How to Effectively Deal with Social Security Fraud

Social Security fraud does not come often, but the consequences can be devastating when it does. Social Security fraud uses false information on claims for social security benefits. This can include lying about work history, income, Medicare coverage, dependents, and more. The most obvious type of fraud is the use of false information when filing for benefits. The problem is that there is a lack of accurate information about how to deal with this type of crime effectively. Here is how to effectively detect and deal with social security fraud.

1. Safeguard Crucial Documents

It is of the utmost importance to safeguard any documents used to prove your claim for benefits. The first step is to ensure that there is a secure storage facility. You should also make sure that you have copies of anything important. If you do need to submit an original, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) ahead of time to have them make duplicates for you. This will help avoid the document from landing in the hands of a fraudster.

2. File a Complaint with the SSA

You can do several things if you find yourself the victim of social security fraud. First, if there is any suspicious activity, contact the SSA immediately. Contact a local law enforcement agency if you feel it will not work to do that. You can also file a complaint with the SSA. This helps to alert the agency to any new fraudulent activity.

3. File a Lawsuit

You can file a lawsuit in addition to filing an administrative complaint with the SSA. This is because it is not that difficult to prove fraud has occurred. If you can show documented proof of fraudulent activity, your claim will be put on hold while an investigation takes place. You should be ready for this step and have your attorney set up all relevant documents in advance. You can contact Law firms such as Kingston Fox, a group of reliable criminal lawyers Sydney residents rely on during such situations.

4. Keep Tabs on Your Credit

Those performing social security fraud will often go online to access your credit report. This is because some may think it is an excellent way to clean up their image. It would be best to keep tabs on your credit report to prevent this from happening. You should also monitor any suspicious activity in the mail, phone, or even at your home.

5. Be Aware of Scams Related to Social Security Fraud

There are many scam artists out there looking for people to defraud. You should be aware of the various scams linked to social security fraud. This can help you avoid being scammed. One such scam is trying to sell you a product or service that will allow you to get your money back on your investment within a few hours or days. It may sound like a good deal, but this is not what it is really about. The scam artist will want you to keep buying the product or service but will make it sound like you can get your money back quickly.