Social Security Takes Fraud Seriously
Reading Time: 1 MinuteLast Updated: August 19, 2021
One out of five Americans receives benefits from Social Security, including elderly retirees, people with severe illnesses, and widows and children of deceased wage earners.
With so many of our country’s most vulnerable citizens depending on us, we take our responsibility of providing them with a measure of financial security seriously.
One way we do that is by making a priority our many efforts to pursue those who would cheat the system and take money away from those who need it most.
The agency’s benefit programs are far-reaching and complex, which means that preventing, detecting, and combatting fraud, waste, and abuse is an ongoing challenge. Although we can’t prevent every instance of fraud any more than law enforcement can prevent all crimes, we aggressively investigate potential instances of fraud and pursue prosecution of those who commit it.
Our Office of Anti-Fraud Programs (OAFP) uses many tools to help predict where fraud may occur so we can identify it as quickly as possible. OAFP works alongside the Office of the Inspector General, and Disability Determination Services in the Cooperative Disability Investigation (CDI) program. CDI units investigate and resolve questions of fraud in our programs. There are stiff penalties: We seek the maximum punishment allowable under the law to restore money stolen from the American people. As a result, fraud affects only a very small percentage of our overall payments.
You can help protect your investment in Social Security. Take time to learn all the facts on how we work to prevent fraud. Remember, if you suspect fraud, report it or call the fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.
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Tags: fraud, social security, SSA
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Phil Gambino, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Assistant Deputy Commissioner for Communications
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Joe W.
If the SSA cared so much their document would be more understandable the web site would be easier to use and god forbid try to get an answer over the phone
Talos M.
For real
James L.
Joe, sorry you had difficulty reaching us by phone, but we sometimes experience higher than normal call volume. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later in the week. Our representatives are available Monday through Friday between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. and can review and explain what you see on the web site or the content of any letters you received from us. Our toll free number is 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
Sheila
Even when a representative answers the phone, many times they are unable to answer any questions. I have requested a copy of my file months ago and the AC has stated that they do not know when it will be sent. I ask for verification that they have certain documents and their response is that they can not answer my questions because my file is a paper file and they do not have access to it. Who Does I ask? No real answer is given.
marilina p.
100% agree
Tony D.
Social Security treats ordinary beneficiaries like criminals with no way of communicating with the SS accusers to clarify accusations of fraud. In the late 90s, SSA billed me for $20,000 for checks I was not entitled to, but which I was returning to them. I had solid proof that I was returning the checks on two fronts, but I could only fix the error by going to my congressman because SSA gave me no other means of communicating with their gestapo.
Talos M.
I feel you. Welcome to club.
Jack W.
IT’S ABOUT TIME!!!
Chuck t.
For what?
HunterSThompson
Free tablets!
Robert M.
Fraud investigation is a joke! I an an attorney practicing SS law and receive numerous inquiries about turning in someone for fraud. When I contact SSA about fraud they refuse to take a third party report, also they will not keep confidential the reporting person.
Lorenzo D.
Thanks for your efforts in helping us fight fraud, Robert. You can report fraud online to our Office of the Inspector General, where reporting is easy, safe and secure. You can remain anonymous, but keep in mind that your decision for anonymity may limit our ability to conduct a complete investigation. The length of time that it takes to investigate a fraud case varies. Also, federal regulations prohibit the disclosure of information contained in law enforcement records even to the individual making the allegation.
Denise J.
Lorenzo, I firmly expected a young woman of committing fraud and three times updated the Office of The Inspector Grneral. She is a confirmed felon & I’d like to know if a felon can receive disability. She rented from me and told me to my face she was working for a friend cleaning apartments for cash. She has 4 children and at only 33 was collecting checks for herself & all of her 4 kids. After her first arrest, one father got full custody of his child and I doubt very seriously that she informed the SSA Disability Division that she was no longer qualified to receive money for that child. Lastly she’s been arrested under two aliases & been married at least 3 times so who knows which name she is using to collect her disability. I feel that as the person who began the investigation) with an urgent push from a young man at the SSA after having pulled and viewed her file, I should be allowed to know what the outcome was of the investigation that I started. Don’t you believe I have s right to know if she was cheating my Government and if I was correct in my assumptions?
Lorenzo D.
Denise, the length of time that it takes to investigate a fraud case varies. Also, federal regulations prohibit the disclosure of information contained in law enforcement records even to the individual making the allegation. Please see our Office of the Inspector General web page to learn more about how we handle reports of fraud.
bernadette
check someone name bernadette beauboin. she lives in haiti never work in this country and get medicare free and money. she has a hotel in haiti rented to people for office. why does she received money from the tax payers? too many haitians are committed fraud and we the honest one are paying the price.
bernadette s.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING ABOUT BERNADETTE BEAUBRUN, WHO COME HERE EVERY SIX MONTHS TO GET HER MONEY AND USE MEDICARE WHILE SHE NEVER WORK A DAY HERE. CHECK HER ADDRESS IN MEDFORD MA WHERE SHE STAYED TO COLLECT HER FRAUD MONEY. WHILE I WORKED FOR 47 YEARS HERE AND COLLECT SSC AND CAN’T EVEN PAY MY MORTGAGE WHILE SHE HAS HER MENSION IN HAITI COLLECTING PAYMENT FROM HER OFFICE SPACE. NOW SOMETHING IS WRONG HERE. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE SOMETHING DONE ABOUT THESE FRAUD.
