How to Turn in Social Security Fraud

Social Security fraud is any act, misrepresentation, or omission thereof, by an individual with the intent to defraud the social security system. This may include, but is not limited to, various types of fraud involving social security, disability, retirement and/or survivor benefits. The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) at the Social Security Administration (SSA) receives, investigates and prosecutes social security fraud crimes. If someone is taking advantage of any social security program, report the suspected fraud to the OIG. Federal law provides harsh penalties for individuals found guilty of this crime.

Instructions

1. Gather evidence of the suspected social security fraud, which includes, but is not limited to, the suspect’s name and address and any relevant information. The more information you can gather about the suspected fraud, the better the chances for the OIG to investigate and prosecute the suspect.

2. Visit the Fraud Reporting Form page (see Resources) on the Social Security Administration's website.

3. Choose the “Confidentiality and Anonymity is not requested” option if you would like to assist the OIG with additional details of the suspected crime, if needed. Select the “I wish to remain Anonymous” if you do not want to be contacted by the OIG; choose the “I wish to remain Confidential” if you would like to be contacted for additional information but would prefer that your information is kept confidential.

4. Complete the form by typing into the various fields, making sure to provide as much detail as possible under Section II-A if you are reporting an individual, or Section II-B if you are reporting a business.

5. Submit the form by selecting the “Submit Form” button.

Tips & Warnings

• You may also report the suspected fraud in writing by sending your complaint to:

• Social Security Fraud Hotline

• P.O. Box 17768

• Baltimore, Maryland 21235

• You must complete the Fraud Reporting Form within 60 minutes. If the form is not completed and submitted within this time, you will be timed out and disconnected from the server.

References

• SSA: Fraud Hotline
• SSA: About the OIG

Resources

• SSA: Fraud Reporting Form