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.

Additional Resources

Blog comments

Just wanted to (not verified)

In reply to by Bryan

I think it sooo very wrong

I think it sooo very wrong for my BFF to collect Social Security Disability because she found a psychiatrist that deems her bipolar and severely depressed. Butttt....she is a Registered Nurse mind you...and is working a Home Health care job and making a hell of alot of money working! And all this time her benefits are just building up??!! How can you work as an RN and still collect about $1800 in benefits?? She does have issues but has also has played that card for so long. Now...her doctor has her so medicated that she has tremors. She is also over 300 lbs. And is still able to work as a RN?? I would not want her taking care of me or any of my loved ones. It is so messed up. I have been very close to this situation for over 30 yrs. Pisses me off...either get your disability check...OR...work as a nurse. NOT BOTH!! NOT FAIR!!

Sat, 08/13/2016 - 02:54 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Just wanted to (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
You can report this information to the SSA here:
Social Security Fraud Hotline
P.O. Box 17768
Baltimore, Maryland 21235

Mon, 08/15/2016 - 10:02 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Just wanted to (not verified)

The problem is is that we as

The problem is is that we as a society stick people in a box, diagnose them, and think that we have both answered all their questions and solved the problem. We've done neither.
We need doctors that diagnose, then encourage people to eat right, exercise, and set up a routine. These 3 obvious but ALWAYS overlooked things help all disabled patients IMMENSELY.
This may not help you get over your friend, but it may help those with diagnoses themselves.

Wed, 09/07/2016 - 11:45 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
Thanks for sharing! It's true, preventative medicine does work.

Thu, 09/08/2016 - 11:04 Permalink
Ashley (not verified)

In reply to by Bryan

So what exactly would be

So what exactly would be considered fraud since I read just about all of these and what I'm gathering is these "disabled" people can work, do dangerous activities (as long as it is 'de-stressing' them), work under the table, and allowed do things that their disability SHOULD BE PREVENTING THEM FROM DOING ex:push mowing a large yard though their 'bad' back is preventing them from working but since it de-stresses them, it's not fraud?

That's what I am gathering. So if you could PLEASE give me and example of what fraud would be, I would love that.

Tue, 08/30/2016 - 20:16 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Ashley (not verified)

Hi Ashley,

Hi Ashley,
Not all disabilities are the same, and because of that saying that someone is committing fraud is difficult. For example, a person receiving SSDI benefits because of PTSD can absolutely do physical things ( mow lawns, ect) However, a solid example of fraud would be of someone misrepresenting their condition by falsifying records

Wed, 08/31/2016 - 09:25 Permalink
Ashley (not verified)

In reply to by Bryan

Hi Bryan, (Ashley again) so

Hi Bryan, (Ashley again) so if a woman collets disability for her so called migraines that cause her to not be able to work, is it fraud if she is working full time under the table at an insurance agency as well as selling clothes online, and takes Zumba classes (very intense exercizing) 3 times a week?

Thu, 09/01/2016 - 01:33 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Ashley (not verified)

Hi Ashley,

Hi Ashley,
Again, it's very hard to tell if someone does or does not have a disability or if they are or are not comitting fraud because:

(1. Most people aren't doctors and so do not have the clinical ability to tell if something is seriously wrong with a person if it's not apparent when you look at them.

(2. Disabilities come in all forms. It's not reasonable to expect someone with a disability that doesn't affect someone physically or is not constant,like migraines for example, to not exercise because they are considered disabled.

(3. Having a disability does not mean you cannot work. The SSA allows people to work, within limits, while reporting their income. Also, they can own things like stocks, bonds, and businesses (like one that sells clothing) that can make them money without committing fraud.

We're not affiliated with the SSA and as such really could not make the determination that someone is committing fraud, especially because it does take investigation to do so.

As far as this hypothetical person is concerned, if you feel they are committing fraud, you do have options. You can file a report online here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report

Alternately, you can send the SSA a letter here:

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

Thu, 09/01/2016 - 09:32 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Jamie Bell (not verified)

First of all, why are you

First of all, why are you watching someones financials? That is no way to treat people or build trust. Either confront them or keep it to yourself I think.

Wed, 09/07/2016 - 11:46 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

HI there,

HI there,
Thank you for sharing! I agree, it may be best to not take an interest in other's financial dealings.

Thu, 09/08/2016 - 11:03 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

I know someone who gets disability

I know someone who gets disability benefits plus has his kids apply for them..he works under the table doing lawn care and shoveling dirt

Sun, 05/29/2016 - 12:32 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Bryan

So, my ex is doing the same

So, my ex is doing the same kind of thing where they have a landscaping business, as far as I know she does not do the physical work but sets up the appointment and handles the customer side of things. I even found a BBQ complaint with her address. My question is if they are using PayPal can SSI look into the BBB report and able to see pay PayPal transactions?