Brisnna
HI EE NEED TO TALK I WENT THROUGH SANE THING AN WAS TAKEN BY A CONARTIST WHO HIS WIFE IS A CONVICTED FELON EITH HUNDREDS OF SSI NUMBERS N SHE ILLEGALLY TOOK OUT AND FORGED MY MOTHERS NAME ON LIFE INSURANCE POLICY HER AND MY EX CONARTIST BF OF 15 YEARS SETBMY SUTO INS UP THREE PARTY ACCIDENT ALL ALIASES THE DRIVER JUST SO HAPOENS TO WORK FOR BASCIANNI MUSHROOMS IN KENNETT SW PA MY MOMS BROTHER DEVISED THIS WHOLE THING HE RECENTLY TOOK HIS LIFE ON MY DEAR LATE MITHERS BIRTHDAY MY OTHER UNCLE I TURNED INTO THE IRS FOR ILLEGALLY TAKING OUT LIFE INS POLICIES ON MY BROTHER MOTHER AND LATE HUSBAND RUSS TRSNSMISSION IN TOUGH KENOMON THEY HAVE REALESTATE AND HUNDREDS OF ALIASES N FAKE IDENTITIES WHICH THEY KILL OFF TOO AND COLLECT LIFE INSURANCE. OH THAT LADYS NAME ISNT PAM STANLEY IS IT?
Sincerely burns girl of Nottinghampa
Mariah
No you do not have the right to know and you need to mind your own business, you have already reported the woman. And yes a felon can recieve benefits, in a lot of cases while they are incarcerated awaitin trial. You did enough and you do not know what disability someone has by seeing them occasionally! How would you know if she reported that she does not care for one of her children anymore?
Donald O.
Our son has insulin dependant Diabetes, high blood pressure, fibromyalgia, and his immune system is in bad shape. He applied for disability with Social Security and thus far has been told by a SSA judge to see their doctor. He spent exactly 3 minutes with the Doctor and was told he had no restrictions on working, walking, climbing or any type of exercise. With that determination he was turned down for his claim and has to reapply. Thanks to SSA he has already waited over two years only to be told it will be a lot longer still. He is unable to work or provide for his family. It appears SSA does not care, unless they are hoping he will die before they have to pay.
Lorenzo D.
We are sorry to hear of your son’s condition, and that his application for disability benefits did not go the way you had hoped. If your son does not agree with our decision, he has the right to file an appeal. To learn more about the four levels of appeal and how the appeals process works, see The Appeal Process page on our web site.
If his disability claim was denied at the hearing level, he may ask for a review by Social Security’s Appeals Council before he files a new claim, but he must ask for a review in writing within 60 days of receiving the hearing decision.
Laurie
I have a similar situation and my son was actually on SSI. It was taken away when he was 19 because they said he was no longer considered disabled with ALL of the same conditions! Plus NOW they are charging him for overpayment!! So frustrating and no help from anyone to fight!! Meanwhile, a relative is getting her daughter’s disability money without her daughter even living with her!! No justice!!!!!
Witold S.
If SSA took fraud seriously it would be transparent about it. Transparency would be to publish the number of claimants that have experienced fraudulent filing of internet claims on their records. Transparency would mean publishing data regarding those who have experienced benefit theft from their mySSA accounts when thieves diverted their checks into their direct deposit bank accounts. Over 100,000 customers have experienced such robbery.
Don’t lie to the public about SSA’s fraud vigilance. If SSA was vigilant about fraud, it would have instituted far greater security measures to prevent cyber thieves from filing false internet applications and stealing claimants benefits. Instead it was expedient for SSA to institute minimal security to enhance SSA’s goal of forcing claimants to file on the internet and therefore allowing SSA to close offices and reduce staff.
Ben S.
Social Security has taken action to fight fraud. In addition to strengthening our procedures for identifying callers who request changes on the phone, we also added unique and stringent fraud protection tools to our online registration and authentication technology. For security purposes, we cannot publicly discuss the specifics of the modifications we made. Our efforts to prevent fraud have been successful, and the amount of fraud in our programs is extremely low. Opening a my Social Security account is safe—as well as quick, free, and easy. You will need to provide some personal information and answer some questions only you are likely to know. This process protects you and keeps your information private. There are extra security features, too. You can have unique text message codes sent to your cell phone each time you want to sign in. There is even an address bar at the top of your screen indicating the website has an extended validation certificate. This means the information you provide to Social Security will be encrypted and that the website has been verified by a certification authority.
Keep in mind that, although we have made our online services safe and convenient, we remain fully committed—now and in the future—to sustaining our local offices to provide face-to-face service to members of the public who need or prefer to conduct business with us in person. It’s all about choice. We understand the service expectations of the public are evolving, and we need to meet these changing expectations as the demand for our service grows. Join the 19 million satisfied customers who have successfully set up my Social Security accounts. You can safely review estimates of your retirement, disability, and survivors benefits, your earnings record, and the estimated Social Security and Medicare taxes you’ve paid.
witold S.
hey Ben stop with the propaganda. publish SSA’s fraud statistics regarding I claims and MYSSA. Thousands of customers have been defrauded and all you can reply with are platitudes. Publish the statistics on how many have been victimized. Anyone who files online or does business via mySSA is taking a huge risk. Go to the SSA office. Don’t risk identity theft by filing online. Why do SSA managers encourage customers to file online at libraries where their private info can be easily stolen??? All SSA wants to do is dupe the public in filing online and then close field offices so the public has no other choice.
marilina p.
sometimes SSA became ridiculous, my father is 80 years old, and confused many times because a stroke he had.but if he get online to check his benefits or something, his old fingers make errors, once or two times, SSA, suspended his electronic access for 24 hours, come on, why they dont use the security questions (3) instead.is not easy even for me, am younger, capital letters, numbers and so on changing passwords every 6 months, SSA is dealing with elderlies and disabled,find another way not suspended access.what if the person is sick and cant call SS, nobody else can do it, some kind of discrimination is this, against the elderlies.
