The government uses data checks and technology to catch errors, but fraudulent payments still slip through.
5. Efforts to Fix the Issue
Better reporting, modernized systems, and stricter penalties for fraud can help reduce these costly mistakes.
7. Can It Be Stopped?
These incorrect payments add up to billions of dollars lost each year, creating financial strain on Social Security funds.
2. Billions Lost Annually
Every year, Social Security mistakenly pays benefits to thousands of deceased people due to outdated records and reporting errors.
1. The Mistaken Payments
Errors occur when deaths go unreported, records are outdated, or fraudsters continue to claim benefits after a person has passed.
3. How It Happens
Sometimes, family members or scammers collect these payments illegally, taking advantage of system loopholes.
4. Who Gets the Money?
These overpayments mean wasted taxpayer money, which could be used to support those truly in need.
6. What Taxpayers Lose