Last week, 75 people were arrested in connection to fraudulent claims for Social Security Disability Benefits being made in Puerto Rico. Experts say these fraudulent claims only make it more difficult for those with legitimate claims to get the assistance they need.
According to The Washington Times, fraudulent claims would be made by a Social Security Administration (SSA) employee after the individual receives 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 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 led to a massive backlog of unprocessed applications 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 cut.
The Social Security Disability Lawyers with Newlin Disability recognize the complexities that can accompany filing a claim for benefits. 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.
