Understand the Overpayment Notice

The first step is to carefully read the overpayment notice you received. The Social Security Administration (SSA) or Wisconsin’s Disability Determination Bureau (DDB) will send a letter outlining:

• The total amount of overpayment
• The reason for the overpayment
• The repayment options available to you
• Instructions for appeal or waiver requests

Make sure to verify the details. Overpayments often happen due to changes in income, work activity, changes in living arrangements, or administrative errors.

Verify the Accuracy of the Overpayment

Before taking action, confirm whether the overpayment amount is correct. Review:

• Your benefit payment history
• Recent earnings (if applicable)
• Changes in household circumstances
• Any prior communication with the SSA or DDB

Sometimes, overpayments are due to clerical errors, and correcting the records may reduce or eliminate the amount owed.

Respond Promptly

You typically have 30 days from the date of the notice to respond, so don’t delay. Ignoring the notice can lead to automatic deductions from future payments or other collection actions.

You have three main options:

• Repay the Amount in Full: If you agree with the overpayment and can afford to repay, you can do so directly through the methods outlined in your notice (online, by mail, or at your local SSA office).
• Request a Repayment Plan: If full repayment isn’t possible, you can request a monthly installment plan based on your financial situation.
• Appeal the Decision: If you believe the overpayment is incorrect, you can file an appeal to have the decision reviewed.

Consider Requesting a Waiver

If you agree that the overpayment occurred but believe you should not have to repay it, you may qualify for a waiver. You must show that:

• The overpayment was not your fault, and
• Repaying it would cause financial hardship or be unfair for other reasons.

To request a waiver, submit Form SSA-632-BK (Request for Waiver of Overpayment Recovery). The SSA may also schedule a personal conference to discuss your waiver request.

Prepare for the Appeals Process

If you choose to appeal, you must submit Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration) within 60 days of receiving the overpayment notice. During the appeals process:

• Continue to respond to any requests for information.
• Gather supporting documents, like bank statements, pay stubs, and any medical or employment records.
• Be prepared for a hearing, if necessary.

An appeal can stop collection efforts temporarily until a decision is made.

Monitor Repayment or Appeal Progress

Whether you’re on a repayment plan, waiting for a waiver decision, or appealing the overpayment, stay proactive:

• Keep copies of all correspondence and forms submitted.
• Confirm payments and balances regularly.
• Follow up with the SSA or state office if you don’t receive timely updates.

Seek Professional Assistance

Navigating disability overpayment issues can be complicated, especially if you’re already managing health and financial challenges. An experienced disability attorney or advocate can:

• Review your case for errors
• Help you file appeals or waiver requests
• Negotiate repayment plans
• Represent you at hearings