Dozens Arrested In Connection To Social Security Disability Fraud

August 26, 2013

Last week, a total of 75 people were arrested in connection to fraudulent claims for Social Security Disability Benefits being made in Puerto Rico. Experts say that these fraudulent claims only make the process more difficult for those with legitimate claims to get the assistance they need.

According to The Washington Times, the fraudulent claims would be made by a Social Security Administration (SSA) employee after the individual received a payment of up to $6,000. Then, for a cost of up to $500, a doctor would declare an individual unable to work due to a mental health condition.

These fraudulent claims can keep those who are most in need of help from getting the assistance they need in several ways. These claims take time away from processors focusing on legitimate claims, which has helped lead to the massive backlog of unprocessed applications that are still awaiting a decision. Also, fraudulent claims typically lead to lawmakers enacting stiffer regulations on how benefits should be dispersed, creating more red tape for those with legitimate claims to have to cut.

The Social Security Disability Lawyers with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin recognize the complexities that can accompany filing a claim for benefits. That is why the firm suggests discussing your legal rights with an attorney if you are considering applying for benefits or have a claim that was denied in the past.