Mon, 06/13/2016 - 20:43 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi There,

Hi There,
I'm not sure what permission Paypal would give the SSA to look into its records, but beyond that, it is not fraud to work while receiving SSDI or SSI, however you do have to report the income to the SSA. Your ex may be doing nothing wrong.

Tue, 06/14/2016 - 09:51 Permalink
barbara (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

pampa, texas.

Someone I know works full time in Texas and collects disability for a car accident yearz ago. he is not disabled . he gets paid under the table by s man. they are repairing rent houses in the hood in texas. He direct deposits his ssi checks in bank. he gets paid every friday cashes pay every friday at mr payroll every friday. he brags of screwing governorment every month. while my family starves to death

Sat, 07/09/2016 - 11:59 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

someone I know is

someone I know is receiving disability n working 5 days a week in Hartford co for pro service cleaning company under table she banks at bank america making extra 400$ a week for last 3 months she lives in somewhere in the US ,with her husband ,she definitely, is working!!!!!!

Sun, 07/10/2016 - 15:52 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
you can report this information to the SSA here:
SSA Fraud Hotline
(800) 269-0271.

Mon, 07/11/2016 - 10:16 Permalink
Bambi bell (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

there is a gentleman named

there is a gentleman named he was injured from the train yard and draws a check but he runs a thrift store for over a year now and now also runs another store and it's posted on Facebook he doesn't have a personal business account for a reason and he told me why I work for this gentleman for about a year for only $20 a day at 14 hours every day when he quits talking his store I quit he then hired another lady she now works at the store and drop that check also he takes from this community makes a check off the government and I'm sick of him doing people wrong he has a police officer for a brother and he gets legal advice from him he retired three months into the force and the other day he allowed them to talk to me like a dog in a place of business and told me that they could do whatever they wanted to this store needs to be reviewed he is running the store without water I had to work there and could not even make a bowel movement because he would not flush the toilet for 3 weeks at a time because he was too busy to fill up jugs to flush the toilets long story short I would love to remain anonymous because he will know that I am the one that is making this report since I have quit he wants to waive $20 over my head as if it is something of 2000 he works everybody for $20 a day and I think that he should have to pay the government back if he is screwing the government over checks are there to help people I know people that can't even get a check now I've been trying to get food stamps and just because they didn't send something in the mail I just don't get them people that need assistance sometimes don't get them but I'm telling you he can work he may watch a woman pick up a dryer from time to time but he definitely can do it itself I've seen it the name of the story thrift store located in the area trust me you will see exactly what I'm talking about

Tue, 08/02/2016 - 14:36 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Bambi bell (not verified)

Hi Bambi,

Hi Bambi,
You can report any SSA fraud here:

http://oig.ssa.gov/report

It also sounds like there may be health code and labor violations there as well! I would contact your state's department of labor and OSHA about those, as they may shut down workplaces deemed to be unsafe or a hazard to the community.

Tue, 08/02/2016 - 16:08 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

bothe claiming what they

bothe claiming what they shouldn't just to collect but are both working

Wed, 08/10/2016 - 00:18 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

Someone I know

Someone I know was told collecting disability for heart condition working under the table 40 plus hours a week.

Wed, 08/24/2016 - 10:07 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

Someone I know gets dis and

Someone I know gets dis and works get a grand a week udertab

Thu, 08/25/2016 - 10:11 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Bryan

I also know another person

I also know another person claims he has back problems an hit it when he was young but he walks better than me an he got disability cause his wife is smart an told him what to do he went in on a cane now no cane.

Sat, 09/24/2016 - 08:00 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
You can send any reports of fraud to the SSA here:
Social Security Fraud Hotline
P.O. Box 17768
Baltimore, Maryland 21235

Mon, 09/26/2016 - 11:57 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

The problem is that the 80+

The problem is that the 80+ welfare programs the U.S. government has set up are faulty. They hand out money and discourage self-sufficiency. Your friend can maybe work, but say they are suffering with depression. They still need disability support in case their neurological disability acts up and they cant get to work, right? Say they are so depressed they can't get out of bed 3 times this week. They get fired. Now they have to wait months to get accepted back into disability because of your report and meanwhile they are homeless.
I would suggest just talking to your friend before running to the authorities. You probably don't have the whole story.

Wed, 09/07/2016 - 11:35 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
Thank you for sharing! It's true, having a disabling condition may have negative effects on your ability to work.

