What Are Disability Overpayments?

Overpayments occur when the SSA or Florida's disability insurance programs give you more benefits than you’re legally entitled to. This could be due to:

• Changes in income or work activity
• Medical improvement
• Incorrect or missing information in your application
• Delays in reporting changes to the SSA

If you receive an overpayment, the SSA will usually send you a notice and demand repayment.

Common Causes of Overpayments in Florida

Returning to Work Without Reporting

If you start working again, even part-time, and don’t report your income, the SSA may continue paying full benefits—resulting in overpayment.

Changes in Living Situation or Assets

For SSI recipients, changes in living arrangements, household income, or assets can affect eligibility. Failing to update your records can trigger overpayments.

Medical Recovery

If your condition improves and you don’t notify the SSA, you may still receive benefits you're no longer eligible for.

How to Prevent Overpayments

Report Changes Immediately

Notify the SSA of any changes in:

• Income
• Work status
• Living arrangements
• Bank accounts or assets

You can report changes online through your mySSA account, by phone, or at a local SSA office.

Keep Documentation

Maintain records of all communications, pay stubs, medical visits, and correspondence with the SSA

Respond to SSA Notices Promptly

If the SSA requests information or notifies you of a pending review, respond immediately. Delays or non-response can lead to miscalculations.

Participate in Work Incentives Counseling

If you're planning to return to work, ask the SSA about Ticket to Work or consult a certified work incentives counselor to ensure you're complying with SSA rules.

What If You’re Overpaid?

If you receive an overpayment notice:

• Don’t ignore it.
• You can request a waiver if the overpayment wasn’t your fault and repayment would cause hardship.
• Alternatively, you can request a reconsideration if you believe the overpayment is incorrect.