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Millions of Americans Face Social Security Cuts Due to Overpayment Clawbacks

By [Your Name], Staff Writer

Washington, D.C. — A recent surge in Social Security overpayment recoveries is causing distress among millions of Americans who depend on the monthly benefit for survival. Retirees, disabled individuals, and survivors are receiving letters informing them that the Social Security Administration (SSA) will deduct up to 50% of their monthly payments to recoup past overpayments.

The move comes amid growing scrutiny of SSA’s overpayment practices, which often result from bureaucratic errors or delayed reporting of life changes by recipients. While overpayments are not new, advocacy groups say the scale and speed of recoveries are unprecedented and lack sufficient safeguards for vulnerable beneficiaries.

"From 10 to 100 to 50% in 100 days? That’s financial whiplash," said Richard Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, referring to the sharp fluctuation in repayment rates imposed by the SSA in recent months.

A Complex and Costly Problem

Overpayments occur when the SSA pays out more than a recipient is entitled to—often due to income changes, marital status updates, or agency errors. Though beneficiaries are legally required to return the excess funds, advocates argue the process lacks transparency and can feel punitive.

"We’re being punished for problems we didn’t create," said Kate Lang, senior staff attorney at Justice in Aging. “Even a temporary 50% reduction can push people into homelessness or food insecurity.”

Limited Recourse and Overwhelmed Systems

Once notified, recipients have 90 days to appeal, request a waiver, or negotiate a lower repayment rate. However, navigating the appeals process is challenging, particularly for elderly or disabled individuals without legal support.

Though SSA states that repayment terms can be adjusted based on hardship, cases are reviewed individually, and many find the system inaccessible due to long wait times and understaffed offices.

"People shouldn’t have to fight