Workers Compensation Offset Errors Estimated At $149 Million

A recent study by Social Security's Office of Inspector General sampled Social Security's worker's compensation offset determinations. In general, Social Security disability benefits are reduced if a claimant is also receiving workers compensation benefits. The computation of the offset can be complicated. The study showed a high level of errors, with most of the errors shortchanging claimants. The amount of money involved is staggering. Here is a table from the study:

Summary of Sampling and Estimation Results for WC Related Errors

Error Category	Sample – Error Claims		Estimate to Population
	Claims	Dollars	Claims	Dollars
Underpayments	19	$118,386	17,858	$111,268,016
Overpayments	8	$40,204	7,519	$37,786,614
Totals	27	$158,590	25,377	$149,054,630