What Is a Disability Overpayment?

A disability overpayment occurs when the SSA pays you more in benefits than you should have received. This might happen if:

• Your income or work status changed and wasn't reported promptly
• Your medical condition improved
• You were paid due to an SSA miscalculation or error

The SSA will usually send a notice demanding repayment, which can be a significant financial burden.

Can SSA Forgive an Overpayment?

Yes, SSA can forgive an overpayment — but it's not automatic. You must request a waiver of the overpayment, and to qualify, you must show:

1. The overpayment wasn’t your fault, and
2. Repaying it would cause financial hardship or be unfair

If both conditions are met, SSA may waive the overpayment, meaning you don’t have to pay it back.

How to Request Forgiveness for SSA Overpayments

To ask SSA to forgive an overpayment, follow these steps:

1. Complete a Waiver Request Form

Use Form SSA-632-BK (Request for Waiver of Overpayment Recovery). You can get it from your local SSA office or download it from SSA.gov.

2. Provide Supporting Evidence

Include documents like:

• Bank statements
• Bills and expenses
• Proof of income
• A written statement explaining why the overpayment wasn’t your fault

The stronger your case, the higher your chances of a waiver.

Attend a Personal Conference (If Required)

SSA may invite you to a personal conference to review your situation. Be prepared to discuss your finances and why you shouldn’t be held responsible for the overpayment.

What If Your Waiver Is Denied?

If SSA denies your waiver, you can:

• Appeal the decision within 60 days using Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration)
• Request a payment plan if you can’t afford to repay the full amount at once