DOES SOCIAL SECURITY SPY ON YOU?

Is Social Security known to spy on (investigate) persons who apply for disability?

The answer is: Yes, sometimes.

Social Security has been known to have investigators follow claimants as they go to doctors offices for consultative examinations. These are the exams that Social Security schedules and pays for as part of the disability process.

It is known that Social Security searches claimants' social media accounts. Be discrete about posts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc. Judges can read these before making a decision on disability claims. In fact, Congress has urged judges to read these sites. Social Security assumes that claimants will lie to them.

Whenever suspected fraud is reported Social Security investigates. If a neighbor, friend, family member--or anyone else--calls Social Security to report some type of fraud, it will get checked out.

I'm not suggesting that every claimant will be investigated by having someone park near his/her house and take pictures. I'm sure it does not happen in every case. But they can do that if they want to.

If a person continues to work after applying for disability benefits--and fails to tell Social Security--they will know. Employers are required to withhold FICA tax and send it to Social Security with the employee's name and Social Security number. Therefore, nearly all work is reported to the government almost immediately.

My best advice to anyone who applies for disability benefits: Be honest. Don't lie or exaggerate your symptoms or functional restrictions. Give Social Security an accurate description of your condition and what you are able to do in terms of activity. You should describe your restrictions and limitations--but honestly. These activities are usually reported on a form called "Function Report - Adult," which is completed with the application. If your case goes to an appeal hearing, the judge will question you about the type of activities you can perform.

If you are honest with Social Security you have no reason to fear an investigation.