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.
Blog comments
If they were in jail for more
If they were in jail for more then 30 days and did not report it and still recieved benefits, that is fraud correct?!?
In reply to If they were in jail for more by Anonymous (not verified)
Hi there,
Hi there,
This may be considered fraud if they purposely did not report this to the SSA. Regardless, the SSA can ask for the money back if they believe you were overpaid.
I have a neighbor that said
I have a neighbor that said he hurt his back and neck in army and has had surgery for both. Was getting 80% disability and just this year went for 100%. He has 4 kids and gets over 1000 a month for them.He works outside does everything as a normal person does. Just last year him and his wife ripped off they`re roof to they`re home and put on new roof on themselves. He carried the large bundles of roofing himself up the ladder.Just couple months ago him and another guy cut trees down in his yard and he had no problem using the chainsaw cutting up trees. I could go on and on.He has these surgery`s so he could up his disability and not long after he`s back doing stuff like anyone that has nothing wrong, It`s not fair to people that need it.
In reply to I have a neighbor that said by Mary (not verified)
Hi Mary,
Hi Mary,
To report Social Security benefits fraud, you can mail a letter here:
Social Security Fraud Hotline
P.O. Box 17768
Baltimore, Maryland 21235
You can also go to the SSA's website for more information about reporting fraud online as well.
Hi My mom has been and still
Hi My mom has been and still is stealing my monthly check or money every month and I need to know how to make her stop what should I do or who should I see or what should I do about it or what Please help me I am tired of going month to month broke and its all due to her Thank you so much
In reply to Hi My mom has been and still by Walter Acosta (not verified)
Hi Walter,
Hi Walter,
If your mother is your representative payee, it may be a good idea to contact the SSA and have it changed to someone that would ensure that the money you receive is used for your needs.
A neighbor bought the home
A neighbor bought the home next door, introduced himself to be disabled with a back injury from work collects Disability and doesn't work, but he has been able to gut his house and is currently putting a fence up and plans on putting on a new roof. We don't get along because he and his partner are always yelling at us out of the blue. We would like to file a report but I have a question. Would we get into trouble or fined if we filed a report and it is unfounded?
In reply to A neighbor bought the home by nosey neighbor (not verified)
Hi there,
Hi there,
The SSA may not penalize people for making reports in good faith.
Is it fraud when I know a
Is it fraud when I know a person who's 4 year old son gets ssi and all she does is go out and smokes weed with the money and she has lied about paying rent at a place she doesn't even live there
In reply to Is it fraud when I know a by Ron (not verified)
Hi Ron,
Hi Ron,
It may be fraud if she had lied to the SSA regarding her place of residence.
Can you video the person
Can you video the person committing the fraud without sound? This guy gets SSI because of his back and uses a splitting maul he sells firewood! I have reported him numerous times on here anonymously and seems to me they must warn him about being reported because all of a sudden he will lay low and get other people to come and work for him just until he feels safe again! He is splitting his wood and stacking it as I type this! Something is definitely wrong why they haven't caught him!!! I mean I have filled out numerous complaints but will not give up my identity.. I'm not one for wanting to see people in trouble either..I work and I am a tax payer!!!
In reply to Can you video the person by Penny (not verified)
Hi Penny,
Hi Penny,
You may be able to send any evidence you have to the SSA here:
Social Security Fraud Hotline
P.O. Box 17768
Baltimore, Maryland 21235
In reply to Hi Penny, by Bryan
Isn't it illegal for me
Isn't it illegal for me to video him using his splitting maul, chainsaw and what have you? Then if I do submit the evidence then don't I have to come forward and give up my identity? I can't give up my identity because I would fear for retaliation of some sort.
In reply to Isn't it illegal for me by Penny (not verified)
Hi Penny,
Hi Penny,
You can report anonymously from the SSA's fraud reporting website, and you can also send a letter without any identifying information and the evidence to the SSA here:
Social Security Fraud Hotline
P.O. Box 17768
Baltimore, Maryland 21235
If someone is trying to get
If someone is trying to get disability from Military an says he is not working when he goes to every appointment but is and has been working 2 jobs the whole time can he get in trouble?
In reply to If someone is trying to get by lisa (not verified)
HI Lisa,
HI Lisa,
The military does rate people on a sliding scale of disability, which may include the ability to work civilian jobs. I really could not say that this person is committing fraud because I do not have all the details.
what if you know someone on
what if you know someone on odsp and they are married but saying they are seperated when they really are not ? and have been living together the whole time ?
In reply to what if you know someone on by Anonymous (not verified)
Hi there,
Hi there,
Misrepresenting your marital status or living arrangement may be considered fraud by the SSA.
He states when he goes in he
He states when he goes in he can only move so much cant bend over. He states he hasnt been working. He has been working full time and had to pass physical training in the academy to get his job now. I know there are medical things wrong with him from surgery and he should get disability for that but he can and actually out perform people in his class and is recognized as one of the most fit at his job now. I just dont think telling VA he is not working so it looks like his injuries are worse is ok.
