How to Report Social Security Fraud by Mail

The Social Security Administration (SSA) takes Social Security fraud very seriously. They define fraud as any circumstance where an individual wrongly receives and accepts Social Security benefits or purposely misstates their circumstances in order to quality for benefits. The SSA's Office of the Inspector General (OIG) investigates charges of fraud and seeks prosecution against perpetrators. To aid in their investigations, the OIG relies on people to report cases of abuse.

Instructions

1. Determine if the type of fraud is under the authority of the Social Security Administration. The type under its authority includes any situation under which an individual wrongly receives and accepts Social Security benefits. Specific types of fraud include working while receiving disability benefits, receiving benefits for a child not under their care, receiving benefits for an individual who is deceased and receiving Supplemental Security Income Payments while residing overseas

2. Carefully gather all information related to the fraudulent activities. The greater amount of information provided to Social Security, the easier for the OIG to conduct an investigation. You have a right to remain anonymous, but doing so may impede the OIG's ability to investigate.

3. Write a letter to the Social Security Administration. Include in the letter information on who committed the fraud and who was a victim of the fraud. List their full names, addresses, phone numbers, date of birth and Social Security numbers, or as much of the information available. Also include a detailed explanation of the fraudulent acts, when they occurred, where they occurred, other individuals who may be aware of the acts and if you know why the fraud was committed.

4. Mail the letter to:

   Social Security Fraud Hotline

   P.O. Box 17768

   Baltimore, Maryland 21235

5. Do not report Medicare or Medicaid fraud to Social Security. Medicaid fraud is investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services. Do not report identity theft to Social Security. Identity theft is regulated by the Federal Trade Commission.

References

• Social Security Administration OIG fraud reposting
• Social Secuirty Administration guidelines for fraud reposting
• US Atorney's Office report on social security fraud