Social Security can no longer deny or stop benefits in certain cases because of an outstanding warrant

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has changed the way it processes applications for individuals who have an outstanding felony warrant. The change corrects a prior wrongful interpretation and application of the policy. Beginning April 1, 2009, beneficiaries will have a 35 day protest period before suspension actions can be taken due to an outstanding warrant. The revised policy, however, does not automatically correct improperly denied or terminated benefits that occurred before the new policy was in effect. You can contact your local Social Security Office or the OLRS Intake department if you have questions.

Read more information from Disability Rights California: About the Settlement of Martinez v. Astrue

Article posted May 19, 2009