Since President Trump was inaugurated on Jan. 20, there have been numerous changes to Social Security:

• Trump signed an executive order that’ll eliminate the use of paper checks by Sept. 30, 2025.
• Personal identification methods were improved to reduce fraudulent activity. For instance, updating direct deposit information will need to be done in-person or online via a “my Social Security” account with two-factor authentication.
• Former Fiserv CEO Frank Bisignano was confirmed as the new head of the Social Security Administration (SSA).
• Based on suggestions by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which was created by the executive order of President Trump, the SSA is cutting 7,000 jobs and shuttering some of its offices to lower its administrative expenses.

Overpaid beneficiaries can file Form SSA-561 (“Request for Reconsideration”), as well. This approach can work two different ways. For some, it’s a way to appeal the claim they’ve been overpaid. You’ll need to present evidence to the SSA that you haven’t been overpaid, and if you reconsideration is successful, the SSA will waive any liability.

SSA-561 can also be used by individuals who admit they’ve been overpaid, but disagree with the amount they’ll need to pay back. If the SSA agrees, the amount you’ll owe can be reduced.

The third legal option available to beneficiaries is to file Form SSA-634 (“Request for Change in Overpayment Recovery Rate”). This is the preferred option for individuals who admit they’ve been overpaid, but who believe a 50% garnishment rate would create a financial hardship.