneficiaries.

Tue, 02/06/2018 - 16:33 Permalink
Lauren (not verified)

What if you know someone who

What if you know someone who lives in South America for the last three years but been getting benefits in America and splitting it with the person who the actual victim lives with cause the victim is 81 yrs old and then the person in South America is neglecting the elder person

Sat, 02/03/2018 - 07:57 Permalink
David (not verified)

I know someone who is

I know someone who is receiving disability benefits, but also rents rooms in his home and has at times collected over $800 a month doing this. Does he or does he not have to report this to the SSA as extra income for the household?

Sat, 02/03/2018 - 11:03 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by David (not verified)

Hi David,

Hi David,
If they are receiving income-based benefits they may need to do so.

Tue, 02/06/2018 - 16:53 Permalink
Zachary Estep (not verified)

I know a guy his name is

I know a guy his name is and he just got his SSI and been bragging about it too every one.. Ok I under stand people getting SSI but how can get SSI and he works everyday gets paid cash under the table I have his case number I have pictures of him working... He mite need a check for being a dope head, cut his self out a tree back in 2014 and by 2016 he has been climbing again.... If you would like to contact me feel free to my number is like I said I have pictures with dates other people that can back this fraud up 100% I have his case number SSI number the amount of his back pay is waiting on.. If really needed this money to get a place to live it would be different but the only thing he is going to spend this money on will be drugs and for all the people out there that need SSI to live and get a home they should have this money not .. All does us move to friends to friends mooching off everyone els and he gets over 900 dollars a month and can't keep a pack of smokes plus he works every day.. Feel free to contact me any time for more info !!!

Mon, 02/05/2018 - 02:58 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Zachary Estep (not verified)

Hi Zachary,

Hi Zachary,
We are not affiliated with the SSA or the federal government and as such we have no authority to investigate or prosecute alleged fraud. You may want to contact the SSA regarding this.

Wed, 02/07/2018 - 12:09 Permalink
Kacee (not verified)

I know someone who is

I know someone who is receiving social security checks every month. She has told me that she is supposed to be living alone in order to continue receiving her check. Now, I know she is not living alone. Her and her fiancé are living in the same home. Last I knew he was just having his mail go elsewhere so it wasn't known that he is living with her. And he is currently trying to get approved for social security checks as well when I have known his for years and he has never had a reason to not be able to work. I believe he is honestly just getting it so he can continue to be lazy. I feel as though circumstances such as that are what make it harder for people who actually need it to get it. But my main purpose for this comment is basically, should I submit a report about her claiming to be living alone so she doesn't loose her check?

Tue, 02/06/2018 - 00:03 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

I have been trying to get

I have been trying to get disability for over 7 years th3y keep denying me saying I'm not sick enough not and I can answer a phone well I know a couple people that collect disibilty when they can work it's not right what can I do

Thu, 02/08/2018 - 08:19 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
You may want to contact the SSA to report any suspected fraud.

Thu, 02/08/2018 - 10:33 Permalink
Les (not verified)

I know there is much

I know there is much fraudulant claims out there. Most are under the guise of a mental issue. I know of a man trying for disability, hasn't been approved yet as he's now scheduled for a hearing. I know for a fact he's been worked physically hard. If it's a mental, who knows? May ne why the easy way. I do know he was working a fast food and quit just to apply for SSDI. Suspicious? Also makes sure the SSA doesn't catch him in the act. So he works out of a homeless shelter rent free for work. A good coverup, yes. I am on SSDI, 3 total joint replacements, fused wrist and toe also. I am working the SSA's program to intehrate back into a job I can do. I am 66 and have a 28 hour a week schedule now, I'm happy. So what's wrong with this other so called, disabled guy, or trying to be? I think he's unhappy, burned out and tired of working, a new age type bum. He should not get any disability and just go back to work.

Thu, 02/08/2018 - 09:06 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Les (not verified)

Hi Les,

Hi Les,
Thanks for sharing! It's very hard to determine if someone is disabled due to a psychological or mental condition without being a doctor.

