Understanding Disability Overpayments

A disability overpayment happens when the Social Security Administration (SSA) or the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) provides you with more money than you're eligible to receive. Common causes include:

• Returning to work without reporting income
• Failing to disclose changes in living arrangements
• Medical improvement
• Incorrect information in your application

If you suspect you’ve been overpaid, it's your responsibility to report it.

Steps to Report a Disability Overpayment in Florida

Step 1: Review the Overpayment Notice (If You Received One)

The SSA or Florida agency will typically send a written notice outlining the overpayment amount and the reason. Review it carefully.

Step 2: Contact the SSA Immediately

If your overpayment is related to SSDI or SSI, you should:

• Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213
• Visit your local Social Security office
• Use your mySSA online account to view your benefit history

Inform them of the overpayment and ask how to proceed. Prompt communication can help reduce penalties or allow for repayment arrangements.

Step 3: Submit a Written Statement

You can report the overpayment in writing to your local SSA field office. Include:

• Your full name
• Social Security number
• The amount you believe was overpaid
• A clear explanation of why you believe an overpayment occurred

Keep a copy for your records.

Step 4: Notify the Florida Department of Children and Families (If Applicable)

If you receive state-administered disability support, such as Medicaid tied to your disability status, report the overpayment to DCF via:

• The ACCESS Florida portal (myflorida.com/accessflorida)
• By calling 1-866-762-2237

What Happens After You Report It

Once reported, the SSA or state agency will:

• Review the case and confirm the overpayment
• Provide you with options to repay, appeal, or request a waiver
• Work with you on a payment plan if needed

Ignoring the issue can result in withheld future benefits or collection actions.

Can You Dispute or Waive the Overpayment?

Yes. If you believe the overpayment wasn’t your fault or repayment would cause hardship, you may:

• File a Request for Reconsideration (SSA Form 561)
• Request a Waiver of Overpayment Recovery (SSA Form 632)

Make sure to act within 60 days of receiving the overpayment notice.