Claiming Rules
Understanding Social Security Overpayment and Waiver Procedures
Verified against SSA POMS as of September 18, 2026
The short answer
A Social Security overpayment occurs when more benefits are paid than were due. Individuals may request a waiver to stop recovery if they are not at fault and if recovery would be against the purpose of the Social Security Act or deemed inequitable. The administrative waiver tolerance allows automatic waivers for overpayments of $2,000 or less under Title II and Title XVI if individuals are presumed not at fault.
Eligibility for Overpayment Waivers
To qualify for a waiver of overpayment recovery, an individual must meet two main criteria: they must not be at fault for the overpayment, and recovery must either impede efficient administration or defeat the purpose of the Social Security Act, or be against equity and good conscience. The administrative waiver tolerance allows waivers for overpayments of $2,000 or less if the conditions are met without requiring Form SSA-632-BK. GN 02250.350
GN 02250.350 View source ›Requesting a Waiver
An individual may request a waiver in writing or verbally. For overpayments of $2,000 or less, a verbal request suffices if the administrative waiver tolerance applies. For larger amounts, or if the individual is found to be potentially at fault, full waiver development is required, and they must complete Form SSA-632-BK. GN 02250.001
GN 02250.001 View source ›Administrative Waiver Tolerance
The administrative waiver tolerance applies to cases where the original overpayment is $2,000 or less. Presumption of 'not at fault' applies unless fraud or similar fault is present. The waiver can be processed without a detailed SSA-632-BK form under these conditions. GN 02250.350
GN 02250.350 View source ›Procedure for Processing Waivers
Once a waiver request is made, recovery actions stop until a resolution is decided. If the waiver pertains to an overpayment less than or equal to $2,000 under the administrative tolerance provision, processing is simplified. If the overpayment exceeds $2,000 or involves presumed fault, the waiver request is handled by forwarding to the Field Office for development. GN 02201.023
GN 02201.023 View source ›Waiver Request Denials
If a waiver request is denied, it indicates either the individual was at fault, or recovery is not against the Act's purpose or equity principles. Formal denial comes with the right to appeal. Reconsideration requests related to overpayment denial must establish the claimant's lack of fault with clear evidence. GN 02280.845
GN 02280.845 View source ›Frequently asked
How do I request a waiver for a Social Security overpayment?
You can request a waiver in writing using Form SSA-632-BK or verbally if your overpayment is $2,000 or less under the administrative waiver tolerance. A waiver stops recovery if granted.
What happens if my overpayment is $2,000 or less?
For overpayments of $2,000 or less, you are presumed not at fault, and the waiver can be applied automatically under the administrative waiver tolerance, negating the need for Form SSA-632-BK.
Can my waiver request be denied?
Yes, if it is determined that you were at fault or the recovery does not defeat the purpose of the Act or is not against equity and good conscience.
Is a verbal waiver request sufficient?
A verbal request is sufficient only for overpayments $2,000 or less where the administrative tolerance applies.
What if I want to appeal a waiver denial?
You have the right to appeal a waiver denial. You should provide new evidence or clarify circumstances to support your appeal.