Thu, 02/08/2018 - 10:34 Permalink
Nesha (not verified)

I understand that people

I understand that people receiving disability are still able to work, but aren't there specific guidelines that are required such as reporting their work and income? From previous reviews that I've read it seems even if an individual do not report their work and income, it's still not considered as fraud. That doesn't make a lot of sense, unless I have misunderstood something. But anyway the individual I am debating to report is collecting disability for a broken neck which I am sure there are "functional limitation" that would restrict him from doing physical work. However he still continues to do the exact same job "plumbing and construction" (both obviously physical work) that got him on disability and getting paid under the table. Now I'm not an investigator or the smartest person in the world, but this sounds like a fraudster to me. All you would have to do is give him a call to schedule an appointment for the work you need done, and he'll show up at your doorstep. So I can't imagine this being that difficult to investigate.

Your feedback is appreciated,

Thanks

Mon, 02/12/2018 - 22:16 Permalink
Deanna

In reply to by Nesha (not verified)

Hi Nesha,

Hi Nesha,
Yes, people on disability do have to report their income from working. Those on SSDI can earn about $800 per month without triggering a "Trial Work Period" or losing disability benefits. What you described absolutely sounds like fraud.

Thu, 02/15/2018 - 11:29 Permalink
George (not verified)

I want to report a neighbor,

I want to report a neighbor, but he's the neighborhood bully. Why would I give my SSN and Name so he can bully me.

Tue, 02/13/2018 - 13:19 Permalink
Towanda W (not verified)

How do I report someone who

How do I report someone who currently is receiving SSI but is incarcerated?

Tue, 02/13/2018 - 20:27 Permalink
Eric

In reply to by Towanda W (not verified)

Hi There,

Hi There,

Their benefits should have been paused once they got incarcerated. You can file a report with the SSA by calling their fraud hotline.

Wed, 02/14/2018 - 16:52 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

If the person is in jail can

If the person is in jail can they still get disability

Tue, 02/13/2018 - 23:27 Permalink
Eric

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi There,

Hi There,

So their Social Security benefits are supposed to pause once someone becomes incarcerated. They can resume once they get released.

Wed, 02/14/2018 - 16:53 Permalink
Tracey (not verified)

This is going to be something

This is going to be something that i need to know. I have a neighbor that is currently receiving disabilty/ssi, but she is also a drug felon. How would I report her? I also have another neighbor that is receiving disabilty/ssi for being over the age of 65. but he is only 28 years old. I have reported my 28 year old neighbor before, but nothing was ever done. So what do I do?

Thu, 02/15/2018 - 08:12 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

I got one for ya my Boss let

I got one for ya my Boss let his wife work on a mail route they have and she get 100% total disability they own three house two of them they rent and the house they live in now is rent free from his boss and the contract they have to haul mail is a Goverment contract and also they have truck driver that work for them and they pay there drivers in a 1099 the drivers get nothing no fringe benefits no taxs takeing out from there employer no nothing just what they make

Fri, 02/16/2018 - 09:39 Permalink
Mr X (not verified)

Hello can I report a mail

Hello can I report a mail contractor him and his wife are getting a way here with a lot let me tell a little of what is going on frist of all they own a Government contract to haul mail out of Huntsville Alabama she is 100% on Disabilty but she work on a Monday on what is called a midday run and I know by DOT laws you can not work and drive a truck on medication and another thing by the DOT laws you have to have the name of your business or company on the side of every truck door and if you have employees you have to take out tax's on them but they don't they do a 1099 and in there contract there are the fringe benefits but they don't pay there drivers this has been going on a long time TIME TO STOP

Fri, 02/16/2018 - 10:05 Permalink
Deanna

In reply to by Mr X (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
I am sorry to hear that--it sounds like that could be fraud to me! If you'd like you can report it.

