How Do You Know if Social Security is Investigating You?
If you’re under investigation for fraud, the SSA can be really discreet about it. Here are some of the telltale signs that social security is spying on you:
1. You notice someone constantly following you around
As mentioned, the SSA will usually send someone to observe you while you go about your day. They follow you in public places, including your workplace (if you’re working).
Their main goal is to find out whether you really are disabled. So they’ll take note of your capacities and limitations, including:
- your capacity to work
- lift heavy objects
- stand or sit for a long time
- walk long distances
- function without assistance or assistive devices
Sometimes, they’ll even keep an eye on you right outside your house.
2. Someone is asking your acquaintances about your disability
Aside from observing you, the SSA investigator may also interview your neighbors, family members, and friends. Most of the time, they’ll introduce themselves before asking questions.
So if your family, friends, or neighbors tell you that someone is inquiring about you and your disability, there’s a good chance they’re from the SSA.
3. Your social media accounts are being spied on
Social media is free for all and most of the time, it’s impossible to determine if someone is spying on your account.
If your profile and photos are set to private, SSA investigators may not be able to see them. But tagged photos from friends are another story, especially if they’re set to public. If you claim to be disabled but your tagged photos show that you’re perfectly capable of doing things, they could be used as evidence of fraud.
4. Someone is trying to take a video or photo of you
Unless you’re famous, someone taking photos or videos of you is highly unusual. So if you notice someone trying to snap a photo of you out of nowhere while you’re working or doing something, they could be from the SSA.
How Often Does the SSA Spy on You?
Disability Reviews are usually held every three to six years depending on your disability. If your condition is expected to improve, you’ll receive a CDR notice after a few years. But if no improvement can be expected, disability reviews will be less frequent.
SSI Redeterminations, on the other hand, are typically conducted every 1 to 6 years. But they may also conduct one when you report a change that can affect your eligibility or payment amount.
Fraud investigations don’t really have a set frequency. They’ll only conduct one if they suspect you’re committing fraud.
What to Do if the SSA is Investigating You
If you’re not lying about your disability or financial situation, there’s no need to do anything. The more you try to convince your investigators, the more suspicious it will look.
All you can do at this point is wait for the investigation results. If you don’t agree with their findings, you can hire an experienced social security disability lawyer like Victor Malca. For over 20 years, he’s been helping disabled individuals in Florida get disability benefits. He knows the SSA’s rules and regulations like the back of his hand. So he can help you defend your case and get back the benefits you rightfully deserve. Call us now for a free consultation.
