According to the Associated Press, a man in western Missouri pleaded guilty earlier this month to stealing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
The man, 39-year-old Michael Burt of Archie, Missouri, admitted in court to stealing more than $109,000 in disability benefits while working at a Kansas equine training center.
According to the AP, Burt was approved for SSDI payments in 2002 after he was deemed medically unable to work because of a back disorder. However, Burt admitted that he later began working full-time in July 2004 at Two Bit Training in Overland Park, Kansas, doing manual labor that included cleaning stalls and looking after the horses.
Federal prosecutors said that Burt never reported to the Social Security Administration that he began working again.
As part of his plea agreement, Burt will have to repay the government full restitution for his crimes. He also faces a prison sentence, which will be decided later this year.
Social Security Fraud: Not Worth the Risk
Last year, a man who similarly pleaded guilty to Social Security fraud in Missouri was sentenced to seven years in prison. People who attempt to deceive the SSDI system by receiving payments they do not qualify for are often caught and receive punishment for their actions in a court of law.
Fraud hurts individuals with disabilities who need SSDI benefits. It helps contribute to stereotypes and lessens the money available to people who cannot legitimately work.
Our firm is able to answer your questions about applying for SSDI and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, as well as help you throughout the process. To learn if you qualify, reach out to a Tulsa Social Security disability lawyer at (918) 265-1404.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security disability attorneys
