Treasury Offset Program

The Treasury Offset Program allows the U.S. government to intercept federal payments—including tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and federal employee salaries—to recover debts owed to federal or state agencies. If you're expecting a tax refund or receive regular federal payments and have unpaid child support, student loans, or other government debts, this program could significantly reduce or eliminate what you receive. Understanding how offset works is essential for expats managing U.S. tax obligations or financial responsibilities from abroad.