What counts as Social Security fraud
Social Security is run by the Social Security Administration. Common schemes include:
- Giving false information to start or keep receiving benefits
- Hiding work, earnings, disability status or living arrangements
- Collecting a deceased person's benefits
- Misuse by a representative payee
Honest mistakes and disputes over a single bill are not fraud. Fraud means someone knowingly took money they were not entitled to.
Where to report it
| Contact | Handles |
|---|---|
| SSA Office of the Inspector General | Benefit fraud and Social Security number misuse |
Can you get a reward?
WHIP does not list Social Security Administration among its covered agencies, so the main reward route is the False Claims Act, which pays 15–30% of what the government recovers on false claims for federal money.
- WHIP: submit in writing at America.gov/fraud, include your contact details, and do not take part in the fraud. Step-by-step guide.
- False Claims Act: a sealed lawsuit filed through a lawyer; worthwhile mainly for frauds of $1 million or more. Compare the routes.
- State laws: many states have their own false claims acts. Check your state's page in the case database.
Estimate your own case with the reward calculator.
What to include in your report
- Who: names of people and businesses, addresses, provider or license numbers if you have them
- What: the service, benefit or loan involved and what was wrong with it
- When and how often, and roughly how much money
- How you know: what you saw, and any documents or photos you are allowed to share
Where Social Security fraud is being prosecuted
States with the most Social Security announcements in our database since January 20, 2025; the largest amount named is $9M (alleged loss):
| State | Announcements |
|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 18 |
| Massachusetts | 15 |
| Missouri | 13 |
| Florida | 10 |
| New York | 10 |
| Maryland | 6 |
| New Jersey | 5 |
| Texas | 5 |
Recent Social Security fraud cases
Source: U.S. Department of Justice press releases. Charged cases are allegations. All 122 Social Security announcements
Frequently asked questions
Where do I report Social Security fraud?
SSA Office of the Inspector General: Benefit fraud and Social Security number misuse.
Can I get a reward for reporting Social Security fraud?
WHIP does not list Social Security Administration among its covered agencies, so the main reward route is the False Claims Act, which pays 15–30% of what the government recovers on false claims for federal money.
Can I report Social Security fraud anonymously?
Most inspector general hotlines accept anonymous tips. To be paid a WHIP award, though, you must give contact information and disclose your identity to the Justice Department before payment; you can stay anonymous during the process only through a lawyer.
How common is Social Security fraud prosecution?
Our database has 122 Justice Department announcements involving Social Security since January 20, 2025, counting each press release separately.