What You Don’t Know About Social Security Could Hurt Your Parent
Senior Care in McLean VA
Social Security. Trying to figure it out for your loved one might, at times, feel like a big maze or foreign concept. It can be a quagmire, for sure, but it doesn’t have to be. You just need to know 
where to go to get the right answers.
The Social Security Administration’s web site is very thorough and relatively easy to understand. It breaks down in detail every possible question you could think of about Social Security benefits, how to apply for them, how to determine how much one’s benefit will be them, even how to request a new card, etc.
As the person providing senior care for your loved one, it’s a good idea to periodically review the very basics of their Social Security number and account. Having that knowledge can help protect them from having their identity stolen, or their account hacked or otherwise compromised.
Identity theft remains one of the fastest growing crimes in America. If someone were to get your loved one’s Social Security number, they could use it to get other personal information about them, then apply for credit in their name. You can imagine the problems that could result from that. It could even cause your family member’s good credit rating to be compromised or ruined. Remember these important tips for protecting your loved one’s—even your own—Social Security number.
- Social Security numbers are confidential and the Social Security Administration keeps each person’s number and records confidential. Unless authorized by law, they never give out a person’s Social Security number to anyone for any reason.
- The Social Security Administration will never call someone asking for their number; they already know it. If anyone asks you or your parent for their number, be careful about sharing it. Find out who is asking, and why. You should also ask how it’ll be used, and what will happen if you or your parent refuse. The answers to these questions can help you decide if the request is legitimate or not. And get a number where you can call them back; don’t have them call you.
- If anything comes in the mail or email requesting your parent’s Social Security number, ignore and throw it out or delete it.
- You can see your loved one’s Benefits Statement online. Review it regularly.
- Never carry a Social Security card with you. Years ago it was assumed by people you should carry your card with you, but it is not smart and certainly not recommended. Instead, it’s a great way to have not only the card—but possibly one’s identity—stolen. Leave it at home in a safe place and don’t have the number written down where others can see it.
- If you suspect fraud or that your parent’s identity has been stolen, call the police, but also call the Social Security’s Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-269-0271. You can also report your suspicion online by visiting http://oig.ssa.gov and select “Report Fraud, Waste, or Abuse.”
If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in McLean, VA, call the caring staff at Medical Professionals On Call today. 703-273-8818
Source: www.ssa.gov or www.socialsecurity.gov
Medical Professionals On Call has such a caring, professional staff who are available to step in with whatever level of care necessary for loved ones and to relieve you of that stress.
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