FAQs

Social Security said I’ve been overpaid, what does this mean?

Overpayments can happen for a variety of reasons. Common reasons include having engaged in work activity or having too much money in your bank accounts while receiving SSI benefits. An overpayment happens whenever Social Security has paid you more in benefits (either SSI or Disability Insurance benefits) than you were entitled to under their rules.

What can I do about the overpayment?

You have several options when you’re notified about an overpayment. One is to file an appeal if you believe Social Security is wrong about overpaying you. A second option is generally to file a request for a waiver of the overpayment, acknowledging that Social Security may have paid you too much in benefits, but you were not at fault in creating the overpayment and you’re unable to repay. There are other options you can consider as well that are best discussed with a knowledgeable attorney.

What if I can’t pay it back?

Depending on your circumstance, Social Security may garnish your monthly disability payments to recoup the money they find you owe them.