In reply to He states when he goes in he by Lisa (not verified)
Hi Lisa,
Hi Lisa,
To report this, you can contact the VA here:
www.va.gov/oig/contact
and what if her husband works
and what if her husband works and living in the same house n has a few things in his name goin to "her" address? she can.work but chooses to sit at home all day instead smoking weed and playing on the computer....sge had a tumor removed 20 plus yrs ago thats how long they have been sayin they seperated for wennthey have beennliving together the entire time ?
In reply to and what if her husband works by Anonymous (not verified)
Hi there,
Hi there,
To report any suspected Social Security Disability fraud, you can go here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
Hi I know someone who's
Hi I know someone who's been living in Mexico for 5 years and still collects Social Security Income. Every month this person crosses the states to deposit his check and heads back home to Mexico. Is this illegal and how do I report it?
In reply to Hi I know someone who's by Aurora (not verified)
Hi Aurora,
Hi Aurora,
You can find some more information about receiving disability benefits outside the US here:
http://www.disability-benefits-help.org/faq/can-I-keep-my-social-securi…
Is it illegal for a person to
Is it illegal for a person to get disability benefits and put money in another persons name? This was handled this way because the benefits are based on assets and they wanted to appear that they had less so they would receive more per month. Is this legal?
In reply to Is it illegal for a person to by Ann (not verified)
Hi Ann,
Hi Ann,
Hiding assest for the purpose of obtaining more money from the SSA may be fraud. To report fraud, you can fill out the SSA's form here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
Would a person using illegal
Would a person using illegal drugs and not taking meds before going to Dr be fraud? My ex bf doesn't take his insulin or prostate meds before he goes to Dr so his numbers are high and his prostate is swollen and why aren't people getting disability drug tested?
In reply to Would a person using illegal by Me (not verified)
Hi there,
Hi there,
Those things may be considered fraud if he is purposely trying to obtain benefits based off manipulating his test results. As far as drug testing, it would be extremely expensive, and most people receiving disability benefits are not using illicit drugs. To report fraud, you can use this online form:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
I have a question my ex
I have a question my ex husband is receiving benefits has since 2008. He started receiving them cause at the time he had a heart condition that stopped him from working. But for 3 years now he is also working doing a labor job so he is able to work but is still receiving benefits. is this re portable or not?
In reply to I have a question my ex by Nicole (not verified)
Hi Nicole,
Hi Nicole,
It may be if he is not allowed to work, you may want to contact the SSA to report this.
My brothers girlfriend is in
My brothers girlfriend is in the process of trying to collect SS. Shes only in her early 50's but claims she has fibromyalgia! They both live with my elderly father and haven't worked in 4 yrs. they have been fleecing him out of his entire retirement and went as far as to get a reverse mortgage behind everyones back. Now she's trying to get SS. Problem is she cleans houses when my dads check hadnt gotten to his account yetand asked me to give her name to my friends. My brother is the same way. I believe he's trying to get disability but does under the table landscaping on occasion. I don't want these losers stealing anymore money they're not entitled to. Is it possible to file a claim before the person actually gets SS?
In reply to My brothers girlfriend is in by Megan (not verified)
Hi Megan,
Hi Megan,
To report any suspected disability fraud, you can go here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
I know someone on SSI that
I know someone on SSI that made $30,000 last year under the table owns there own home just bought a new camper and trailer ontop of not one but 5 horses. And is looking into buying another one. I would like to report them but someone said that what they are doing is not illegal. Does anyone here know if owning horses and buying all these campers and trailers etc while on SSI ok? It's sad my husband and I bust our butts and can't even afford to buy a new to us vehicle but people like them can buy whatever they want
In reply to I know someone on SSI that by Ayricka (not verified)
Hi Ayrika,
Hi Ayrika,
If you are sure that this person is on SSI benefits and does not meet the income and financial resource limits, the you can go here to file a report:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
Collecting total disability
Collecting total disability from an illness he had a number of years ago. Works Monday through Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; owns the barbershop (probably in his parents name as is his vehicle and the house he lives in); rents space to two other stylists who pay in cash; does much of his business in cash but does have a square.com account that deposits directly into his checking account at BBT in Beckley, WV. I have filed a complaint via proper channels and still this continues. Barbers are stylists are very easy to catch and supposedly WV is cracking down on disability fraud. I am not seeing evidence of this. This is a 46-year old man who lives with his mom and dad, gives them all of the cash he collects at the end of the day and moves 1800.00 of his disability check into an account he shares with his parents.
In reply to Collecting total disability by Kendra (not verified)
hi Kendra,
hi Kendra,
The amounts you cite seem like this person is receiving SSDI benefits, which do not have a limit for unearned income (unearned income that he receives from owning his business, in this case). It's also possible to work a limited amount, and it's understandable that a small business owner would like to be at his business pretty frequently. This may not be fraud, but if you feel that this is, then you can report him here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
What about a father that
What about a father that stays home smokes and drinks ,cracks front screen door pisses on door let's it run down too the ground and opens back door and pisses on the porch the main walk way into the house ,refuses to take a shower takes off shirt nipples chest and belly start to turn black hands all yellow from smoking cigs never washs hands to eat or cook
In reply to What about a father that by Harris (not verified)
Hi Harris,
Hi Harris,
Unfortunately, bad hygiene may not be considered fraud by the SSA.
