What an overpayment is
An overpayment happens when SSA pays you more than you were due. Common causes include working above the earnings limit, a change in income, marital status, or living arrangement that was not reported in time, or a payment mistake. You receive a notice that explains the amount and why.
How much SSA takes
| Benefit | Default withholding |
|---|---|
| Retirement, survivors, and SSDI (Title II) | 50% of your monthly benefit, for notices sent on or after April 25, 2025 |
| SSI | 10% of the SSI payment |
The rate can be lowered if you cannot afford it. SSA may also recover debts from federal payments such as tax refunds.
Your three options
| Option | Use it when | Form | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appeal (reconsideration) | You think you were not overpaid or the amount is wrong | SSA-561 | 60 days from the notice (SSA adds 5 days for mail) |
| Waiver | The overpayment is correct, but it was not your fault and repaying it would cause hardship or be unfair | SSA-632-BK | No deadline, but file within 30 days to stop collection |
| Lower repayment rate | You owe the money but cannot afford 50% | Call 1-800-772-1213 or use the form SSA gives you | Ask as early as possible |
The 30-day rule
If you file an appeal or a waiver request within 30 days of the notice, SSA generally will not start collecting until it decides. If you wait, withholding starts automatically, and SSA refunds money only if you win. Late appeals require a good-cause explanation.
What a waiver requires
SSA considers whether you were without fault (you gave correct information and reported changes on time) and whether paying it back would defeat the purpose of the program or be against fairness. Include proof of your income and expenses. Small overpayments (generally $2,000 or less) can sometimes be waived with less paperwork if you were not at fault.
Steps to take now
- Read the notice for the amount, reason, and dates.
- Collect pay stubs, benefit letters, and bank records.
- File the right request within 30 days and keep a copy.
- Keep reporting income and changes to SSA while you wait.