In today’s world thanks to technology people can be connected by just the press of a button. With many individuals owning cell phones, staying in touch with others is easier than ever. This accessibility, however, can have a downside. With landlines going the way of the dodo bird, telemarketers and scammers are moving to target cell phones instead.
The most popular phone scam that topped the list in 2019 are people posing as calling from the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you submitted an application or are thinking of beginning the process, here are some things to keep in mind.
Follow the Money
If you have an open application with the administration, you may occasionally receive mail or phone calls from SSA employees (unless you have an attorney to act as your representative, in which calls would go to them/the law firm you are working with).
However, none of the contacts involves demanding payment or forms of payment (such as a gift card) in exchange for services. Scammers may also tell you that you have a debt to the SSA that must be paid immediately, without telling you about your ability to submit an appeal.
Getting Information
Staff members for the SSA will never ask you to provide any sort of credit or debit card information over the phone to submit payment. If you are asked this type of question, it is highly likely you are speaking with a telephone scammer.
Issues with Your SSA Account
It is important to know that actual SSA representatives will not use any sort of angry language or intimidation tactics when speaking with you. If there is an issue with your account or an SSDI application, the administration will send a letter to you informing you of the situation.
If You Receive a Call
If you do happen to receive a call from someone you think is a scammer or posing as an SSA worker, you can file a report with the administration here. The Inspector General for the administration that simply rejecting or not answering the call is also an appropriate form of action.
Need Help Getting SSDI Benefits?
If you or someone you know would like to apply for SSDI benefits, contact our SSDI team at (303) 327-9988 to schedule an appointment. Please visit our website here for more information.