Richard
How do we investigate Social Security Employees that harrass people who receive SSI and disablity which is also a ongoing problem.,They treat you like your automatically lying to them and treat you like second class . Just like the IRS someone should investigate and look into Social Security as well… just a thought and opinion .
James L.
Thanks for your feedback, Richard. SSI is a needs based program intended for disabled individuals who have limited income and resources, so we review SSI cases from time to time to make sure the individuals receiving checks are still eligible to get them. There are many variables in determining when and how often we review SSI cases, including but not limited to changes in resources, income, living situation, or medical conditions. We apologize if you felt harassed when our representatives asked you questions related to these issues. You can request to speak to a manager on your next visit to discuss any perceived employee misconduct. You can also reach us by visiting our “Email A Question to our Support Team” web page, where you can send us an email with your comments or questions.
Nancymarie
I had to report my contact at my local SSA office. He was very patronizing and condescending. I’ll bet my IQ is higher than his. I told him he didn’t have to speak rudely to me. Claimed he wasn’t. Since calls are recorded I turned his butt in
Sara
Yes that is true. I have a nephew who stepdaughter is 20 and they live with me and her mother gives her what ever she wants there is nothing wrong with her other then she sees a shrink every wk just so the shrink puts her on ssi. Nothing has happened to the 20 yr old it’s just she is PURE lazy. She is very smart and sits all day on her cell phone just waiting to go on ssi. She never went to look for job and her mother makes her do NOTHING it upsets me and I want to put them out but I can’t do that to my nephew. I and my husband and nephew and wife work really hard to make ends meet and here sits a dam 20 yr old want for dr to put her on ssi cause she reads things on her phone that tells you how to do the system. She is very proud not to look for job. It just upsets me. Think I could get hold of her dr and let her know that she is faking. Please help
jimmieneutron
First of all, who are you to say that she is faking. Are you a Dr? Are you qualified to give diagnosis. Do you realize that SSDI and SSI can be awarded to those with disabilities mentally, or emotionally, or are even sufferers of disorders that you can’t see? The fact that she does nothing but sit on the phone all day is a read flag. Are you and your husband excepting rent money from any of the family member connected to the young lady receiving benefits? I want the SSA to know that there is also a reverse fraud trend happening where people call SSA to report fraud on a beneficiary out of mallace, jealousy, and envy. Working people, people who have been blessed with no disability, and whom have been blessed with the ability to go into the world and earn a wage think that, if the beneficiary is not slumped over, lame, unable to talk, or suffer from extreme retardation then they aren’t disabled. They get on threads like these and make comments like the one I’m replying to. This is a huge problem that I could only imagine bogs down the fraud detection and investigative systems! Because a person is smart or intelligent DOES NOT mean that they aren’t suffering from a disability you don’t see! Intelligence is awesome but useless if you can’t get out of your bed, or muster up the courage to even go into convenient stores. Being smart means NOTHING when youre to scared to leave your house! Degrees, certifications, licenses mean nothing when you’re so caught up in horrible thoughts that you can’t manage bathing, or getting to a place on time, or even remember what you’re supposed to do when you finally took enough medicine to get yourself there! #SSA I really feel like you need to look into this. I hear about people doing it all the time just out of hatefulness and spite. And to the grown woman who wrote this judgmental, threatening post, about someone whom you hardly know, you need to check your motives, and your judgmental attitude! You know nothing of what that young lady might be going through and unless you hear her say “I’m just faking it to get the money” or something along those lines then you have no business attempting to diagnos someone based on what you see. Also SSI benefits are not even for disabled people but for low to no income ppl though some disabled people receive SSI on top of their SSDI (DISABILITY BENEFITS) so I think first mind your business, and second AND third, be extatic of the fact that you and your husband are blessed to be able to maintain gainful employment to support your family and stop making rash decisions and judgments based on what you think is disabled or not disabled or low income or not low income
jimmieneutron
And may I also say to SSA this reverse SS fraud I.e. making false fraud claims against beneficiaries because one doesn’t THINK that a person should be receiving or isn’t disabled out of spite it really needs to be dealt with. A lot of beneficiaries live in fear. Yeah you could say don’t tell anyone but hey get this, you have to tell who you rent your home or apt from where you receive your income, and that leasing agent or landlord has a mouth that they use at their descretion! They blab to one person and the whole neighborhood/complex is taking pictures of you getting groceries out of your car or taking a walk! Its ridiculous and those citizens who do abuse the fraud reporting system to bring up these false reports, they need to be dealt with at the same level of discipline as those who steal from SSA! removing myself from soap box. #goodday!
Steve
If fraud is such a issue and the SSA is serious about it then why has the administration not adopted the use of Social Security cards with a photo ID on them. This I believe would help in preventing fraud. I saw a article that SSA over a ten year period incorrectly gave away billions of dollars in disability checks, some even to dead people. I think in the 21 century, with all the computer power we have, the SSA can do better than this. Isn’t the your middle name “Security”
Gloria Z.
We need Photo ID to stop this fraud. I have a Autistic son and I can- not get social security disability for him.
Ricky
The photo idea is not bad, but SSN cards currently don’t expire & thus the pictures would go out of date. Instead to prove that you are the person named on the card, it is only necessary that you present ID with the SSN card (like a driver’s license, state ID, or a passport). Unfortunately, some that accept fraudulently presented (often fake) SSN cards, i.e. some employers, aren’t really that interested whose SSN is being presented so even a photo wouldn’t necessarily help. Probably a better more modern approach would to be to manufacture SSN cards with a chip (like most new credit cards) & require that employers obtain a SSN card chip readout for all their employees each year.
