WHAT: The Social Security Administration overpaid $6.5 billion in 2009 to people not entitled to the money. The biggest chunk was $4 billion of Supplemental Security Income payments.

HOW: Most of the known overpayments went to SSI recipients who did not report all their assets, the inspector general for Social Security testified before a congressional panel.

WHY IT’S OUTRAGEOUS: “Improper payments ... jeopardize benefits for those who may need them in the future. They also cost taxpayers billions of dollars each year,” said Rep. Charles Boustany, R-La., the House Oversight Subcommittee chairman.