Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be a long and complex process. While waiting for a decision, many claimants continue their daily routines, including posting updates on social media. If you are applying for benefits, you need to know that what you share online could negatively impact your claim.
The primary concern that you’ll want to keep in mind is that the Social Security Administration (SSA) and insurance companies may review your social media activity to find inconsistencies in your statements about your disability. The SSA is being very vocal about its social media presence more broadly, which serves to underscore that many agency officials are well-versed in the ins and outs of posting online. Ultimately, to avoid unnecessary complications with your application process, it is best to be cautious about what you post until your claim is fully resolved.
Why this is so important
The SSA does not officially use an applicant’s social media activity as part of its decision-making process, but that does not mean your online activity is safe from scrutiny. Insurance companies and administrative law judges may come across posts that appear to contradict the details of your disability claim. For example, if you are seeking benefits for a condition that limits mobility but post pictures of yourself engaging in physical activities, it could raise questions about the severity of your condition. Even a seemingly harmless photo of you attending a family gathering or going out with friends could be misinterpreted.
Context is often missing from social media posts. A picture from an event does not show the pain you may have been in afterward, the accommodations that allowed you to participate or the rare nature of the activity. Unfortunately, once a post is taken out of context, it can be difficult to explain. This is why it is best to limit social media activity while your claim is pending.
To that end, many people assume that adjusting their privacy settings will keep their posts hidden from those outside their personal network. While privacy settings can offer some protection, they do not guarantee that your content will remain private. Friends or family members could share your posts, and opposing parties may still find ways to access them. If someone tags you in a post or photo, it could appear in searches even if you did not post it yourself.
To minimize risks, consider avoiding social media altogether during the claims process. If you must use it, refrain from discussing your disability, daily activities or anything that could be taken out of context.