To keep a Social Security overpayment from happening, make sure you do the following:

• Report all changes in your household (earnings, work activity, etc.) within ten days (10) of the event or no later than the tenth (10^th) of the following month.
• Try to report all changes to the particular Social Security worker(s) assigned to your case.  
• Keep copies of all documents you receive from Social Security.
• Keep a copy of all requests and reports you make to Social Security.
• Make all requests and reports to Social Security in writing.
• Always get proof from Social Security that you have reported a significant change to them.  Have a copy of the report you submit “dated stamped” by a worker at the Social Security office or send your report “return receipt requested.”  While it does cost more than regular mail, it requires Social Security to sign for the document and the post-office sends you a “receipt” showing that Social Security signed for (received) the document.

Some of the other frequently asked questions about overpayments from Social Security are:

• What can cause a Social Security overpayment?

• What do I do if I receive a Social Security overpayment notice?

• What if Social Security is alleging the overpayment is a result of fraud?

• How can I stop Social Security from collecting the overpayment from my monthly benefit check?

• Where can I get a form to make a Request for Reconsideration and/or a Waiver Request on my Social Security overpayment?

• Where can I get legal help with my Social Security overpayment?

• What do I have to report to Social Security? 

To see all the questions and answers, click here.