Hi Ginnie,

I agree that the fraud needs to be eliminated. The fraud makes it much more difficult for legitimate claimants to obtain approval and benefits. I just wish there was more balance when reporters cover stories of abuse in any program. The manner in which it is reported makes the general public think anyone availing themself of any assistance is a perpetrator and fraudulently obtaining benefits. Maybe just ONE line indicating that not all applicants are scammers would be beneficial.

Yes, of course you are right. 60 minutes should also say that the VAST majority of folks really need the disablity and are NOT engaging in fraud in any way shape or form. The thing is, I actually know someone who did that, so it does happen. If the public, or individuals let it slide and not report it, it makes it bad on the people who do need coverage. I was kinda chewed on because I approved of this person I know that is reputable( a psychologist in the family), that reported the false claim. Heck I cheered for him!

Most people are good people, it is just a few bad apples that spoil the bunch.
It is so hard to get disability as it is. I don't want those few bad apples to hurt the rest of those individuals who are in real trouble and in need. Our country needs all the help it can get. Take care....ginnieeek:

Again, my prior objection was that your claim of fraud was based on a second hand report. You can't have it both ways and agree that many disabilities are not obvious to the naked eye and than claim someone is lazy and sits around watching tv, so they should be reported for fraud. Are there clear examples of fraud that should be reported? Yes. Some people work under the table while collecting benefits as one example.

Unless you've read a person's claim of what their disabilities are, and than seen evidence that refutes that, than you are perpetuating the same ideas about SSDI and fraud without any evidence.

Please put yourselves in the shoes of someone that has a psych claim for example--should they have to explain why they're receiving SSI or SSDI to extended family or neighbors? The information people post on this forum is not substantial enough for anyone of us to know who should actually qualify or be denied for benefits. Making those decisions is not an easy job, and as flawed as the system might be, I think it is more dangerous that an uniformed public should decide it's their job to police who should lose benefits.

Would you want to have to justify your benefits to someone that has no medical or legal background? CDR's are one way for SS to monitor us. If they need to increase them or put other steps in place to reduce fraud, I certainly wouldn't object.

Well it is not exactly a second hand report. After knowing this psychologist for 35 years, associated with the CFS, I kinda believe him. It is in his family. He would not let this person hurt others that need this service. Like I said there are a few bad apples. I stick with what I said. xxxginnie

Thanks Ginnie.......Yes, I was able to watch it via the link Mz M posted.

It sounds like obvious gross fraud going on in that area between that lawyer and ALJ. It's disgusting to see overt stealing from our government/the SSD Fund treated like a game. The whole country should be appalled by that.

What the general public probably won't realize is how much more difficult this will make the process for those with legitimate claims. Especially those of us with "invisible" disabilities.

Yes, Finz, that was the point I tried to make. Those in the "tubes" waiting for their approval at some level, are being hurt by this. I see so many good people on NT, who are going through a living hell, trying to get medical help, and final approval. Some are way more hurt too, than I am, they deserve to get the help, and the process is getting ever slower.
I did do one thing myself over the last 5 years since I have had approval. I actually look at my hospital bills, and doctor bills. I did find a double billing for an endoscopy to medicare. I had it corrected. That saved the Gov. a couple of thousand dollars. I know it is just a drop in the bucket.
I keep those waiting for help, in my prayers daily. Thanks for commenting Finz. We both see these issues and try to help those right here. xginnie

What everyone here should realize (60 Minutes pointed out briefly) is that............

Since the GREAT depression/recession started, there are more people than ever in the history of SSD applying for benefits. This includes folks who's worker's comp benefits have exhausted. This is especially so in states where the unemployment rate is 8%+.
To top it off, there has been an ongoing hiring freeze in the SSD claims departments for the last few years.
Retired ALJ judges are being hired to help out in the states w/the heaviest backlogs.

This is why I feel so sorry for the "legit" folks who are currently applying for SSD. The claims are being scrutinized with a fine tooth comb as well as w/a magnifying glass. Quite a few deserving folks will be left out in the cold.

ALWAYS GET COPIES OF YOUR MEDICAL RECORDS AS WELL AS THE DOCTORS NOTES. REVIEW THEM.

FIND AN ATTORNEY OR AN AVOCATE WHO ONLY DEALS/HANDLES SSD CASES.

CONTINUE SEEING ALL OF YOUR MEDICAL PHYSICIANS INCLUDING SPECIALIST PERTAINING TO YOUR DISABILITIES.



Good luck

Thank you Mz Migraine. That was my entire point. I expect to be subjected to the standard scrutiny to meet the requirements of eligibility as it should be but fear that all the recent publicity will create an atmosphere of denial that will not be objective. I fear a bias against current applicants and appeals beyond the standard regulations.

I am just astounded... I could be understanding of the 60 minutes bit for the most part. Corruption and Fraud by both Lawyers and fakers should be shut down.

That said... I saw that Judge Judy just equated people with the Auto-Immune Disease Lupus with Drug Addicts, and does not feel they should be allowed SSDI. She also said we all just need more personal responsibility. I am just outraged that a Judge (retired or not) can consider themselves a public servant in one breath and then completely undermining and discounting so many's disability due to a disease. For Shame Judge Judy, for shame.

If you haven't seen the interview - http://www.foxnews.com/on-air/the-ke...responsibility

Lupus is a terrible disease. She didn't know what she was talking about. Very un educated. Auto immune diseases, can cause a train wreck in ones life! Ever looked at arthritis Judge Judy? Most auto immune diseases wind up being very very difficult to live with. Lets hope people higher up will have better sense. Maybe we should write a letter and inform her....ginnie