For Social Security Overpayments

You have 60 days from the date you receive the overpayment notice to:

• File an appeal (if you believe the overpayment is incorrect), or
• Request a waiver (if the overpayment wasn’t your fault and repayment would cause financial hardship)

SSA assumes you received the letter 5 days after the date on the notice unless you can prove otherwise.

For VA Overpayments

The VA also gives you 60 days from the date of the debt notice to dispute the validity of the debt or request a waiver.

If you miss the 60-day window, the agency may begin recovery actions, such as:

• Withholding your entire monthly benefit
• Referring the debt to collections
• Reporting it to credit agencies

How to Respond in Time

• Act quickly: Mark the date on your calendar and don’t delay.
• Submit the right form:
• SSA: Use Form SSA-561 to appeal or Form SSA-632 to request a waiver.
• VA: Use VA Form 5655 along with your waiver or dispute request.
• Keep proof: Save copies of forms and use certified mail or online submission when possible.