They want a benefit or allowance paid back

Direct answer

Yes, and quickly: a recovery decision usually has a 30-day objection window. Ask Dipartiment tas-Sigurtà Soċjali — appell (Uffiċċju tal-Arbitru) (153) 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, Uffiċċju tal-Ombudsman (2248 3200) intervenes. Aġenzija għal Għajnuna Legali (2567 4200) helps with the appeal and, if the debt is real, with a repayment plan you can afford.

Call firstDipartiment tas-Sigurtà Soċjali — appell (Uffiċċju tal-Arbitru)

Report toUffiċċju tal-Ombudsman

If that failsAġenzija għal Għajnuna Legali

🗣️ 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: Uffiċċju tal-Ombudsman, then Aġenzija għal Għajnuna LegaliThe ombudsman for procedure; legal aid for the appeal to the social court, which is usually free of charge.

📇 All contacts

Dipartiment tas-Sigurtà Soċjali — appell (Uffiċċju tal-Arbitru)Benefits, overpayments, appealsWithin 30 days of the decision📞 153 🔗 socialsecurity.gov.mt

Uffiċċju tal-OmbudsmanComplaints about public administration, freeWhen the authority does not answer or acts unfairly📞 2248 3200 🔗 www.ombudsman.org.mt

Aġenzija għal Għajnuna LegaliFree lawyer below the income thresholdWhen you cannot afford a lawyer📞 2567 4200 🔗 legalaidmalta.gov.mt

Tribunal ta' Reviżjoni AmministrattivaAppeals against administrative decisionsWithin 30 days of the decision🔗 justice.gov.mt

❓ 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?