BTW, the vast majority of the disability money that gets incorrectly paid is not money paid to the incorrect person. One problem is that beneficiaries don’t always report timely when they return to work, and by the time SSA finds out from IRS, the beneficiary is grossly overpaid. Also, SSA has failed at times to act timely when clients do report their work, but SSA has been working hard to resolve this problem with improved software. In my opinion there is still plenty of room for better & timelier database interfacing between SSA, Homeland Security, & IRS, but this would require additional funding (not only for SSA) & would require changes to current law.
There is another issue inflating the “incorrect paid benefits” issue that is almost impossible for SSA to resolve. Much money is paid to those that SSA has determined to be no longer disabled. However, beneficiaries have appeal rights and the option to elect to continue to be paid until appeals are exhausted. Not that the beneficiary’s right to continue benefits in this way is a bad thing, as many are successful with their disability cessation appeals once sufficient medical information is obtained. Immediately stopping benefits for persons that remain truly disabled would result in forcing many to be unnecessarily homeless and on the streets. Besides the personal hardships this would cause, it would also create additional societal problems and costs (such as to emergency rooms) and this would likely negate for society any money SSA would save.
Angel l.
I agree with what you saying Steve social security cards with I pic so social security can stop letting people steal my money in the office and out of the office and they hurt me in the social security office to when they detain me left marks on me I show it to those cops and they told them to let me go I did nothing and have no info of them but there names and where they work only that’s all I need to give you
Angel l.
Medical places and social security have my medical record and still messing with me but now if I call the IRS then it won’t be funny so please fix it anyway I can’t go there cause of lack of vision problem they cause they told me my eyes going to get fix and any mental health and medical problems they cause that hurting me so when I try seeing my kids it feel like I have eyes injury’s they cause please fix it asap so I can have a warm place to stay at with my health problems they cause I need a safe warm place so I can feel comfortable in my own place to stay at and stay safe and warm the doctor told me its cold to play with people asap thanks it suppose to be send in my account.don’t listen to them calling me a liar ask me and I send you proof asap please fix can’t get medical fix until you have them turn it back on thank you
Susan J.
I am glad to hear you are going to do something about FRAUD in Social Security. Sending checks to the deceased, to people that gave not paid in and to those that are not citizens. What happened? that it has gone so awry??? Those that have paid in and followed the rules are being threatened everyday, hearing there may not be Social Security, that you are broke! Please stop the FRAUD and terror! Let’s see it happen now!
andy g.
It has taken me 4 years to the day. To get my ssdi started now I have made a couple of neighbors angry and they have started trying to get me in trouble with ssdi.iv been told that. These neighbors have reported me. For. Fraud. I have a bad back along with a sever case of osteoauthritis in every joint in my body. I have been ordered by my dr to try to stay moving that helps with the stiffness. But. My neighbors are constantly taking pics of me. What should I do??
Judy
What you should do is move and quit telling people you have applied for ss
Eve
If you’re in such terrible physical shape and a Dr. has advised you to engage in whatever behavior it is the neighbors are taking pictures of… how could anyone get you in trouble with SSDI?
marilina p.
you dont have to be citizen of USA, just a legal resident or green card holder, for your information
Debra A.
I applied for disability and SSI back in March and been trying to get some information on the status. I have logged in to my Social Security account many times and haven’t gotten anywhere. The message has told me for 3 weeks that a decision has been made and I would receive a letter, but I have gotten nothing. I would appreciate it if maybe you could help me get some information on this issue. Thank you
Hospitals &.
Dear Actuary:
I require an email response indicating that you have performed the
pain in the OASDI calculation without any acts of violence (or theft)
as witnessed by myself and the Social Security blog email. I profess
the correct answer to the optimal OASDI tax rate that would keep the
DI trust fund afloat right now is 2.3% DI and 20.1% OASI and you
entertain cruel options and get the right answer wrong, as I have done
twice, once, at the 2.7% rate, as the result of your foolish shortfall
propaganda math, as you have done by giving it the reallocation tag in
your letter infringing on my monopoly of the truth with the
remorseless bank fraud OMB Director Shaun Donovan. I am a disability
beneficiary your incompetence threatens to rob in 2016. You have
ignored my wrong calculations of the optimal OASDI rates. You seem to
have incited genocide against the Palestinians twice so you have never
been served with the right answer to the optimal OASDI tax
reallocation. Your 2.7% optimal DI rate calculation is as deviant as
my most off estimate made while deluded by your fraudulent estimate on
the shortfall. You have not done the math – FDR’s pain in the OASDI
calculation. In December 2014 I took the week to do the math, and get
it in the right hip, except for the starting date, that was stolen by
the Agriculture Secretary/ National Office of Drug Control Policy for
abolition, with the working copy of the OASDI WILL (Without Income
LImit Law) this Spring. I presume by pleading immunity to prosecution
when not abolishing the lawyer administrative law judges (ALJ) and
replacing them with licensed social workers because Astrue’s obese
abuse of power is not diagnosed in the DSM-V and is nearly exactly the
same illiterate assassination behavior exhibited the incompetent
lawyer ALJs the Actuary has not responded to my pleas to the U.S.
Supreme Court like an official who honors his original jurisdiction.
