Social Security backlog leads to $1 billion improper payments

( NewsNation ) — An inspector general-issued report has revealed there has been a rise in improper payments amid a record Social Security Administration backlog.

According to a news release from the agency’s Office of the Inspector General , as of February 2024, a record 5.2 million Social Security pending actions resulted in $1.1 billion in improper payments.

The Social Security Administration’s “pending actions” backlog has risen by 44% between the financial years of 2018-2023.

As backlog continues, the proliferation of underpayments, overpayments and improper payments increases.

“Customer satisfaction has been an ongoing concern for SSA ,” acting Inspector General for SSA Michelle Anderson said.

“This report continues to highlight the urgency for SSA to reach its pending actions performance goal and to ensure beneficiaries receive their proper payments as promptly as possible.”

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