Author: MarkJPalmiere

Report Suspected SSDI Fraud

If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a scam or are a victim of fraud related to SSDI, report it immediately: SSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG): Call their fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 or submit a report online at

By Posted in Social Security Facts

Be Aware of Common SSDI Scam Tactics

  Threats and Urgency: Scammers often use scare tactics, such as threatening arrest, legal action, or benefit suspension, to pressure you into immediate action. Demands for Specific Payment Methods: The SSA will never ask for payment via gift cards, wire

By Posted in Social Security Facts

Enable Security Blocks on Your SSA Account

More ways to safeguard an SSA account from scammers and fraudsters: eServices block: This prevents anyone, including you, from seeing or changing your personal information online. You’ll need to contact your local office to remove it. Direct Deposit Fraud Prevention

By Posted in Social Security Facts

Protect Your Social Security Number (SSN)

Here are some tips on keeping your SSN safe and secure: Do not routinely carry your physical Social Security card. Be cautious about who you give your SSN to and always ask why it’s needed, how it will be used,

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Verify Contact Information Directly with the SSA: Part 2

Instead, independently verify the contact by visiting the SSA’s official website at www.ssa.gov or calling their verified customer service number at 1-800-772-1213. The real SSA will not rush you into making decisions or threaten legal action over the phone. Taking

By Posted in Social Security Facts

Verify Contact Information Directly with the SSA

If you get an email, phone call, or letter that claims to be from the Social Security Administration but seems suspicious, it’s important not to take the communication at face value. Scammers often use fake phone numbers, spoofed caller IDs,

By Posted in Social Security Facts

Never Pay Upfront for Benefits Assistance: Part 2

Watch out for websites or individuals claiming to be affiliated with the SSA who charge money just to access forms or submit applications. All necessary forms and services are available for free through the official SSA website. Again, any one

By Posted in Social Security Facts

Never Pay Upfront for Benefits Assistance

If someone offers to help you apply for Social Security Disability benefits in exchange for an upfront fee, it’s a strong indication of a scam. Legitimate representatives (such as accredited disability advocates or licensed attorneys) only collect fees if your

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SSDI Scams: Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Contact Part 2

Real SSA representatives will never use fear tactics or demand payment in gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. The best response is to hang up, delete the message, or ignore the contact completely. Then, report the incident to the appropriate

By Posted in Social Security Facts

SSDI Scams: Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Contact

Receiving SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) benefits can be a lifeline, but it also makes you a target for fraudsters. Here are 10 ways to protect yourself. The Social Security Administration (SSA) typically does not contact people unexpectedly through phone

By Posted in Social Security Facts