FAMILY FEUD: I was forced to pay a $15,000 Social Security overpayment – when they notified me it revealed the truth about my ex

According to THE SUN, A Social Security recipient recently uncovered surprising information about her ex-partner due to an overpayment error. Elaina, who shared her story on Facebook, was initially baffled when the Social Security Administration (SSA) notified her of an outstanding balance related to her children’s benefits.

Discovery of the Overpayment

Elaina had two children with her ex-husband, who was on disability and receiving regular SSA payments. She received child support from these payments but was unaware that her former partner had fathered another child with someone else after their divorce. The situation came to light when the SSA informed Elaina that approximately $15,000 in benefits had been incorrectly distributed to her children, which should have also covered their half-sibling.

Elaina paid back the $15,000 in full but subsequently wrote to the SSA to explain her situation. She argued that she was unaware of the additional child since she and her ex-husband had no contact and he was responsible for notifying the SSA about changes in his circumstances.

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Resolution and Repayment

Elaina’s proactive communication with the SSA led to a favorable outcome. The SSA not only acknowledged the error but also apologized for the oversight. They returned the full $15,000 to Elaina, along with interest, effectively resolving the issue.

How to Appeal an Overpayment

For those in similar situations, there are two primary forms to address an overpayment from the SSA:

Request for Reconsideration (SSA-561):

• • Use this form if you disagree with the overpayment notice or believe the amount is incorrect.
  • It must be filed within 60 days of receiving the notice.
  • You can file SSA-561 online through the SSA’s website or by contacting a representative.

Request for Waiver of Overpayment Recovery (SSA-632):

• • This form is used if you believe the overpayment was not your fault or repaying it would cause undue hardship.
  • There is no time limit for filing SSA-632 as long as you can provide evidence supporting your claim.
  • SSA-632 can be submitted online or in person at a nearby SSA office.

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Success Stories

Several Social Security recipients have successfully used these forms to address overpayments. For example, a couple in Michigan managed to have a $37,000 overpayment waived after a lengthy process. Another recipient corrected an incorrect $654 overpayment with an SSA-561, resulting in the request being rescinded.

Challenges and Setbacks

Not all cases end positively. Some individuals face significant challenges, such as being required to repay $121,000 within 30 days or receiving a notice about an $84,000 overpayment, which can be overwhelming and distressing.