Responding to Social Security Administration (SSA) Overpayments

Receiving an overpayment notice from the Social Security Administration (SSA) is frustrating and frightening for most people. Overpayments can range from a few hundred dollars to many thousands of dollars. It is very important that you respond to an overpayment letter within 60 days or you may lose your opportunity to appeal SSA's decision.

Luckily, the procedures for appealing an overpayment are included with each overpayment notice. Here are a few tips to determine which steps to take:

• Ask SSA for a Reconsideration when you think the overpayment is incorrect or that SSA is using inaccurate information.
• Ask SSA for a Waiver when you think that the overpayment is correct, but you do not think you were at fault for the overpayment and also do not have the resources to repay an overpayment.
• Download our flyer on how to respond to overpayments. Overpayment Information Flyer.

Other things to know:

• People usually do not need a lawyer to file an initial appeal.
• Small overpayments can sometimes be waived by asking for an Administrative Waiver.
• Documenting overlooked Impairment Related Work Expenses and Subsidy often reduces or eliminates overpayments.
• If you need to repay an overpayment, you may be able to negotiate a monthly payment amount that fits your budget.
• The best thing to do is to avoid overpayments in the first place by carefully Monitoring Wages and Benefits.

For more information on how to respond to overpayments, contact the MN Work Incentives Connection.