VA Employee Admits To Social Security Disability Fraud

Many government programs have to deal with fraud, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) is no exception. Many agencies have to scrutinize claims to ensure that information is correct. When fraud occurs, it can result in significant financial losses, which is why agencies need to always be on the lookout for abuse.

A New York man has pled guilty to fraud after filing a false Social Security disability claim. The 64-year-old man was working for the Veterans Affairs office in Albany at the time the fraud occurred.

On April 7, the Gloversville man pled guilty to submitting a false application for Social Security disability benefits. The man fraudulently received close to $85,000 in benefits. He also had more than $45,000 in repayments to the SSA erased.

The SSA accused the man of abusing a system designed to support those truly in need. The agency is committed to holding him and others who commit fraud accountable for their actions.

As a result of the fraud charge, the man faces up to five years in prison and up to three years of supervised release once he is out of prison. He could also face a fine as high as $250,000. The man’s sentencing has been set for August 5.

What to Know About Social Security Fraud

Social Security fraud refers to intentionally providing false information or withholding important facts to receive benefits from the Social Security Administration that you are not entitled to. Common types of fraud include:

• Identity theft: Using someone else’s Social Security number to apply for benefits, open accounts, or gain employment.
• Benefit fraud: Receiving payments you are not eligible for, such as:
  • Claiming disability while working.
  • Continuing to collect benefits for a deceased person.
  • Failing to report income or changes in living situation.
• Disability fraud: Falsely claiming a disability or exaggerating a condition to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
• Representative payee fraud: A person appointed to manage benefits (for a child or disabled adult) misuses those funds for personal gain.

Consequences for Social Security fraud can be severe and may include:

• Repayment of improperly received benefits.
• Civil fines and penalties.
• Loss of future benefits.
• Criminal charges, including prison time.

If you suspect fraud, you can report it anonymously. Contact the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General online via their fraud reporting form, by phone through their fraud hotline, or by mail.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

When fraud occurs, it makes it harder for those who are truly disabled to get the benefits they deserve in a timely manner.

If you are disabled and unable to work, you need benefits to pay for bills and daily living expenses. The law can be complex, but a White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon can assess your case and get you the help you need. Fill out the online form or call (914) 228-1770 to schedule a consultation.

Source:

wnyt.com/top-stories/gloversville-man-pleads-guilty-to-130k-social-security-fraud/