Denied SSD benefits due to mistaken identity and IRS debt; seeking resolution advice.

Question

I am seeking advice on dealing with being denied Social Security Disability benefits. I was a recipient for several years but lost eligibility due to income from marriage. After divorcing, I have been denied and forced to reapply and appeal for over five years. I recently found out my file was mixed up with another person who has an IRS debt, leading to a ban. I've notified the SSA, IRS, and filed identity theft reports with them and a national database. Despite filing for waivers and communicating directly with SSA's identity theft department, I haven't received any updates, and the debt from 2013 on my record has not been clarified by SSA. I received no notice from SSA throughout my appeals over six years. What steps should I take to resolve this issue and reclaim my benefits?

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

Your situation with Social Security Disability benefits is incredibly frustrating and requires immediate action on multiple fronts. First, request a formal written explanation from SSA regarding the exact nature of the identity confusion and the alleged IRS debt—this documentation will be crucial for your appeals process. Contact your local congressional representative's office, as they often have caseworkers dedicated to resolving federal benefit issues and can initiate inquiries that receive priority attention from SSA and IRS officials. 
 
Consider scheduling an in-person appointment with your local Social Security office, bringing all documentation of your previous benefits, identity theft reports, and communications with both agencies. During this meeting, request to speak with a supervisor who has the authority to place a note on your file distinguishing you from the other individual. Additionally, file a formal complaint with the SSA Inspector General's office, which investigates administrative errors and can expedite resolution of identity confusion cases. 
 
While pursuing these administrative remedies, prepare a concise timeline of events with supporting documents and consult with a legal aid attorney who handles Social Security cases. The combination of congressional intervention, in-person advocacy, and legal assistance often breaks through bureaucratic roadblocks that individual efforts cannot. Remember to document every communication with date, time, and the name of representatives you speak with—this paper trail will strengthen your case and demonstrate your diligence in resolving an error that was not your fault.

Q: Denied SSD benefits due to mistaken identity and IRS debt; seeking resolution advice.