What to Do If Your Social Security Payments Suddenly Stop

If you rely on Social Security, there’s a major change coming that could put your next check at risk. The government is bringing back a policy that allows them to take 100% of your benefits if they claim you were overpaid. That means your entire check could disappear, leaving you with nothing.

This isn’t fair—especially because overpayments often happen due to mistakes made by the Social Security Administration (SSA), not the recipients. The good news? You have options to fight this. Below, we’ll break down what’s happening, who’s affected, and what you can do to protect yourself.

Why Did My Social Security Check Stop?

If your Social Security benefits suddenly stop, it may be due to an overpayment. Overpayments happen when the SSA mistakenly gives you more benefits than you’re supposed to receive. This can happen due to:

• Outdated income records: SSA might not update your earnings or asset information fast enough.
• Processing delays: A change in your status (such as returning to work or receiving other benefits) may not be processed in time.
• Calculation errors: The SSA might have miscalculated your eligibility.

The worst part? Sometimes these mistakes go unnoticed for months or even years—and by the time SSA catches them, the amount they demand you repay can be overwhelming.

A study by the Social Security Administration’s Inspector General found that in 2022, SSA could have avoided 73,000 overpayments totaling more than $368 million if they had better systems in place. But instead of fixing the problem, they expect people to pay the price.

What’s Changing with Overpayments?

Starting March 27, 2025, SSA is reinstating a policy that allows them to withhold 100% of your check to recover an overpayment. This is a major reversal from the current rule, which limits repayment deductions to 10% of your check.

• If you were overpaid before March 27, 2025, your withholding rate stays at 10%, and no action is needed.
• If you are overpaid on or after March 27, 2025, your entire check could be withheld until the overpayment is fully repaid.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients are not affected—their withholding rate remains at 10%.

What’s still unclear is whether SSA will apply this rule to overpayments discovered after March 27, even if they happened years ago. If that happens, thousands of people could suddenly lose their checks without warning.

What Can You Do If SSA Stops Your Benefits?

If you receive a notice from SSA saying you were overpaid, don’t panic—there are steps you can take:

1. Appeal the Overpayment Decision. If you disagree with the overpayment or believe the amount is incorrect, you have the right to appeal. Use Social Security Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration) to challenge the overpayment.
2. Request a Waiver. If the overpayment wasn’t your fault and you can’t afford to pay it back, you can request that SSA forgive the debt entirely. Use Social Security Form SSA-632 (Request for Waiver of Overpayment Recovery) to apply. If approved, you won’t have to repay the overpayment at all.
3. Lower the Repayment Rate. If you’re willing to repay but can’t afford to lose your entire check, you can request a lower repayment rate. Use Social Security Form SSA-634 (Request for Change in Overpayment Recovery Rate) to negotiate a lower deduction.

All forms must be submitted to your local Social Security office. The SSA must stop collecting the overpayment until they make a decision on your request.

The problem? SSA offices are experiencing major delays. Staff shortages and outdated technology mean you need to act quickly and be persistent. Keep calling, follow up on your case, and don’t give up.

What If This Happens to You?

If your benefits have already been withheld due to an overpayment, you may still be able to appeal or request a waiver—even after the fact. It’s also crucial to speak up and push for change.

Public pressure has worked before. In fact, SSA previously reversed this 100% withholding rule after backlash. If enough people speak up again, we may be able to stop this policy from taking full effect.

Here’s What You Can Do:

• Contact your representatives. Let your lawmakers know this policy is unfair and needs to change.
• Share your story. The more people who speak out, the stronger the case for change.
• Stay informed. Follow updates on Social Security policies to protect yourself from sudden changes.

Final Thoughts

This policy change could devastate thousands of seniors and disabled Americans who rely on Social Security to survive. If you receive a notice of overpayment, take action immediately. Appeal if possible, request a waiver if needed, and make sure your voice is heard.

Have you ever fought an overpayment notice? Share your experience in the comments. Your story might help someone else who is struggling with the same issue.