Social Security asks 5,000 to return Covid-19 relief funds

Social Security reported that over 5,000 people must return Covid-19 relief funds, primarily under Section 40. Those not receiving official letters need not return the funds and should beware of fraudsters. The spokesperson for the Social Security Office, Niyada Saneemanoomai, today made the announcement.

Niyada stated that the Social Security Office had sent letters to Section 40 insured persons, calling for the return of relief funds issued during the pandemic to support freelancers.

The exact number of individuals required to return the funds is approximately 5,000, with most falling under Section 40.

In contrast, Sections 33 and 39 had significantly fewer people affected. The amount of money each person needs to return varies, and provincial Social Security offices have already dispatched the letters to all concerned parties.

“If insured persons have not received a letter, it means they are not required to return any funds,” said Niyada.

Beware of fraudsters

She further warned that there might be fraudsters taking advantage of the situation by sending fake letters claiming to be from the Social Security Office.

“Those who receive such letters should contact their provincial Social Security office to verify the information.”

When asked about the conditions for those wishing to pay in instalments and the repayment period, Niyada mentioned that insured persons should visit their local Social Security office for detailed information.

Officials are available to provide guidance on how much to pay and the duration of the instalments. The emphasis is on ensuring that the repayment process does not unduly burden the insured persons.

There was a concern about whether those unable to repay the funds would face interest charges or other penalties.

Niyada clarified that the relief money was government support meant to assist insured persons, and it included several conditions.

Deemed undeserving

Those who did not meet these conditions must return the funds, as they are considered to have received money they were not entitled to, said Niyada.

“On the issue of interest or legal measures, I need to discuss with the legal department for clarity.”

She addressed another concern about whether the Social Security Office should be responsible for any errors that led to the misallocation of funds.

According to Niyada, under civil and commercial law, the funds are classified as undeserved money. This means that if the money was paid out and later found to be undeserved, it must be returned.

“I will also bring this matter to the legal department for further discussion to ensure clarity.”

The Social Security Office’s announcement underscores the importance of verifying the authenticity of any communications received and adhering to the legal obligations concerning the return of undeserved funds.

The office has taken steps to facilitate the repayment process while safeguarding the interests of insured persons, reported Khaosod.