While identity theft can cause serious problems, it can be particularly harmful to people who receive benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA).
We have seen cases where individuals receiving disability benefits were suddenly cut off because someone else was using their Social Security Number (SSN) to report wages. When this happens, the Social Security Administration may consider you to be working and earning income, which may affect your eligibility for benefits. If you suspect someone has stolen your identity or is using your SSN for work, you should take the following steps immediately:
1. Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA)
First, check your earnings history by creating a mySocialSecurity account on the SSA website. Once logged in, you can view your earnings history to ensure that all earnings listed are yours. If you see a salary you don't recognize, it may be a sign that someone is using your SSN for employment. Report employment-related identity theft. If there is an error in your income on your record, please contact the SSA immediately to investigate and correct it. The SSA can help ensure that your benefits reflect your true work history and not someone else’s.
2. Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission
Visit IdentityTheft.gov (the official federal website for reporting identity theft) and submit a report. Follow the instructions to file an identity theft report. This report will become part of your official documentation of the theft. From there, get a personalized recovery plan. Once you submit your report, the website will generate a customized recovery plan to help you repair the damage. This may include creating an FTC identity theft report, which you can use to dispute fraudulent accounts or incorrect payroll reports.
protect yourself moving forward
To help prevent your disability benefits from being interrupted due to identity theft, remember to take these proactive steps:
1. Check your Social Security earnings records regularly. Set a reminder to review your earnings history through your mySocialSecurity account at least once a year. Make sure all wages listed are yours. Even small differences, such as an employer you don't recognize or higher-than-expected income, could be a sign that someone is using your Social Security number. Catching these problems early can prevent bigger problems later.
2. Keep your Social Security number safe. Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet and only share your SSN when necessary. Unless you are sure who you are dealing with, use caution when posting information by phone, email, or online. Scammers often pretend to be government agencies or legitimate companies to trick people into revealing personal information.
3. Monitor your mail and benefit payments. Be aware of any unexpected changes to your monthly benefit amount or letters from the SSA regarding wages, work activities, or overpayments. These may be warning signs that someone is reporting income in your name. If a problem occurs, contact SSA immediately to verify the information.
4. Use strong passwords and account protection tools. When setting up your mySocialSecurity account, choose a strong password and enable two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security and helps protect your online accounts from unauthorized access.
5. Be wary of scams. Be wary of calls, text messages, or emails claiming to be from the SSA, IRS, or other government agencies requesting payment or personal information. The SSA will never threaten you, suspend your Social Security number, or demand payment in gift cards or cryptocurrency.
By remaining vigilant and reviewing your records regularly, you can help protect your benefits and gain peace of mind from identity theft.
Michigan Disability Lawyers Fighting for You
At Michigan Disability Lawyers, our team proudly represents people with disabilities who need Social Security disability benefits. Whether you are considering applying, or have been refused and are appealing the decision, we are here to help.
Please submit a form online today or contact us at 800-949-2900 for a free case evaluation.
