Social Security Scam Reported

The local Social Security office has informed the Manitowoc County Aging & Disability Resource Center of a phone scam targeting Social Security and SSI recipients.

According to a news release from the ADRC, the scammer promises to guarantee delivery of monthly Social Security and SSI checks should government employees not be in the office to forward the check. The scammer also talks about protecting them from lawsuits that may be filed against them.

Social Security and SSI payments are paid by a trust, according to Judy Rank, executive director of the ADRC. Congress does not have to appropriate any funds for these monthly checks to be sent or deposited. This means that nothing can hold back the payment of monthly checks, she said.

Rank cautions people never to give out theirSocial Security number or bank account number over the telephone. If uncertain about the legitimacy of the call, call your local Social Security office, she advises.

People also can report scams directly to the Office of the Inspector General by calling (800) 269-0271.

Reminder

After Tuesday, all new Social Security recipients must elect to have their monthly payment direct deposited to their bank account. If bank account information is not provided at the time of enrollment, individuals will be enrolled in the government's Direct Express Debit MasterCardprogram. Monthly benefits will be deposited directly onto this debit card, which can be used to make purchases, pay bills or get cash.

Beneficiaries currently receiving checks will need to switch to direct deposit or the debit card by March 1, 2013.