Attorneys Warn of Social Security Social Media Crackdown

If you have a social media account, it may be tempting to post pictures and other details regarding your activities. While it may get you a lot of “likes,” a post can do more harm than good, especially if you’re currently collecting federal disability benefits.

That’s because the Trump administration has been devising a proposal to identify Social Security recipients who don’t appear genuinely disabled through social media outlets, such as Facebook and Twitter. This measure could impact more than 10 million people in the US currently receiving Social Security benefits.

According to the Washington Post, the crackdown on Social Security fraud is part of Trump’s proposed 2020 budget – which seeks to make cuts to several government benefits.

Why this measure is flawed

If, for example, you are collecting Social Security benefits due to a disability, and you post a photo involving a fun, outdoor activity, you could be deemed ineligible for future payments.

According to some who oppose this measure, such photos don’t always represent the extent of a Social Security recipient’s true condition. For example, a person who is seeking or currently collecting benefits could post a picture of himself or herself running a road race. That activity may have happened before that individual sustained a condition that rendered him or her physically unfit to work. Further, social media users are unlikely to post pictures of themselves in a state or pose of disability.

Currently, Social Security, along with state and local law enforcement agencies, already investigates cases of fraud. While social media posts may not provide a great deal of hard evidence, they are often examined as part of an investigation.

Our attorneys proudly represent Social Security claimants

At Mani Ellis & Layne PLLC, we urge those seeking or obtaining Social Security benefits to be cautious about what they post on social media. Even if a photo doesn’t truly represent your condition, those attempting to crack down on Social Security abuse could construe it as fraud.

Obtaining Social Security benefits is already difficult enough. Many people who suffer from disabilities are denied after filing claims. If you are facing challenges with obtaining and maintaining benefits, it’s best to seek the legal advocacy of one of our experienced Social Security disability lawyers who fully understand how the system works.

Contact our Charleston, West Virginia law office today to schedule your free consultation.