How to Identify and Handle Potential Social Security Scams After a Spouse's Death

A client recently lost his spouse and now he’s wondering if he got scammed. Does this sound legit?  About a month ago he got a letter from the Social Security Administration saying that there were funds remaining that had been unpaid to Shirley (deceased) and that they needed information from him in order to continue those payments to him. The information that was requested included Social Security numbers, bank name, account and routing numbers.

It’s crucial to be cautious when receiving unexpected requests for sensitive information, especially following the death of a spouse. In this case, it seems likely that the letter your client received is not legitimate, and here’s why:

1. Social Security Administration (SSA) Protocol:

   • The SSA typically does not ask for sensitive information like Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, or routing numbers through unsolicited letters or emails. If there are funds remaining or back pay due to a deceased individual, the SSA will generally notify the survivor through more official channels.

2. Official SSA Process for Back Pay:

   • If there are any unpaid benefits due to the deceased, the SSA usually sends Form SSA-1724, "Claim for Amounts Due in the Case of a Deceased Beneficiary." This form is used to collect information about potential beneficiaries entitled to any remaining payments.
   • The SSA would never ask for bank details or Social Security numbers in an unsolicited letter. These details are generally provided by the beneficiary when they apply for benefits or via secure channels if needed.

3. Steps to Take if You Suspect a Scam:

   • Contact SSA Directly: If your client is unsure about the legitimacy of a letter, the best course of action is to contact the SSA directly at their official toll-free number (1-800-772-1213) or visit a local SSA office.
   • Report Suspicious Activity: If the letter is indeed a scam, your client should report it to the SSA's Office of the Inspector General (OIG) at https://oig.ssa.gov. This can help prevent others from being targeted.
   • Protect Personal Information: Advise your client not to provide any personal or financial information in response to unsolicited letters, emails, or phone calls claiming to be from the SSA.

4. Verify Any Claims of Unpaid Benefits:

   • If your client genuinely believes there might be unpaid benefits, they can inquire directly with the SSA about any potential claims or amounts due. The SSA can provide guidance on how to proceed securely.

In summary, this situation sounds like a scam because the SSA does not typically ask for sensitive personal information in this manner. It’s always best to verify any such requests through official channels to ensure your client’s information remains secure.

The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Social Security rules change periodically, so some information may become outdated. For the most accurate advice, consult a certified National Social Security Advisor (NSSA®). Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this blog's content. Use of this blog does not create a client relationship, and all information is provided "as is" without guarantees. By using this blog, you agree to hold Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® harmless from any claims or liabilities arising from its content. For personalized guidance, contact an NSSA® professional.