Overpayment

If an SSDI or SSI claimant receives more money than they are entitled to receive this is an overpayment. Claimants who receive an overpayment are responsible for repaying the Social Security Administration (SSA).

The most common reason a claimant receives an overpayment is if they are receiving disability benefits and return to work and earn too much income. If the claimant is receiving SSI benefits they are responsible for reporting their income. If the amount reported is less than the amount received the claimant will have an overpayment of SSI benefits.

SSI can also be reduced if a claimant is living with someone providing food or shelter or if the claimant gets married. If a claimant's living arrangement changes or they get married and they do not report the change, an overpayment may also occur. Talk to the SSA if you have an overpayment. In most cases the SSA will be able to work out an overpayment repayment plan. If the overpayment was not your fault the SSA may be willing to waive it.