In this chapter:

Non-Profit Organizations

Sports

Industry Trade Groups

Hobbies

 

 

 

 

Non-Profit Organizations

Claimants may be involved in non-profit organizations because of the misinformed assumption that working without pay is acceptable.  In cases of misrepresented functionality, such information is extremely valuable to an investigator.  For information on non-profit companies and organizations, visit GuideStar or GrantSmart.

Top of Page

Sports

Investigations of suspicious disability claims frequently turn up sports-related activity.  Supposedly bed-ridden claimants have been found participating in myriad sports.  Fortunately, the Internet may be able to assist investigators in discovering the true activities of a claimant.  Some sporting associations or  groups post member information online.  For example, the Golf Handicap and Information Network allows a name and state search of members who have posted their golf handicaps online.  The free search shows a golfers home course, recent dates of play, scores, and other course information.  Bowl.com offers a search for members in the ABC, WIBC, YABA, and JOG bowling leagues and the United States Pool Players Association offers a member search showing games played, dates, and home “room,” or pool hall.  Claim documents such as a claimant questionnaire may show what sports the claimant was involved in prior to the alleged disability.  Websites for associations affiliated with these sports would be a great place to start looking.  The date and location information may indicate a pattern of regular play presenting an opportunity for future surveillance.

Top of Page

Industry Trade Groups

Claimants may be involved with trade groups or associations affiliated with a particular industry, depending on their occupation.  Organization websites often list members and membership requirements.  Member information may be available in a simple listing or a searchable directory format.  Once membership is verified, take note of membership requirements.  Often, members are required to attend annual meetings, receive a number of hours of training, or maintain some type of related employment.  It is also helpful to take note of any major activities that the group may be planning.  Seminars, in-service training, or even merchandise may be associated with the claimant.  For example, an engineer who is on disability may begin lecturing at training seminars or publishing materials sponsored by a trade association.  For examples of trade associations, visit the Yahoo! Trade Associations Directory.  To search for a particular type of association, visit the American Society of Association Executives search utility.

Top of Page

Hobbies

In addition to sports and employment-related activities, the claimant may be involved in other social organizations.  Review the claim file and identify any other hobbies or activities that the claimant has listed on forms or mentioned in conversation.  Consider researching membership in these groups:

Ø Local government                                                            Ø Collector’s groups

Ø Committees, boards, or commissions                       Ø Volunteer programs

Ø Civic organizations                                                          Ø Youth assistance programs

Ø Fan clubs                                                                          Ø Church or religious groups

Many of these groups have websites.  Often information about current or upcoming events is listed and occasionally photos, and increasingly videos, from group events are posted.

Top of Page

Proceed to Chapter 9:  Anonymous Investigation