Perhaps the Actuary is an accountant whose incompetence is due to his
inability to renounce Judaism and learn why leaving the Church is
considered the height of Christian ethics in the inevitable pursuit of
Jain non-violence and aesthetiscism. Unlike the Agriculture Secretary
Vilsack (or Astrue) whose deprivation of relief benefits convictions
are res judicata as of October 2013 and whose trial is closed to
inferference by SSA it seeks to protect, Actuary Goss has until 2016
to be convicted of the entry level civil rights crime of cutting DI
benefits to 80% because its the only mathematical equation he is able
to perform. So Goss is not a competent lawyer, it is the fact that he
is not a competent Actuary that bothers us. Furthermore, the right
answer to the intermediate 2020-2035 OASDI deficit is to eliminated
the maximum taxable limit and tax the rich. The Actuary has engaged
in unethical mathematics with Congress to not abolish the maximum
taxable limit and tax Congress, but instead calculates taxes above
$250,000. Goss has not done the math, if I cannot educate his
holiness (who can’t be prosecuted politely by the U.S. Supreme Court
by the true owner of the balanced federal budget) I may need to be
hired by the United States to update the OASDI Trustee Report so it
could be maintained by insipid bureaucrats and actuaries despite the
anarchist hackings of FY2015 Federal Budget
http://www.title24uscode.org/fy2015.doc
Free Disability Insurance Reallocation Tax (DIRT) Act
To immediately amend the DI tax rate from 1.80% to 2.30%, from 0.90%
to 1.15% for employees and from 0.90% to 1.15% for employers under
Sec. 201(b)(1)(S) of the Social Security Act 42USC(7)II§401 and amend
the OASI tax rate from 10.60% to 10.10%, from 5.30% to 5.05% for
employees under 26USC(C)(21)(A)§3101 (a) and from 5.30% to 5.05% for
employers under 26USC(C)(21)(A)§3111 (a) to avoid depletion of the
Disability Insurance (DI) Trust Fund in 2016 without increasing the
overall 12.4% OASDI or 15.3% OASDI and Hospital Insurance (HI)
tax-rate under 26USC(A)(2)§1401.
To amend the DI tax rate again in 2018 to 2.20% from 2.30%, from 1.15%
to 1.10% for employees and from 1.15% to 1.10% for employers under
Sec. 201(b)(1)(S) of the Social Security Act 42USC(7)II§401 and amend
the OASI tax rate from 10.10% to 10.20%, from 5.05% to 5.10% for
employees under 26USC(C)(21)(A)§3101 (a) and from 5.05% to 5.10% for
employers under 26USC(C)(21)(A)§3111 (a) without increasing the
overall 12.4% OASDI or 15.3% OASDI and Hospital Insurance (HI)
tax-rate under 26USC(A)(2)§1401 to maximize efficiency until a deficit
appears in the OASI Trust Fund in 2020.
Without Income Limit Law (WILL) Act
To abolish the maximum taxable limit on DI contributions in 2016 and
OASI contributions in 2017 and repeal Adjustment of the contribution
and benefit base Section 230 of the Social Security Act 42USC(7)§430
and tax the rich.
To require the Social Security Administration to pay for SSI Costs
beginning in 2017.
To share profits in excess of social security program costs to the
general fund of the U.S Treasury on a sliding scale beginning in 2017
DI 50/50 prioritizing the $22 billion + 2% annual growth cost of USPS,
and OASI 10/90 to eliminate the federal budget deficit. In 2020 OASI
would share at negotiated rates an estimated 25/75, in 2025 OASDI
would share 50/50 and by 2030 75/25 and at 2035 OASDI maybe raise the
overall OASDI tax rate
Lorenzo D.
Thanks for trying to use our online services – we appreciate it! After a medical decision has been made on the claim, the length of time it takes to process the application for payment can vary depending on whether your claim is randomly selected for a quality assurance review of the decision, or if we still need to verify documents or other personal information. We’re sorry for the wait you are experiencing, but we assure you that we care about our customers and are working as fast as we can. We encourage you to continue working with your local office, or if you have further questions, and would like to speak with someone regarding the status of your claim, call 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you’ll have a shorter wait time if you call later in the week.
Deb
You need to get a lawyer. I had to get a lawyer. I was told that all benefits are automatically denied & had so much trouble trying to get anything accomplished until I got a lawyer. I lost 2 years of income, spent my entire savings & retirement fund & now I live off of my disability income only & it’s not easy to say the least. I am in the lower income bracket, can’t live alone. I’d be on the streets if I didn’t have some family members to live with. I don’t know what my future holds for me & its very depressing. I can’t afford to buy a car to get around. Forget about ever taking a vacation or even eating out once in a while. This has ruined my life getting sick!!!
Stephen
Sorry about your luck. While I know it is too late for you anyone working who does not carry disability insurance is taking a large risk. It is much more likely to become disable before retirement age than dying. My work carried that as a benefit but if it did not I would of bought that insurance. As you and countless others have found out , you can starve to death before you are approved for Social Security Disability. And almost always you need a lawyer to navigate the system.
Lori
I agree that no you don’t always have to get a lawyer for disability. But I do think it’s a little less stressful for the person whose applying as far as the stress of everything and that’s depends on the individual. I however did call a lawyer before trying to get it myself and I have to say it took 30 days and I was approved. They payed back pay for year and the week
After I received mine, my daughters came through also with a years back pay because of the date I was determined disabled. Maybe it has to do with the lawyers. But when I applied through the lawyers I had nothing more I need to do other than sign a release for them to get my records. A month later both checks were in the mail. I do think that the lawyers make it easier on the person applying but if your disabled and the lawer takes the case, it takes no time at all. Maybe not everyone but the majority
M
I have to say from experience, that all benefits are not automatically denied and you don’t HAVE to get a lawyer if your paperwork and documents are submitted properly. I went through this with my mother who suddenly became disabled a couple of years ago and her benefits were granted upon the first submission and she received her pay about 7 months later. It was a long wait but with all the fraud that steals tax payers money from the SS bucket, I’m glad they try to be thorough. Like I said, submit papers and documents thoroughly and you should not have a problem.
SONIA M.
I am going though the same type of situation with ss. I had a lawyer who made it worse. I am now 68 and have no income. I am trying to get ssi but ss says i do have income ss. it is crazy and i was convicted of fraud by the lawyer for ss and did not know what i was doing.
