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 Department of Social Protection — Social Welfare Appeals Office (0818 747 434) 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, Office of the Ombudsman (01 639 5600) intervenes. Legal Aid Board / FLAC (0818 615 200) helps with the appeal and, if the debt is real, with a repayment plan you can afford.

Call firstDepartment of Social Protection — Social Welfare Appeals Office

Report toOffice of the Ombudsman

If that failsLegal Aid Board / FLAC

🗣️ 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: Office of the Ombudsman, then Legal Aid Board / FLACThe ombudsman for procedure; legal aid for the appeal to the social court, which is usually free of charge.

📇 All contacts

Department of Social Protection — Social Welfare Appeals OfficeBenefits, overpayments, appeals within 21 daysWithin 21 days of the decision📞 0818 747 434 🔗 www.gov.ie/en/organisation/social-welfare-appeals-office

Office of the OmbudsmanComplaints about public bodies, freeWhen a public body does not answer or acts unfairly📞 01 639 5600 🔗 www.ombudsman.ie

Legal Aid Board / FLACCivil legal aid on low income; free legal advice clinics (FLAC)When you cannot afford a solicitor📞 0818 615 200 🔗 www.legalaidboard.ie

High Court — judicial reviewJudicial review of public decisions (strict 3-month limit)Within 3 months of the decision🔗 www.courts.ie

❓ 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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🧭 Is this still correct?

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