What Is a Disability Overpayment?

A disability overpayment happens when the SSA claims it paid you more benefits than you were entitled to. This can occur due to:

• Changes in income or living situation
• Improvement in your medical condition
• Return to work without proper reporting
• Administrative or calculation errors

Can You Dispute an Overpayment?

Yes. If you believe the overpayment is incorrect or unfair, you can challenge the SSA’s decision by filing an appeal or requesting a waiver.

Steps to Dispute a Disability Overpayment

Review the Notice Carefully

The SSA will send a written notice explaining:

• The amount of the overpayment
• The reason for it
• Your options for appeal or repayment

Read the letter thoroughly so you understand the issue.

Decide How You Want to Respond

You typically have two main options:

• Request Reconsideration (Appeal)
  If you disagree with the SSA’s claim — either the amount or the fact that you were overpaid at all — you can file Form SSA-561, the Request for Reconsideration. You must do this within 60 days of receiving the notice.
• Request a Waiver
  If the overpayment wasn’t your fault and you can’t afford to pay it back, you can request a waiver using Form SSA-632-BK. If granted, you won’t have to repay the overpayment.

👉 Note: You can file both a reconsideration and a waiver if you disagree with the overpayment and can’t afford repayment.

Submit Supporting Documents

Include any relevant documents, such as:

• Bank statements
• Pay stubs
• Medical records
• Written statements

This evidence can support your appeal or waiver request.

Continue Receiving Benefits

If you file your appeal within 10 days of the notice, the SSA will usually not reduce or stop your payments while they review your case.

What Happens After You File?

• The SSA may request an informal or formal hearing
• You’ll receive a written decision after their review
• If denied, you can appeal further to an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)