Q. Where do I report fraud being committed against Social Security? Is there a reward?
A. The Social Security Administration's Office of the Inspector General is the law enforcement agency that investigates allegations of fraud involving Social Security and Supplemental Security Income. Report suspected fraud to SSA's OIG.
There is no reward except the prevention of the waste of your tax dollars.
OIG reviews each allegation carefully to determine whether a criminal investigation is needed. OIG's investigators work with Postal Inspectors, FBI and INS agents, and local police to investigate suspected fraud. Some investigations result in arrests, convictions and jail sentences.
Reports of suspected fraud may be anonymous. But reporters must describe suspected violations and identify alleged violators. Include as much information as possible: the violator's address, telephone number and Social Security number.
If the Social Security number is unknown, include other identifying information--as much as possible--such as the date of birth, place of birth, and parents' names. That information will help OIG locate the suspect's Social Security number.
Reports of concealed work activity should include--if known--the name of the employer, employer's address and phone number, and the approximate date when the work activity began. The more specific the details, the better the investigation can be. Photos and videos are often helpful, too. (Remember that Social Security encourages disabled people to return to work, but disabled workers must report their work activity to Social Security.)
OIG investigates false statements on applications for benefits, concealment of material facts or events, misuse of benefits by representative payees and false statements on applications for Social Security numbers. OIG also investigates misconduct by Social Security employees.
However, OIG does not assist with applications for benefits. Applicants who disagree with Social Security's decisions should request appeals.
Report suspicions of fraud by phone: 1-800-269-0271, by mail: Social Security Office of the Inspector General P.O. Box 17768 Baltimore MD 21235, via fax: (410) 597-0118, or by email: oig.hotline@ssa.gov.
Report suspected fraud or abuse involving Medicare to the Health Care Financing Administration: 1-800-638-6833.