SSA has the authority to suspend or terminate collection action on debts that do not
exceed $100,000.00. In accordance with 31 USC 3711, the head of an agency (including
the Commissioner of Social Security (COSS)) may suspend or terminate collection action
on a debt of $100,000.00 or less, exclusive of interest.
COSS delegated authority to suspend or terminate collection actions for overpayment
debts in the $20,000.00 through $100,000.00 range to the Deputy Commissioner for Operations
(DCO) and allowed that position to make further re-delegations. The following positions
have the authority by DCO to suspend or terminate collection actions for Title II
debts in the $20,000.00 through $100,000.00 range:
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Assistant Regional Commissioner for Processing Center Operations
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Assistant Associate Commissioner for Disability Operations
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Director, Office of Disability and International Operations
The following positions have the authority by DCO to suspend or terminate collection
actions for Title XVI debts ranging from $20,000.00 through $100,000.00 (see also
SI 02220.005C.6.):
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Assistant Regional Commissioner for Management and Operations Support
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Assistant Regional Commissioner for Processing Center Operations
IMPORTANT: At no time may debts be subdivided to avoid the established monetary ceiling. The
full liability of the debtor, regardless of whether the total outstanding debt originated
from separate overpayments, must be considered when determining the authority to suspend
or terminate.