Thu, 09/08/2016 - 11:06 Permalink
tim AKERS (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

my brother Terry working

my brother Terry working since 2011 in alaw suit with collects benefit and working every daycall me tim "

Thu, 09/15/2016 - 21:50 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

Georgeio pearson is useing

Someone I know is useing gov money..to buy and sell drugs...there is nothing really wrong with him...he has work skill and can .but wont do to..this person will use anyone he can to get ahead in life...he dont care about whom he hurt along the way.... He knows how to play retated. Very well..playing with your intelligence. ....also...he took a shit on purpose in the court room and bragged about playing dumm and crazy to get a check.....everymouth at 12a.m on 1st of the mouth..he go get the money to reup..for..sales...party..and hussle life...he uses different. Woman of any age to feel sorry for him......and his patents do the coaching....i had a video. Clip of him bragging to het free money by playing the system....where. He sqats and pays no rent..using illeagle lights...and a cord runningt from his moms house to his sqaut house...he. Keeps the place trashy claming..it a trap house....but..acting like..its..a.home..of love...when..itd not....GUNS...WEED...COCAIN..PILLS...WHORES...HE IS VERY SMART WHEN HE CANT GET THE THINGS. HE WANTS OUT OF LIFE HE USES DIFFERENT PEOPLE..MEN TOO...MANIPULATIVE PERSON TRAIN TO MANIPULATIVE. FROM HIS PARENTS....THEY ALL DO DRUGS..WITH ..GOV..MONEY...AND
.IM..SURE..OUR..TAX..DOLLARS...DO..NOT TAKE CARE OF STREET PEOPLE THIS WAY.... HE SPENDS...THE WHOLE. CHECK TO RE UP ON WEED..COCAIN...OWEING..PEOPLE FOR IT...SAVING A WHOLE LOT. HUSSLE DRUGS....HE BRAGED ABOUT WORKING FOR FORD...WHEN THEY HAD THE FLOOD..WHEN THE COMPANY NEEDED SOME MANY PEOPLE FOR CLEAN UP...HE STALKS AND PREY ON INNOCENT PEOPLE FOR HIS OWN PETSONNAL GAIN.. DRINK AND BYS LIQUOR. WITH GOV MONEY TOO...THESE PEOPLE IS GETTING PHAT.....THEY CHOOSE TO WHETE SAME CLOTH AND BE DIRTY..FOR..IT..TO..LOOK..GOOD.somethinh need to be review..and..if you think im lieing..have..him watched..the dog thats..in the..yard..is.to.scare the light dte company from cutting..wires...thr lights hooked up illeagle.SQAUTTING..ILLEAGLE..WHATS MAKES HIM SPECIAL THAT HE GET AWAY WITH A CRIME HE IS COMMENTING????? And braggs about having police as family and he would be in the clear..he can work 40 hours per week..he did on s.s..and did not report. On purpose to get over on the system...

Tue, 09/20/2016 - 08:32 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
you can send evidence of fraud to the SSA here:
Social Security Fraud Hotline
P.O. Box 17768
Baltimore, Maryland 21235

Tue, 09/20/2016 - 08:59 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

I know someone who is on

I know someone who is on total disability an working as a caregiver an the family pays her.I also know someone who receives disability an plays the lottery an wins but puts it in his wife's name so it won't mess him up an he just bought 2 new vehicles an put them in her name

Sat, 09/24/2016 - 07:57 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
They may not be committing fraud if they are receiving benefits based on their work record ( those benefits do not have unearned income limits) and they are working within the SSA's definition of their disabilities.

Mon, 09/26/2016 - 13:51 Permalink
Travis simmon (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

I know someone working and

I know someone working and doing drugs and get money from yall

Tue, 10/04/2016 - 13:25 Permalink
fred jackson (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

I know that melissa june

I know that someone is on disability.....she does have some minor medical conditions but is able to work and works at the workplace in the state.

Sat, 10/08/2016 - 07:53 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by fred jackson (not verified)

Hi Fred,

Hi Fred,
It is really difficult for people to correctly assess whether someone is not disabled if they are not doctors. I really could not say that the person that you mentioned is not truly disabled. If you feel that they are, you may want to let the SSA know by filing a report here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report

Mon, 10/10/2016 - 10:22 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

Sandra sue stripling from

Someone I know sells her hydro cod ones for cash and doesn't not take them . She also lives with a man whom in which has a full time job making 28 dollars an hour

Tue, 12/06/2016 - 07:29 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Hi there,

Hi there,
You may want to contact the SSA regarding this, you can do so here:
Social Security Fraud Hotline
P.O. Box 17768
Baltimore, Maryland 21235

Tue, 12/06/2016 - 09:24 Permalink
John Fitzgerald (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

My neighbor is working at

My neighbor is working at walmart but her husband draws a check she told us that no one will find out she is working so she is not reporting her income

Tue, 01/17/2017 - 18:41 Permalink
Bryan

In reply to by John Fitzgerald (not verified)

Hi John,

Hi John,
Depending on the type of benefit your neighbor is getting, they may not be committing fraud. It is possible to work while living in a household that receives disability benefits.

Wed, 01/18/2017 - 09:32 Permalink
Anonymous (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

I know some body I would

I know some body I would love to report it

Mon, 01/23/2017 - 20:31 Permalink
Joe Friday (not verified)

In reply to by Leann (not verified)

I know of a Person In

I know of a Person In Kentucky that is receiving Disability but working a job under the table. and collecting disability benefits

Sun, 02/05/2017 - 00:08 Permalink

Add new comment

Find Out If I Qualify for Benefits!