They want a benefit or allowance paid back — can I object?

Direct answer

Yes, and quickly: a recovery decision usually has a 30-day objection window. Ask Instituti i Sigurimeve Shoqërore (ISSH) / Shërbimi Social Shtetëror — ankim (issh.gov.al) in writing for the calculation and the reason, and object if the amount is wrong or the overpayment was their mistake — in many countries an overpayment caused by the agency cannot be recovered in full if you acted in good faith. If they ignore the objection or take the money without a decision, Avokati i Popullit (0800 3232) intervenes. Drejtoria e Ndihmës Juridike Falas (0800 10 10) helps with the appeal and, if the debt is real, with a repayment plan you can afford.

Call firstInstituti i Sigurimeve Shoqërore (ISSH) / Shërbimi Social Shtetëror — ankim

Report toAvokati i Popullit

If that failsDrejtoria e Ndihmës Juridike Falas

🗣️ What to say

"I object to your recovery decision [number] of [date]. I ask for the full calculation and the reason for the overpayment. [I reported all changes on time / the error was on your side.] Please suspend recovery while my objection is examined and propose a repayment plan I can afford if any amount remains."

🪜 Step by step

Read the decision for the deadlineObjection periods are short and strict. File first, argue later.
Ask for the calculationYou are entitled to see how the amount was reached and which information was used.
Check whose mistakeIf you reported everything on time and the agency still overpaid, say so — good-faith recipients are protected in many countries.
Object and ask for suspensionIn writing, with copies of what you reported and when. Ask for recovery to pause until the decision.
Escalate: Avokati i Popullit, then Drejtoria e Ndihmës Juridike FalasThe ombudsman for procedure; legal aid for the appeal to the social court, which is usually free of charge.

📇 All contacts

Instituti i Sigurimeve Shoqërore (ISSH) / Shërbimi Social Shtetëror — ankimBenefits, clawbacks, appealsWithin 30 days of the decision🔗 www.issh.gov.al

Avokati i PopullitComplaints about public administration, freeWhen the administration does not answer or acts unfairly📞 0800 3232 🔗 www.avokatipopullit.gov.al

Drejtoria e Ndihmës Juridike FalasFree legal aid for low incomesWhen you cannot afford a lawyer📞 0800 10 10 🔗 juristionline.al

Gjykata Administrative e Shkallës së ParëAction against administrative actsWithin 45 days of the act🔗 www.gjykata.gov.al

❓ Frequently asked

Can they take it from my next payments?

Yes, but within limits — a monthly deduction that leaves you below the minimum is not allowed. Ask for a lower rate in writing.

They say I did not report a change

Bring proof: the letter, the online submission receipt, the date. If you have none, explain and ask for a waiver on hardship grounds.

Is this fraud?

Only if you knowingly hid information. An honest mistake is an overpayment, not fraud — do not accept a fraud label in the decision without objecting.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

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💶 They want a benefit or allowance paid back — can I object?