SSI Fraud Penalties

Supplemental Security Income fraud occurs when a person or group of people knowingly lies to obtain personal or business gain from the Social Security system. SSI fraud is a crime, and penalties are the same as fraud in other Social Security sponsored departments.

Fraudulent Acts

Fraud include stealing an identity for SSI benefits, concealment of a beneficiary's death in order to continue to receive SSI benefits and misuse of a beneficiary's funds. Feigning symptoms in order to receive benefits is also fraud.

Reporting Fraud

Suspected SSI fraud can be reported to a local Social Security office or by calling the SSA Fraud hot line at 800-269-0271.

Penalties

SSI fraud penalties include fines, prison or a combination of the two. Penalties depend on whether the case is a misdemeanor or a felony, and the court hearing.

Penalty Terms

Fines may reach a maximum of $250,000 and imprisonment of up to five years.

Lawyer Support

Defense lawyers in SSI fraud cases explore the criminal's options and protect the criminal's rights concerning the act of fraud.

References

• Social Security Fraud
• Social Security and Fraud

Resources

• About SSI