SSI Fraud Protection

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

One of the three major programs implemented by the Social Security Administration, the Supplemental Security Income benefits aim to impart sustainable financial aids and basic needs security for the deprived, disabled and aged population. For the last five years, approximately more than six and a half million Americans receive their monthly SSI checks, amounting to almost $30 billion every year.

Meanwhile, a variety of complex rules makes it harder for the SSA to administer the SSI program, much difficult than Retirement and Disability benefits. Aside from an individual’s medical eligibility, the SSA also examines his financial capability comprehensively – whether he may be classified among those who may be called as “very poor”. Only then, when the SSA has well determined the applicant’s inadequate financial capability, does he can be eligible for SSI benefits.

However, despite the enormous advantages of this government program, various cases of SSI frauds and abuses are being reported. These create great impact on the Social Security funds that are supposed to be given in support of those deserving of monetary assistance.

Actions Made to Enhance SSI Fraud Protection

Because many of the possible beneficiaries of SSI are those indigent people with not much educational attainment, these individuals have become the open target of fraudulent activities. Wrongdoers can easily manipulate these people since a number of them does not even talk and understand English.

Thus, the government is continuously looking some other effective measures to protect the welfare of the SSI beneficiaries, especially those who are financially deprived. With the authority vested on the SSA, they have increased the civil monetary penalty to $5,000 per violation and the assessment, double the benefit amount erroneously paid to a person. This imposition of new rules is to give lesson to those who continuously defraud the SSI program.

Hiring an Advocate Representative

In addition to all the efforts made to improve SSI fraud protection, it is also helpful to have a consultation with an authorized Social Security Attorney before filing an SSI application. This is to be certain about a claimant’s qualifications and prevent those outlaws from deceiving him. Nonetheless, an expert advocate’s assistance is also necessary, particularly for those who have not much knowledge about the procedures of filing an SSI application.

San Fernando Valley - (Satellite Office)

5850 Canoga Ave., Suite 400
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
1-818-401-4747
info@mesriani.com