Payal Chhelavda

Some US beneficiaries received notices alleging overpayments worth thousands, and the agency generally gave 30 days to respond before starting collection from monthly benefits.
If you get one, experts said act quickly: ask for a detailed explanation, review your records, and do not assume the agency's calculation is correct.
People who dispute the overpayment or amount can file a reconsideration request, and acting within 30 days can pause collection while review continues.
Because many recipients depend on benefits for essential living costs, losing part of a monthly check can quickly create serious financial strain.
Those not at fault, or unable to repay, can request a waiver; if approved, the agency may cancel repayment requirements entirely for them.

A $35K Social Security Overpayment

With home equity loan rates near ~8% currently, a $25K loan placed payments near $305 over 10 yr or $241 over 15 yr.
Unlike a HELOC, a home equity loan offered a fixed rate, giving borrowers more predictable monthly budgeting unless they later chose refinancing.
Borrowing a smaller amount can help manage risk, and $25K was described as well below typical available equity, making repayment potentially easier for homeowners.
Because your home secures the loan, careful planning matters, and borrowers may benefit from comparing lenders rather than automatically using their current mortgage provider.
With a possible policy rate hike looming in the current period, locking a fixed home equity loan sooner could help protect against higher borrowing costs.