How to avoid disability overpayment in Kentucky?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 04/15/2025
Receiving Social Security Disability benefits—whether through SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) or SSI (Supplemental Security Income)—can be a lifeline for many Kentuckians. But what happens when the Social Security Administration (SSA) overpays you?
Disability overpayments can happen when your income, resources, or medical status changes and the SSA isn’t updated in time. If this happens, the SSA may demand repayment—even if the overpayment wasn’t your fault. Fortunately, you can take steps to avoid this.

Here’s how to avoid disability overpayment in Kentucky and stay on track with your benefits.
Find out if you qualify for SSDI benefits. Pre-qualify in 60 seconds for up to $4,018 per month and 12 months back pay.
Please answer a few questions to help us determine your eligibility.
Step 1: Understand Why Overpayments Happen
Overpayments can occur for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Earning too much income while receiving SSI or SSDI
- Failing to report work activity or medical improvements
- Changes in marital status or living arrangements
- Receiving other benefits or support (such as workers’ compensation or VA benefits)
- Administrative errors by the SSA
Understanding the rules is the first step to avoiding costly mistakes.
Step 2: Report All Changes Promptly
To avoid overpayments, notify the SSA immediately when any of the following change:
- Your employment status or income
- Your medical condition or treatment
- Your living situation (e.g., moving in with someone)
- Your marital status
- Resources/assets like bank account balances
For SSI, even small changes in income or support can affect your eligibility. Use the my Social Security account or call 1-800-772-1213 to report changes.
Step 3: Keep Accurate Records
Keep copies of everything you report to SSA, including:
- Pay stubs
- Medical records
- Written communication
- SSA acknowledgement of reported changes
Having proof can protect you if you’re later accused of not reporting something.
Step 4: Use SSA’s Work Incentive Programs (If Working)
If you’re returning to work, ask about SSA’s Ticket to Work program and other work incentives, such as:
- Trial Work Period (TWP) for SSDI
- Earned income exclusions for SSI
- Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)
These programs can allow you to work without losing your benefits right away—but only if you follow the rules and report correctly.
Step 5: Monitor Your Payments
Check your payment amounts monthly to ensure they align with your expected benefits. If something looks off:
- Contact SSA right away
- Don’t spend the money until it’s clarified
- Consider setting aside any unexpected increases
Step 6: Respond Quickly If You Receive an Overpayment Notice
If you do receive an overpayment notice:
- Act fast. You only have 60 days to appeal or request a waiver.
- Request a reconsideration if you believe the overpayment was incorrect.
- Request a waiver if you believe the overpayment wasn’t your fault and repaying it would cause hardship.
Delaying action can lead to benefit cuts or debt collection.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help clients in Kentucky avoid overpayments and resolve disputes with the SSA. If you’re unsure how to report changes or believe you’ve been overpaid, we can help you:
- Understand your reporting responsibilities
- Communicate clearly with the SSA
- Appeal or request waivers for overpayments
- Protect your benefits and financial stability
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Don’t let a paperwork mistake or reporting error jeopardize your disability benefits. Whether you're applying for benefits or dealing with an overpayment issue, Hogan Smith is here to help. Call today for a free consultation — let’s protect the benefits you’ve earned.
Further Reading
Boost Your Chance of Being Approved
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.
How It Works
1
Briefly tell us about your case
2
Provide your contact information
3
Choose attorneys to contact you