Thu, 02/22/2018 - 11:08 Permalink
Dan (not verified)

what if we have photo proof

what if we have photo proof from a social media site that the person is working and collecting SSI.. The person in question admitted it on a public social media site that they are working and collecting SSI and receiving medical as well

Fri, 02/16/2018 - 11:12 Permalink
BM (not verified)

My roommate is on disability

My roommate is on disability for copd and spends 1/3 of her check on cigarettes

Sun, 02/18/2018 - 00:11 Permalink
Dani (not verified)

Hi there, so I kno a guy who

Hi there, so I kno a guy who admitted to me that me is not I’ll but makes sure that he fills his prescriptions to make it look as though he is taking them. The problem is that he had a friend who was a doctor years ago in a different state who diagnosed him with a mental disorder which he does not have. He is very good with words and manipulative. He also looked up how to act. He has broken many laws and Everytime I think the cops will arrest him he uses the “diagnosis” as a get out of jail free card. He has no drivers license but drivers everywhere, he works under the table, and lives with a wife who works full time, and still gets away with it all!!!! The hard part is he’s some what family and when will they catch this guy.... he preventing someone who truly needs it!

Sun, 02/18/2018 - 03:38 Permalink
Eric

In reply to by Dani (not verified)

Hi Dani,

Hi Dani,

That's quite a serious allegation. However, things like that do happen unfortunately. You may want to speak with the SSA to see what your next steps are.

Mon, 02/19/2018 - 16:23 Permalink
Sam (not verified)

I have an uncle who has

I have an uncle who has claimed disability because of the service he did in the military. He supposably cannot walk and has a lot of pain and can hardly do anything. However, he walks perfectly fine and can do everything fine. He goes to doctors appointment saying he uses a cane when he doesn't. He even goes on vacations and does everything he tells his doctor he can't. He receives social security benefits and disability. It is unjust that he fakes and receives compensation while there are people who actually have disabilities.

Mon, 02/19/2018 - 15:37 Permalink
Eric

In reply to by Sam (not verified)

Hi Sam,

Hi Sam,

I am sorry to hear that. It is a real shame that people try to fraud the Social Security programs.

Mon, 02/19/2018 - 16:25 Permalink
How can I send… (not verified)

I have pictures of an

I have pictures of an individual working while drawing disability. How do I send these in and will it make any difference ?

Tue, 02/20/2018 - 14:41 Permalink
Eric

In reply to by How can I send… (not verified)

Hi There,

Hi There,

So you are able to work while collecting Social Security benefits, that alone does not constitute fraud.

Tue, 02/20/2018 - 15:15 Permalink
Dani (not verified)

What if I am aware that a man

What if I am aware that a man is drawing disability and building decks and remodeling houses for cash on the side. He lives with his mother and she draws social security as well. The house is paid for and all the vehicles are paid for with cash. His brother is the one that is paying him cash to work this construction on his rental property. Do I need to provide ss numbers for EVERYONE involved?

Tue, 02/20/2018 - 15:48 Permalink
Eric

In reply to by Dani (not verified)

Hi Dani,

Hi Dani,

So you are able to work and collect disability as long as your monthly income does not exceed the 2018 SGA limit. If he is not reporting additional income to the SSA that could constitute fraud.

Wed, 02/21/2018 - 14:03 Permalink
ALEX (not verified)

A friend of mine has been on

A friend of mine has been on disability for over 10 years for depression, but he started driving for Uber and was bragging about making over $100k in 2016. I thought that SSDI does a thorough check on anyone receiving disability checks. This friend of mine was bragging that he spent over $17k in strip club in Asia. I’m appalled that SSDI does not check?? Scratching my head here.

Wed, 02/21/2018 - 19:33 Permalink
Randi (not verified)

My ex-husband got sick with

My ex-husband got sick with leukemia a few years ago and now receives social security disability. He recently opened a barbershop and registered the business under his current wife's name to be able to continue receiving his benefits. I find this to be terrible because he's double dipping and it's not right. Is this something I can report?

Thu, 02/22/2018 - 18:05 Permalink
Eric

In reply to by Randi (not verified)

Hi Randi,

Hi Randi,

You are able to work and collect SSDI. You may want to contact the SSA and see if there are any further steps to take regarding this.

Fri, 02/23/2018 - 11:24 Permalink
frankdog (not verified)

My fraud subject works under

My fraud subject works under the table receives ss for injuries, I know how to report that but the painkillers she gets due to injury she sells,meaning she is not that bad off.Who handles the prescription part of fraud ? ty

Fri, 02/23/2018 - 10:00 Permalink

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