Updating a blog post we brought you last week, the Social Security Administration (SSA) said that it would restore Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits to hundreds of people who had them suspended as part of a federal investigation.
According to WYMT-TV, about 900 people in parts of Kentucky had their SSDI payments suspended as part of an ongoing investigation into attorney Eric C. Conn, whom the government suspects of using fraudulent information to obtain benefits for recipients.
The suspension outraged many, as a number of people who depend on the payments were blindsided, saying they had nothing to do with a scheme. Additionally, and sadly, as we reported, officials are investigating at least three suicides that may be linked to the benefit suspension.
Many officials said the suspensions “punished the innocent.” In response, the SSA released a statement about the reinstatement:
Although [Acting Commissioner of Social Security Carolyn W. Colvin] has decided to reinstate benefits, these beneficiaries must provide sufficient evidence to establish they meet the strict statutory definition of disability dating back to the original decision on their application for Social Security Disability benefits.
Collecting SSDI
It is unfortunate that people have been negatively affected by this person’s alleged actions. This case displays the importance of working with someone who is trusted in the community, if you are applying for SSDI benefits or appealing a decision.
If you or your loved one has questions about benefits, you can contact our office by calling the number listed above or by using the form located on this page. Our attorneys are respected not only within the community, but also by academics and professionals who work in disability law.
Our Tulsa disability attorneys have helped countless people obtain benefits in a legal fashion for several decades. The lawyers at our firm are active with the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR), leading meetings nationally at conferences about topics affecting claimants.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security Disability lawyers
