Work Incentives Connections

SUMMER 2024

A newsletter from the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities / Rhode Island College

New Social Security rule eases overpayment burden

A recent Social Security rule change will make life easier for many people receiving disability benefits – especially those who receive, or worry about receiving, the dreaded overpayment notice.

Overpayments happen when Social Security pays a person more than he or she should have been paid. Overpayment notices are letters that explain how much was overpaid, how it happened and ask for the money back within 30 days. Some overpayments are small, but others can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

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TIPS:

During the transition period, Social Security may continue to use the old policy. If you have a new overpayment and Social Security withholds 100% of your Title II benefits, call 1-800-772-1213 to request the new 10% withholding rate.

If you are repaying an existing overpayment and Social Security is withholding more than 10% of your benefits, contact the number above or your local Social Security office to request a lower withholding rate.

Lunch and Learn: Work Incentives Sessions for SSI and SSDI Beneficiaries

All sessions are offered from noon to 1 p.m. on Zoom with subtitles in English and are presented by Certified Work Incentives Counselors. Click the name of the webinar to register.

SSDI Overview: Aug. 7

SSI Overview: Aug. 28

Working with Benefits – Yes, You Can!: Sept. 18

Work Pays! An Introduction to Youth SSI: Oct. 9

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the session.

Can't make a live session? Check out our Work Incentives on-demand webinars!

Benefits Counseling can help prevent overpayments

Last year, the Social Security Administration notified Deanne Gagne that she did not qualify for disability benefits because of her wages and that she had an overpayment.

She contacted Laura Elderkin, a Work Incentives Benefits Specialist at the Sherlock Center, who identified work incentives Deanne was eligible for but not yet using, enabling her to retain her Social Security check.

“She assisted me through the process, including all the paperwork, and worked hand in hand with my lawyer and my employer until I was able to resume my Social Security benefits and clear up the overpayment issue,” Gagne said. “Laura continues to be a resource whenever I need guidance or assistance.”

Learn more about Benefits Counseling.