Waive repayment of overpaid Social Security benefits

Benefits are overpaid when we can't accurately calculate your benefit amount because our information is wrong or incomplete. It can happen if you don't share updates with us about what's changed in your life, like your ability to work, living situation, marital status, or income.

If you got a letter in the mail that says you were overpaid and need to pay us back, you can request a waiver. Ask us to waive repayment if you can't afford it and feel the error wasn't your fault, or if you believe the overpayment is unfair for another reason. We may ask to see details about your income and expenses.