Lawmakers Demand Answers on Social Security Overpayments Tied to COVID-19 Stimulus

Some Americans receiving Social Security benefits are being asked to repay or have their income suspended due to overpayments linked to COVID-19 stimulus checks. Reports indicate that recipients of Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) have seen their benefits affected, despite the stimulus payments not supposed to count against their benefits. Concerned lawmakers have sent a letter to the Social Security Administration (SSA) seeking answers and expressing worries about the negative impact on beneficiaries. The SSA has announced plans to review its handling of overpayments and improve the appeals and waiver processes. Additionally, the increasing benefits may push some recipients into higher tax brackets and impact their eligibility for low-income assistance programs.