Social Security Fraud Allegations Clarified

Many allegations of social security fraud or malfeasance are blown way out of proportion.
Social Security Fraud Allegations Clarified
There is a lot of false information about social security out there. Panchenko Vladimir/Shutterstock
Tom Margenau
Updated:
0:00

There is so much misinformation about the Social Security program and the conduct of the Social Security Administration that I simply cannot keep up with it. I feel bad because I'd like to write my normal columns in which I help my readers understand the intricacies of the program so that they can make the right choices when they file for Social Security benefits. But because of all the misinformation out there right now, I just feel compelled to respond. Besides, more than a few readers have asked me to help them sort through all the craziness.

Today I’m going to address two recent allegations of supposed fraud or malfeasance. One involves alleged direct deposit fraud. The other involves incorrect payments to Social Security beneficiaries. As you will see, in both instances, the allegations have been blown way out of proportion.

Tom Margenau
Tom Margenau
Author
Tom Margenau worked for 32 years in a variety of positions for the Social Security Administration before retiring in 2005. He has served as the director of SSA’s public information office, the chief editor of more than 100 SSA publications, a deputy press officer and spokesman, and a speechwriter for the commissioner of Social Security. For 12 years, he also wrote Social Security columns for local newspapers, and recently published the book “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” If you have a Social Security question, contact him at [email protected]