No one deserves peace-of-mind more than a disabled individual who has already established entitlement to Social Security benefits. Usually the only requirement for benefits to continue without interruption is for the individual to continue with medical care, follow medical advice and not engage in substantial work activity. However, circumstances can affect the level of a benefit payment and must be dealt with directly to avoid an overpayment of disability. Overpayments are aggressively pursued by Social Security so the best defense is a good offense.
Overpayments generally occur when there has been work activity or if the individual is receiving benefits from another disability/injury program such as workers compensation, PERS, or SERS. However, if the disabled person is receiving SSI benefits, an overpayment can occur with any addition of income or resources.
If a disability recipient is advised of an overpayment, the individual should take two immediate actions: (1) file an appeal asking that the presence and amount of the overpayment be reconsidered and (2) file for a waiver requesting that collection of the overpayment be excused. If Social Security requires repayment of the overpayment, a monthly payment plan can be arranged.
