About Overpayments
An overpayment of benefits occurs when you receive benefits for which it is later found that you were not eligible to receive. You will need to pay back these benefits.
If you have an overpayment, the Division of Reemployment will send a letter to you outlining the amount of benefits that were overpaid and why the overpayment occurred. You can appeal the overpayment determination.
Overpayment causes
Overpayments can happen for several reasons.
Appeal Reversals
If you were originally determined eligible for benefits and that decision was changed due to appeal (typically by your employer), this would create an overpayment balance due back to the state.
Reporting and income mistakes
- Wrong wage amounts: entering lower wages than you actually made during your weekly certification
- The amount you must report is your gross earnings (hours x hourly rate)
- Unreported income: forgetting to report holiday pay, severance pay, bonus pay, or part-time work.
- Delayed reporting of work: continuing to claim benefits after you returned to full-time work
Missing work searches
Failing to complete or document the required job searches for a certified week
Providing incorrect information regarding work search activities
Change in employment status
- Separating from part-time work while receiving benefits
- Continuing to certify for benefits after starting a new job
We received new information that showed you were not eligible
Example: You indicated you were able and available to work but were out of the labor market or not able to work due to medical or personal reasons.
How to Repay an Overpayment
You can mail a check to Benefit Payment Control including your full name (as it appears on your claim) and your date of birth.
Mail your payment to:
Benefit Payment Control
P.O. Box 8007
Little Rock, AR 72203-8007
Other Ways the Division of Reemployment Recoups Overpayments
Benefits Offsets
The Division of Reemployment may take a portion or all of the weekly benefits to repay an overpayment.
Income Tax Intercepts
Intercepting federal and state income taxes to repay an overpayment.
Assessments
An assessment is filed with the County Clerk based on your physical address. If your physical address is out of state, the assessment will be filed in Pulaski County.
Garnishments
The Division of Reemployment can attach garnishments to paychecks.
Contact Us
Department: Division of Reemployment
Name: Benefit Payment Control
Phone: 1-844-908-2178
If you have a hearing or speech disability, dial 711 to reach the Arkansas Relay.