The U.S. government has successfully recovered over $31 million in federal payments that were mistakenly issued to deceased individuals. This action was disclosed by officials who described this recovery as “just the tip of the iceberg.”
This reclaiming of funds was part of a five-month pilot initiative that stemmed from a provision in the 2021 omnibus appropriations bill, which granted the Department of Treasury temporary access to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) “Full Death Master File.” This file is one of the most comprehensive federal records of deceased individuals, comprising over 142 million entries dating back to 1899, according to information released by the Treasury.
Looking ahead, the Treasury anticipates being able to recover more than $215 million throughout the three-year period of access, which extends from December 2023 to 2026. David Lebryk, the Treasury’s Fiscal Assistant Secretary, emphasized the importance of these initial figures, stating that they merely scratch the surface of what could be reclaimed. He called on Congress to grant the Treasury permanent access to this vital master file, asserting that such action would enhance fraud prevention, bolster program integrity, and ensure better protection of taxpayer funds.
The initiative showcases progress in curbing fraudulent practices, waste, and misuse of funds, an area that aligns with the campaign promises made by former President Donald Trump. In a move to bolster government efficiency, Trump has appointed prominent business figures such as Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This task force is responsible for identifying opportunities to streamline federal operations, reduce workforce numbers, eliminate unnecessary programs, and cut regulatory burdens, all integral components of Trump’s “Save America” strategy for his anticipated second term in office.
However, representatives from Trump’s transition team did not immediately provide insights on whether the forthcoming administration would sustain these recovery efforts or work towards making the Treasury’s access to the death file a permanent measure.
In summary, the government’s actions reflect a significant step toward addressing improper payments, and the outcomes anticipated from this program may lead to broader changes in federal payment oversight and program integrity in the coming years.
