Claiming Rules
Understanding Social Security Overpayment Waiver Procedures
Verified against SSA POMS as of September 24, 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 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 View source ›Administrative Waiver Tolerance
Under the administrative waiver tolerance provision, we can waive recovery for overpayments up to $2,000 if the individual is not at fault. This supports efficient administration by minimizing resources spent on recovering small overpayments.
GN 02250.350 View source ›Criterions for Fault
When assessing fault, three main criterions are considered: whether the beneficiary made an incorrect statement they knew or should have known was incorrect, failed to provide information they knew or should have known was important, or accepted payments they knew or could have been expected to know were incorrect.
GN 02280.845 View source ›Frequently asked
Can I get a waiver for a $2,000 overpayment?
Yes, a waiver can be granted for overpayments of $2,000 or less if you are not at fault, under the administrative waiver tolerance provision.
What happens if I'm found at fault for an overpayment?
If you are found at fault, you must repay the overpayment, and a waiver will not be granted. Fault includes not reporting necessary information or accepting excess payments knowingly.
How do I request a waiver for a large overpayment?
For overpayments exceeding $2,000, you need to fill out Form SSA-632-BK and may be required to participate in a file review and personal conference.
What if my waiver request is denied?
If your waiver request is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Make sure you consider presenting any new evidence that may support your case.
Can a waiver request be made verbally?
Yes, for overpayments of $2,000 or less, a waiver request can be made verbally if the administrative waiver tolerance provision applies.