Disability Law Claims Blog

Always Be Honest About Your Work Status

If you receive Social Security disability benefits, but you would still like to be able to work, there is often a way to do both. However, it is critical to your disability case and your benefits that you inform the Social Security Administration of your work status and income.

A woman from New York was recently accused of a felony after she lied about her work to receive Social Security disability benefits. She now has to pay back the more than $66,000 she was paid over the course of several years.

According to Times Union, the 46-year-old woman is said to have lied to the SSA when she said she was too disabled to work. At the time, she worked at the Humane Society and concealed this from the SSA.

The woman-who is affected by medical issues-pleaded guilty to the felony of failing to disclose information that affected her right to disability benefits. Because of this, she must pay back the $66,452 that she has received since 2006. Though this charge carries a 5 year sentence in federal prison, the courts are waiving that penalty in consideration of her health concerns.

This sad case illustrates the need to be forthcoming about your work status and any income that you earn in addition to your Social Security benefits. By speaking to a disability attorney about your situation, you may be able to avoid committing such mistakes and ensure that you probably follow all SSA proceedures.

If you or your loved one are suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The disability lawyers at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.