Roxann
So what happen it’s going on with me alleydoggy@comcast.net
Dave
What happened with the fraud charge
Bill
Convicted by the lawyer huh?
Victoria
I’m going through the same thing and Im still waiting. I’ve gone through so much including discrimination as well as having to deal with a SS employee that isn’t even in my case fo into my file and tell mutual people I know the details of my claim. I’ve had enough!!
Stephanie K.
That’s illegal they are not allowed to give information to anybody unless you approve of a person on your behalf. Report it to the ssa
Dee f.
Same thing with me I reported to SSA that their employees are adding false information in case file, some documents, have no name signature or anything no dates.Yet its an exhibit for ALJ to consider So many documents are inaccurate and incomplete.Yet Ive been SSA office with proof nobody has taken time to review my complaints what a mess
Stephanie K.
I agree it’s hard to beat a disability claim. However not everyone needs to get a lawyer. There are local legal aid places that can help also.
Amy
well it is sad , I was told I am 100% disabled by a woman at social security, yet she told me she is not sending my file to the upper people for approval. My doctor filled out a paper, I did not know what it meant, and social security when I sent it to them called me and told me. Yet she will not send my file to the upper. This was years ago and it has gotten worse. I will never do a phone interview or meeting. It has caused me sever depression on top of everything else.
Dazell M.
As a Social Disability Advocate I understand peoples pain in dealing with the SSA. I havae had many people call and ask for help with there overpayments but don’t want to pay for thehelp. Social Security law is complex and is one of the most complex areas of law. SSA is not like any body of law where the rules apply. With SSAIt’s based on how someone is feeling at the time. As a Social Security advocate, I have the knowledge to handle any type of CHILDREN AND ADULT SSI/SSDI CASE NATIONWIDE. Very few attorneys and non-attorneys handle Overpayment cases because SSA don’t pay the representative to represent claimants, thus havingthe representative charge the client upfront for representation. The money you spend on representation on your overpayment claim is a investment in your future in maintaining your bnefits and possibly sustancially reducing what you owe and possibly eliminate your overpayment altogether.
Dazell Mallory
Baywide Disability
http://www.baywd.com
Call or fill out questionnaire for a free evaluation?
Dazell M.
Deb,
I am saddened about your situation in having to wait so long for benefits. As a non-attorney advocate, It is common for SSA to take a long time to process a claim. On average It can take about 21/2 years to fully process a claim. One of the biggest reasons for the long wait is that SSA is seriously under staffed and the backlog of claims is large.
If you or anyone you know is applying, waiting for a decision or faceing a Overpayment, feel free to forward my contact or you may visit my website at http://www.baywd.com and contact me ?
randy h.
I went thru the exact same thing and know how hard it is to get by on nearly nothing. I wish that everyone in the same boat as us would write a letter to Pres. Trump demanding that all the money that the obama adm. stole from S.S. be returned and all the illegal payouts to non citizens be stopped then raise the COLA where it should be. I cant afford to go to the dentist or the doctor because the suppliment to medicare cost almost as much as the check I get for disabillity for the month.
Jimmy b.
Thank you. I am under the poverty $ for 1, they know I am with 34 year old son lost everything, a friend. Yes. No help in the scams. No letter of denial EVER CAME. PLAY ASSHOLE WITH ME , I want a supervisor with a check to say no. If I can I am Washington bound. To fuq red headed step dink in CHARGE!WTF? Lightening hit him. Bless our nation, he will end it by playing with the bad kid on block…yep. Soviet and I am stating. We are going to because this THING TOOK HELP FROM COMMIES TO SCAM. ANYONE REALLY THINK HR GOT 51 percent dictoral college? Really. Numbers and dollars. ?
Joseph H.
I understand what your talking about. I too am the victim of false information going into my social security file. An Attorney claimed that she has an “:assignment” from a State Agency to Garnish my Social security for $350 each month – for life. It has taken me 11 years to gather enough information to prove that the attorney has lied but the lawyers has immunity so I will lose all of the money taken from me! So much for living in a “free society”.
Jimmy b.
Thank you. I am under the poverty $ for 1, they know I am with 34 year old son lost everything, a friend. Yes. No help in the scams. No letter of denial EVER CAME. PLAY ASSHOLE WITH ME , I want a supervisor with a check to say no. If I can I am Washington bound. To fuq red headed step dink in CHARGE!WTF? Lightening hit him. Bless our nation, he will end it by playing with the bad kid on block…yep. Soviet and I am stating. We are going to because this THING TOOK HELP FROM COMMIES TO SCAM. ANYONE REALLY THINK HR GOT 51 percent dictoral college? Really. Numbers and dollars. ? over emotion as I eat once every 2 days. I drink omg, tap h2o. a bread sandwich with tuna! My son got a blow job with no happy ending. No denial letter sent in mi. He had no idea, they fused up. I had the right legal bite already in MICH state. I was a med surgical nurse.
like y.
Work with the local office! Is that a joke? They aren’t qualified to make medical decisions! They rubber stamp “DENIED” on every claim. They are useless!
Ray F.
To clarify. Most Social Security disability claims are initially processed through a network of local Social Security Administration (SSA) field offices and State agencies (usually called Disability Determination Services or DDSs). The field office is responsible for verifying non-medical eligibility requirements, which may include age, employment, marital status, income, resources or Social Security coverage information. If the applicant meets these requirements, then we forward the application with any medical information provided by the applicant, to the Disability Determination Services. The field office does not make medical determinations. See Disability Determination Process for more information.
