CNBC turns to NOSSCR CEO David Camp for insights into SSA overpayments

As the issue of overpayments commands more public attention, the media turns to NOSSCR to lend expertise and depth to this systemic problem. NOSSCR CEO David Camp shared insights in a recent CNBC report examining changes the Social Security Administration is making to its repayment program.

The new rules apply to overpayments, which are triggered when the amount of benefits due is miscalculated and checks are sent for higher sums than what beneficiaries are owed.

When that happens, the Social Security Administration is required by law to seek repayment of the excess money paid to beneficiaries. But it might not be clear that an overpayment has happened for years, sometimes resulting in overpayment notices for tens of thousands of dollars.

In recent years, the problem with overpayments has become worse, said David Camp, CEO at the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives.

“There were always far too many overpayments,” Camp said, as the agency has struggled over the years with limited or outdated resources. “Although in the last few years, it’s been a steady, though shockingly high, sum total of overpaid individuals.”

Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, beneficiaries who face strict limits on their income and assets are particularly vulnerable to overpayment issues, Camp said.

The Social Security Administration said it is working to curb the burden to affected beneficiaries.

“We are no longer going to have that clawback cruelty of intercepting 100% of a payment if people do not respond to our notice,” Commissioner Martin O’Malley said during recent testimony before the Senate.

It’s encouraging to see that the media and SSA are paying close attention to this important issue. NOSSCR is committed to continuing our advocacy to help the administration move toward common-sense policies that benefit the people who need these benefits to live with dignity.