How to Handle a Disability Fraud Accusation

You sit back thinking that you have successfully filed for disability benefits, only to find yourself accused of disability fraud. This is a serious charge that you need to defend yourself against. This is because you could either face a fine or a prison sentence if you are convicted of disability fraud. To avoid being charged with disability fraud, you should always report any changes in your disability or financial situation as soon as it occurs. Failure to do so can be considered a fraud.

Investigation

If the authorities suspect that you are committing disability fraud, they will first institute an investigation. While the investigation is in progress, you disability benefits payments will be suspended and you will be informed of the fact. Either the investigating officer will visit you, or call you for an interview. In either event, be prepared to defend your claim.

Medical Support

In the event that an investigation on your claim has been started, your best defense is accurate medical reports that confirm your claim. Medical records including X-rays and MRI scans should be produced to support your disability claim.

Benefits Office

You can also contact your benefits office for help if you are unsure how certain provisions apply to you. This will benefit you in case you have made a genuine mistake in your claim. In such cases, you might be let off with paying the excess amount you have collected as disability benefits. No penalty will be applied to you if you are able to convince the officer in charge that the error was genuine.

Citizens Advice Bureau

In some instances, the Benefits Office will not be convinced of the genuineness of your disability. In such cases, the next logical step to take is to approach the Citizens Advice Bureau. Find a branch near where you reside and ask them if they can help you.

Retain a Lawyer

In the event that even the Citizens Advice Bureau is unable to help you resolve your case and prove your innocence, retain a lawyer who specializes in such cases. Such a lawyer will be able to prove your innocence more easily. Apart from your medical records, the lawyer will peruse documents and records with the benefits office or insurance company. In case the information they obtained violates your privacy rights, the lawyer will be able to ask the judge to disregard such information. You can also appeal a decision made by the Benefits Office to ensure that you continue getting your disability benefits. Ultimately, an efficient lawyer will be able to convince the judge that your disability is real.