Anonymous
I started recieviing SS benefits after my discharge from the military. After the 2nd r 3rd year of receiving benefits I called the SS office and told them I may be able to go back to work. They asked if I was enrolled in college and I said yes. They told me not to call and that they would contact me when they would review my claim again. IAre these calls kept track of? Because if I am calling to update my status and that is the answer I am given on a few occasions what protects my rights if they investigate me later or during that time. I called to make them aware and protect myself , but I am not sure if these phone calls are recorded or documented, Anyone have an idea .
Ray F.
We THANK YOU for your service to our country. Social Security strongly supports those individuals who want to return to the work force while supplementing their disability benefit income. We have Work Incentives that allow people to work and still receive their benefits. If you get disability benefits and your condition improves or you return to work, report these changes to us by calling us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or contacting your local Social Security office. We hope this information helps.
Debra
I have reported a neighbor who falsely claimed that he was permanently injured and unable to work anymore because of a back injury. Well nothing was even done with this report I filed. He has bragged to others about how much he is receiving in benefits. Yet he is working for our mutual landlord, rehabing vacant apartments when they are vacated. This has involved painting, laying of tile floors, plumbing, such as installing new toilets, WHICH HE HAS CARRIED INTO THE APARTMENTS HIMSELF!! And when he has no work that needs to be done here he then, works under the table, for a man who owns a painting company! Well here it is now over a year later of my reporting this and NOTHING, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING, has changed and he is still doing all this and living quiet nicely I might add. When will you investigate this??? His name is Rolando Roldan, he lives at 70 Randolph Apt. 13, Dover, New Jersey 07801. The rest of us honest hard working people who like to know when this thief will be caught!
John W.
I tried calling 18007721213 last Monday between 7 and 7:30am EST and was told by the automated response that their office is closed. I called today Dec 5th. between 9am and 10am and was aslo told again that their office is closed and that i should call back Mon-Fri between starting at 7am, cant remember what time the machine said ssa closes.
Ray F.
We apologize for the inconvenience John. Our telephone system seems to be operating properly. Representatives at our toll free number 1-800-772-1213 are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7.p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later in the day, or later in the week. Remember, we respond to questions and provide general information on our Retirement, Survivors, Disability, Medicare and SSI programs. If you have a general question, we encourage you to ask here. But remember, never post personal information on social media. You can also create a my Social Security account to get estimates of your retirement, disability, and survivors benefits, and review your earnings record and the estimated Social Security and Medicare taxes you’ve paid. Thanks and please try again!
Tamia j.
Hi I believe that my payee is robbing me on use an agency that’s taking my money and supposed to put in and escrow account talking about its for future bills can they do this without out my permission? ?
Shareka L.
I applied for SSI benefits for my daughter in July she was removed and put into foster care for like 30 days she came home on a trial placement and she was recently approved. I want to know can dcfs stop me from getting her payments even tho she’s home with me
Ray F.
Hi Shareka, we are unable to provide an answer to your question. In your situation, it is best to contact your local field office. Or, you can call our toll free number, 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and ask to speak with one of our representatives, who are available Monday through Friday between 7:00am and 7:00pm. Thanks.
Jean
I need help i am trying to set up online account but it wont let me… i have tryed coupple times … can u please help me ….
Bill
Blah blah blah. All you get from these people are rhetorical trained generic responses. After four years of battle with these numnuts I finally won my case ( After dragging it to Supreme Court). AND still, a year leter I am waiting for my final payouts over the amout $17.000!!! Despite all, not a peep not a word.. Oh, and by the way, NEVER trust any attornies from Legal Aid of new Jersey.. I haven’t been able to contact him for over 5 months… Vicious hyenas have nothing on these people…
Sheryl
I answered a question wrong when I had my phone interview I called the next day to correct it and give the correct answer will this determine my approval and will I go to jail ??
Ray F.
Hi Sheryl. Social Security applicants and beneficiaries are required to give accurate information about their income, living arrangements, medical condition, and other things that affect eligibility for benefits. They also have to tell SSA when this information changes—for example, when they move, or start working. To follow up and to make sure that the correct information that you provided has been updated on your record, you can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, and speak to one of our agents. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later during the week. Thanks.
ken
well i been having sorta the same issues , but for a fact number onee, your local office doesnt always cooperate, secondly, when someone like myself has documented proof of coruption , not a soul to stand up fpr the disabled! as for the say what they t213 number, some wiill say what they want you to know, a rare few has compassion, but i was told by one last week,im only a field support, and besides all we are here is for people with active cases. you know what it blows hard.
Ricky
Your request is off topic, but don’t rely on just your computer for communication about your claim status. SSA will inform you of the nature of their decision by letter. If you haven’t recvd this by now, definitely call 800-772-1212 ask if if the letter is overdue & needs to be resent. Make sure SSA is sending this & all other mail to your current address. If a decision was made & you miss the expected appeal timeframe (60 days plus a few days extra for mailing), you’ll have to convince SSA in writing that you have “good cause” for submitting a late appeal (should that be necessary). Better not to go there!
Angel l.
Social security stealing my money and benefits lieing and said the social security did not do it and my money is dropping when it was going up and they took a chunk of my money and said the comminsoner stealing it.that also owe me a check they refuse to paid back.I also have a award letter saying I don’t paid for medicare and my vision act up from malpractice injury so they told me if I fill out paper from medicaid which I was told I also suppose to get medicaid that what the lawyer said that deal with the appeal for that.if you have email I can give you my personal email only so you can stop the fraud they doing to me you know the section code law stealing money from me.and I’m not allow to go or call them cause they file false police report on me and I have proof to give you of what they said and did to me I was assaulted and abuse by people in places cause it happen in both state that certain people of different kind that help to do that.what can you do for me I have court trying to fight the false report which my lawyer don’t want the proof maybe people with lawyers social workers since they refuse to help and judges and certain people the PD department and security officers and people that not part of the agency’s helping.they made me lose my job which I had needed it and turn off my insurances and made sure doctors not flushing and fixing what those people did I was also poison and treating by people in places cause they commuting crimes on the low would you like names of places and names so you can see what they about please reply thank you
Angel l.
