Social security disability fraud is when a disabled individual tries to misrepresent his or her injury as a way to receive greater compensation from the state. Since this form of fraud is often prosecuted, you will need to be aware of how you can avoid fraud both to avoid criminal penalties and to avoid having your social security disability claims denied.

Do Not Make False Statements

If you make a false statement when reporting to the Social Security office, this might be a crime. For example, if you claim that you are not married when you actually are, this might be considered a false statement or claim. You might claim that you have a medical condition that you do not actually have, such as deafness. You might also claim that you do not have an income when you actually have alternative sources of income.

Admit When You are Not Qualified

Oftentimes, you shouldn't be qualified for social security disability. If you are receiving social security benefits for a child of yours, but you are not actually caring for the child, you would not be qualified for his or her social security benefits. If you continue to work, but seek to cover this up, you should not be receiving disability payments. If your condition improves, make sure you report this even if it will lead to a smaller social security disability payment. Also, if there are any other significant changes, such as you returning to work or going to jail, these changes should also be reported.

Double-Check Your Documents

Before you send documents to a social security disability office, make sure that they are accurate. If you include an incorrect social security number or if there is other evidence that you falsified documents, these behaviors could be seen as evidence that you were committing fraud.

Don't Misuse the Social Security Payments of Someone Else

Some individuals are not able to handle social security benefits on their own and will instead need these responsibilities to be handed over to a friend or family member. If you are put in charge of social security payments of someone else, misusing these resources is an act of fraud. You must use the social security payments in a manner that benefits the recipient.

One of the best ways to avoid getting in trouble for fraud is to work with a social security disability attorney. These professionals will look over your application and make sure that you do not make any mistakes that would lead you to be considered a victim of fraud. Contact a local attorney for more information on social security disability representation.