A waiver is not the same as disputing whether an overpayment occurred. Do not send a Social Security number, financial records, or a copy of the notice to WhatDoIFile.
1. Decide whether a waiver is the correct request
Use a waiver when you believe the overpayment was not your fault and you cannot afford repayment, or when recovery would be unfair for another reason. If you disagree that you were overpaid or believe the amount is wrong, request reconsideration instead. SSA says you may request both when you are unsure what caused an SSI overpayment.
2. Act before collection begins when possible
SSA says there is no time limit for filing a waiver. However, the agency generally waits at least 30 days after sending the notice before collection starts. A waiver or appeal filed within that 30-day period stops collection until SSA decides the request. Follow any date and instruction printed on the notice.
3. Use the current waiver form or telephone option
The current English form is SSA-632-BK, Request for Waiver of Overpayment Recovery, edition 06-2025. The official Spanish form is SSA-632-BK-SP, edition 06-2025. If you believe you were not at fault and the total overpayment is $2,000 or less, the form says to call SSA or the local field office because the agency may be able to process the waiver by telephone.
4. Prepare the explanation and supporting records
Be ready to explain why the overpayment happened, why it was not your fault, and why repayment would cause hardship or be unfair. The form may ask about household members, income, financial accounts, property, monthly expenses, and debts. It recommends supporting documents dated no more than three months before the waiver request.
If you or a dependent household family member currently receives SSI, TANF, a needs-based VA pension, SNAP, or Medicare Part D Extra Help, the form may allow you to skip many financial questions after you provide the requested proof.
5. Submit through an official SSA channel
- Sign in to the official SSA service, complete the form, and upload it when that option is available.
- Fax or mail the completed form to the local Social Security office identified through the official locator.
- Make an appointment with SSA if you need help completing the request.
- If you live outside the United States, including a U.S. territory or commonwealth, follow SSA's Federal Benefits Unit instructions.
6. Keep proof and read the decision
Save the completed form, supporting records, upload confirmation, fax confirmation, or mailing proof. SSA will issue a decision. If it denies the waiver, the notice should explain reconsideration or later appeal rights. If the issue is only the monthly recovery amount, SSA identifies Form SSA-634 as the request for a lower recovery rate.
Official sources
- SSA — ask us to waive an overpayment
- SSA — Form SSA-632 information
- SSA — Form SSA-632-BK, edition 06-2025 (PDF)
- SSA — SSI overpayments and waiver rules