Does the SSA Monitor my Facebook?
Presently, the Social Security Administration does not routinely monitor social media websites or review them prior to making determinations. (www.nytimes.com/2019/03/10/us/politics/social-security-disability-trump-facebook.html) However, that could change. The Trump administration’s recent budget request to Congress stated that it would contemplate whether to expand the use of social media in disability determinations. The administration contends that it could approve the greater use of social media by regulation, without the need for Congressional approval.
There is little doubt that some fraud does exist in the social security disability program. For example, last month a man pleaded guilty to theft of government funds. He received a total of $242,000 in disability benefits while simultaneously being employed by companies who performed heavy construction work. However, there are concerns that social media sites do not provide reliable evidence. It is difficult to date photographs, for example, and social media platforms allow folks to cherry pick information about themselves. People rarely post photos of themselves in the intensive care unit.
The take-away is always use good sense when posting to social media and be truthful and transparent in your disability claim. Your disability lawyer can help you navigate these issues.