And the agency’s acting funny too maybe they part of it how can you fix it you know the fraud law which they are accountable to the full punishhment of the section code law specailly to a us citizen asap I need my money fix what info you need of mine so you can fix it before it get out of hand they not trust worthy for me to call them so they can file another false report.what info you need of there so they can get pick up if not fix I don’t need people losing there jobs cause of others that dislike those who doing there job.they made me homeless I have no money to eat and my kids need things and hungry too can I send you the award letter on here or you have email so you can have them to fix it and deal with them too so they can drop the case with another agency with the same false report problem they doing when I have proof asap I need it fix I have bad side affect health problems which the doctor said I need plenty of bed rest and real meds to get rid of the bad health problem they cause thank you.
Angel l.
They refuse to give me another social security card and medicare card after being homeless for what they did to me and said the government in places stealing my money to paid there bills which they don’t do that I don’t know who part of it in places but please fix it and sent it to me thank you would you like my info do you have email private so you can stop it before others steal government funding for people I have info of places and you can stop it before its too late please hurry and message back and have them fix it asap I need my money fast I’m really really hungry and my kids need things too and with that I can find somewhere to stay thank you very so much please fix it take care
Angel l.
There criminal people that bothering me that receiving social security
D.S.
Yes there is, and it’s not right or fair.
Jessica o.
My father passed when I was thirteen I am now 26, but I was advised years ago about a check I should have received but didn’t and come to find out someone took my cheat and cashed it. I was not aware of this but after all these years is there something that could be done.
Kyle
I’m in the same boat as you. I was forced to leave at gun point by my step dad and lived on the streets until my friends father told me about the social security money I should’ve been getting. Turns out I lost close to $20,000 of my checks that were being cashed without me knowing. I got a years worth when I moved back into my mom but I’m still wondering about all the money I lost from them stealing it and if there’s anything I can do to get it back?
Ray F.
Thank you for your comment Kyle. The office of the Inspector General (OIG) investigates a variety of situations that may be considered fraud, such as when an individual misuses benefits when acting as a Representative Payee. Also, we will investigate all allegations of misuse, gather facts and evidence, and make a decision on whether misuse has occurred. Please call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to speak to one of our representatives. Or you can contact your local Social Security office. Thanks!
Kenneth L.
hey hes telling the truth. i benn fighting this issue since 2013, and wow.,in 2015 they said they had over paid me 10 dollars ,and took may and junes checks, i mean all of them.now i have proof on that but is there one person in ssa to stand up for u, i ink not ,and all the topics aplly when someone is taking whats not thiers to take
Ray F.
Hi Kenneth, we are sorry to hear of your situation and we understand your frustration. Unfortunately, your problem is a bit more than we can handle in this forum. For your security, we do not have access to information about overpayments on accounts in this venue. For more information and to learn about appeal and waiver rights, read our publication on “Overpayments“. For further assistance, you can call our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday but you will generally have a shorter wait time if you call later in the week. Thanks.
D.S.
Me and other family members have reported an individual numerous times and the individual has been punished one time, by having 75.00 deducted each month off original amount. The individuals child does not meet criteria to receive ssi income, the mother of child received benefits when child lived with father, which is not right, and the individual receives 1900.00 month in child support income and grosses over 500.00 a week…which if calculated correctly, she doesn’t qualify to even get ssi income. Attorneys have sent certified letters to ssi, Medicaid, and foodstamps, but yet, this individual still receives benefits. Who do we need to contact about this? All information backing up everything we say has been turned over to your office more than once. Also, child has not had vaccinations since 2010…she is 6 yrs old. Mother has not kept any appts that were ordered by dr., and 1800.00 worth of our tax payer dollars went to fitting and making this child ankle braces which mother has yet to pick up for the child. Something needs to be done about this. Child has mild EDS, double jointed. She has enrolled in cheer, swimming, dance, and yoga all paid for by the father. She has no restrictions as her type of EDS is mild and does not keep her from learning or participating in active sports.
karl
I feel your pain, am right their with you. We had huge issues with ss from the start, wife is disabled, our daughter never got her portion. We asked and asked, she’s just now getting it and now the wife is the ex and will spend it on herself. I wish I had never filed or heard of it, 25 years of paying now gone.
vbankows
There are alot of things that are looked at when applying for dissability. Your age and extent of your percieved dissability. I would wait before hiring an attorney to see what response you recieve. If you are awarded disability you will be paid from the date you filed the claim. If you are denied dissability I would then look contact an attorney.
Doug
I have meneires disease and an undiagnosed nerve disorder. After being denied twice It took 2 years before I saw an ALJ, she gave me fully favorable, without mush room for doubt as to why. Now they tell me its in “Quality review and will be another 10 months. This is utter BS. I have lost my house, my car,. sold every possession I have and now I will be homeless. Social Security is ridiculous in the time they take, and heres is a great one as well. I was approved as of may 2015 but I will only get 12 months backpay on my disability. Can you explain to me why I have to lose the other 7 months backpay due to them being slow? Also since it will be another 10 months according to the rep I spoke to, is that another 10 months disability im losing? It is all absolutely moronic.
Ray F.
We apologize for the delay and inconveniences you are experiencing, Doug. Unfortunately, but for security reasons, we do not have access to personal records in this blog. Please continue working with your local office. You can ask to speak with the manager to see how we can help to expedite resolution of your situation. If you are unable to visit the local office, you can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later in the week. Thanks.