SOCIAL SECURITY'S NEW TOP PRIORITY: ANTI-FRAUD

Fraud prevention seems to be Social Security's new top priority.  In November 2014, the Social Security Administration opened a new division called the Office of Anti-Fraud Programs (OAFP).  The OAFP works closely with the Inspector General (the investigative and prosecution office) to "combat fraud and waste."  Congress has allocated billions of dollars to the anti-fraud campaign.

Acting Commissioner of Social Security, Calvin Colvin, said her office will take a stern stand against anyone found to be trying to abuse or defraud the system.  Ms. Colvin said:

   “We will find you; we will prosecute you; we will seek the maximum punishment allowable under the law; and we will fight to restore to the American public the money you’ve stolen from the American people.” 

Acting Commissioner Colvin did not address the backlog of more than 1 million disability cases waiting their turn for a hearing.  She did not address the fact that Social Security offices are closing each day at 3:00 PM or that they have been previously closed to the public each Wednesday at noon.  Neither did she address the fact that there are hundreds of thousands of claimants who have been waiting over 3 years to get a decision on their claims.

We can only hope that the heavy emphasis on fraud prevention will eventually result in making it easier for legitimate claimants to receive their benefits in a timely manner.  Unfortunately, at this moment, I see no reason for optimism.