WASHINGTON, D.C. — If the Social Security Administration (SSA) overpays a monthly benefit, it will not be able to recover more than 10 percent—or $10, whichever is greater—of the total check, according to a recent policy change.

Before the change went into effect on March 25, the withholding rate was 100 percent. 

The SSA said the change aims to reduce the hardship on beneficiaries who face homelessness or are unable to pay bills. There will be exceptions, such as when an overpayment results from fraud. 

Beneficiaries placed under 100 percent withholding during the transition should call their local Social Security office. 

The SSA also offers repayment options as low as $10 per month for those experiencing hardship. Beneficiaries can appeal the overpayment decision or the amount, and they can request the SSA to waive the collection of the overpayment if they believe it is not their fault and cannot afford to pay it back.