If you have ever heard about a person who had been awarded Social Security Disability payments, but then suddenly had the payment reduced or terminated, the topic of surveillance may have come up. When it comes to Social Security Disability, it is important to understand that surveillance is a real thing and that it is a process that can occur well before you are actually approved.
Questionable Information
When it comes to surveillance concerning a Social Security Disability claim, always remember that a person's risk for this type of monitoring begins from the very beginning. From the moment you submit your application for disability payments, everything you submit and say will be examined, reviewed, and documented.
If the person reviewing your claims notices any discrepancies or questionable information within your file, they may put your claim under a more focused view. Their review could lead to your initial application for benefits being denied.
Types of Surveillance
It is worth noting that surveillance regarding Social Security Disability does not necessarily occur in the traditional sense. Generally, after an application has been approved, your disability benefits will be monitored through a periodic review. During these review periods, you are expected to provide up to date information concerning your medical condition, treatment, ability to work, etc. Provided there are no changes, your payments can continue.
However, there are occasions when surveillance could change your circumstances. The Social Security Administration can legally monitor your social media accounts and even send out an agent to physically monitor your actions if necessary.
Avoiding this Concern
The best way to stay out of the surveillance risk zone is to ensure that the information you submit is accurate and complete. More often than not, applicants are not trying to scam the system. They instead file incomplete information, particularly when it comes to their medical file.
Inaccurate information increases the risk of your claim being denied, but it also sends up red flags for an already approved claim. It is always a good idea to partner with an attorney for assistance with completing the application process.
How you apply for and maintain your benefits has a lot to do with whether or not you will be subject to surveillance. As always, to ensure you are well protected, it is a good idea to partner with an attorney from start to finish as you apply for benefits.
Contact a social security disability attorney for more information.