19643.bloom..and the house
..and the house next door. Where Georgeio pearson..sqauts..and..uses..innocent..this needs to be reported. .....his house where. He sqats. Is the brick from ftamed house next door with dog in the yard ....the dog dont bite...he is hungry..but why. Tax dollars taking care of cons..syreet people needs..any one whom is smart enouth to use thr system...buy and trade..sell.drugs..womans..and..hussle. ..know how to eat walk..sleep..hold a job..and living free while he laught. At how dumm the systems. Is be he get a free check...he pawns his thingd to keep money flowing looks good..so iy dont look like he useing gov..money..to buy..his whole first of the month check on drugs..buying and selling. Weed .pills..lean...cocain..liquors everday for the....IM GOING TO DRIVE A TRUCK..WHEN.IT ALL OVER A RANGE ROVER..WHY HE GET TO GET AWAY WITH PLAY MIND GAMES TO GET WHAT HE WANTS...HE ISED ME TO SPEAK UP FOR HIM TO HIS LAWYER SOME WHITE LADY.....I FELT SORRY. FOR HIM..BUT OVER THE YEARS WATCHING HIM........OH HE IS VERY GOOD AT BEATING THE SYSTEM. ....MY SECOND REPORT....I CALLED POLICE. AND NOTHING WAS DONE...THEY NEVER CAME OUT..VOID...MANY TIMES IV CALLED AND NO ONE CAME OUT...
In reply to 19643.bloom..and the house by Anonymous (not verified)
Hi there,
Hi there,
You can report him to the SSA here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
What about a husband and wife
What about a husband and wife not living together, the husband goes to jail, and the wife gets his money for 7 months without permission from him or anyone. His disability goes on the card that SS issues.He demanded his card back, she refused. He sent his mother to her house to get the card, she said she wasnt divorced from him and wasnt going to stop using it, even knowing that the SS laws do not allow you to recieve money if your in jail over 30 days. She said it was hers then. She got almost $8.000 in 6 months.She went to jail for 90 days and had her mother come to the jail to get his SS bank card, and she went to get money also.
In reply to What about a husband and wife by anonymous (not verified)
Hi there,
Hi there,
You may want to report this to the SSA, you can use this form here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
First question... When a
First question... When a person applies for benefits can they receive more if they have children?
In reply to First question... When a by Lynn (not verified)
Hi Lynn,
Hi Lynn,
They may be eligible for auxiliary benefits if the person is applying for SSDI disability benefits.
A woman I've known for
A woman I've known for 12 years recieves disability for her back and plantar fasciitis. This is concerning to me because I see her gardening and lifting heavy objects almost daily for hours at a time.
Recently I witnessed her shopping for over 6 hours, non stop, never once complaining even though I did it was hard! Then in a swimming she goes and shows me she can put her foot on top of her head!! With hip,back and foot problems!! Makes me angry when she insists we use her placard to park when I know she can walk. It's just not right!!
In reply to A woman I've known for by Patricia (not verified)
Hi Patrica,
Hi Patrica,
You may want to contact the social security administration about this, you can do so by sending a letter here:
Social Security Fraud Hotline
P.O. Box 17768
Baltimore, Maryland 21235
Well I know some one is
Well I know some one is receiving I seen movement of drug she try to keep it in the low I have pictures of her lawing The grass I have camera around my House I just have some more info but this is her tag number y'all take from there keep close look out for her she very snicky and she is very good on convincing people
In reply to Well I know some one is by Cynthia (not verified)
Hi Cynthia,
Hi Cynthia,
To report fraud, you can use the SSA's form, which can be found here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
I get so fed up with the
I get so fed up with the system. I know a man who is collecting shelter plus (a government sponsor rental assistance that many single parents can not even get on)Has his girlfriend living with him She works full time, he works under the table, owns two vehicles, a brand new Harley Davidson and a Trailblazer.On top of all this he is collecting disability and I know for a fact that he is not reporting the extra income. I reported him to the Rochester Housing Authority, supplied notarized letters from several people who are upstanding within the community, along with pictures and bank statements to support this (I am the woman who lived with him for 4 years) and they did absolutely nothing about it. What angers me is that I am a single female working for a non profit organization, supporting myself along with paying student loans When I looked at my pay and seen that almost 500.00 was taken in taxes, I wanted to scream. I agree that this is one reason why people dont report. If the County level doesn't give a damn then what make us thing the State Cares/
In reply to I get so fed up with the by Tina (not verified)
Hi Tina,
Hi Tina,
I'm sorry to hear about that! It can be frustrating. If you have not already, you may want to contact the SSA regarding this, you can use this form here:
http://oig.ssa.gov/report
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