Fraud within the Social Security disability system is rare, probably because Social Security has done a good job of investigating incidents of fraud. Although the existence of fraud remains rare, some people would have you believe that it is much more prevalent than it actually is.
We often see stories or accusations about fraudulent activities occurring within the Social Security disability process, but it should be known that these types of stories and incidents don’t happen often, but when they do they become big news. Any form of fraud within the system should be taken seriously. It is encouraged that anyone who may suspect an incident of fraud within the Social Security disability process should report it. The process of reporting an incident of fraud is fairly easy, below is Social Security’s explanation of how it investigates fraud and how people can report suspected fraud to the agency.
Focusing On Fraud
Social Security works aggressively to prevent, detect, and prosecute fraud Social Security, along with the Office of the Inspector General, identifies and aggressively prosecutes those who commit fraud. Our zero tolerance approach has resulted in a fraud incidence rate that is a fraction of one percent.
One of our most effective measures to guard against fraud is the Cooperative Disability Investigations program. Under the program, we investigate suspicious disability claims early, before making a decision to award benefits. In effect, we proactively stop fraud before it happens. In fiscal year 2018, with the help of state and local law enforcement, the program reported $188.5 in projected savings for the disability programs. Eradicating fraud is a team effort. We need people who suspect something to say something. If you suspect fraud, please contact the Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-269-0271 or visit https://oig.ssa.gov/report and go to Submit a Report.
