I was declared 100& totally disability in 2002. Since then I…

There are certain debts that are allowed to be garnished from social security benefits. You didn't mention what the debt was, but if Dept of Justice is involved, I suspect it is a Federal debt. And they are likely legally allowed to collect from your benefit.

If you don't know what the debt is, a review of your personal credit report will likely show the debt.

Once you know what the debt is, you can determine if it is legally enforceable against your social security benefit. Generally, most consumer debt can not be collected from social security benefits. Many federal debts can.

Once you know the debt, you can research the specifics of the debt and consider your options.

A few other things you mention:

A review of your SSA disability case would have no impact on the existence of this debt.

As of 2015, IRS does not levy against disability benefits.

At full retirement age, SSA converts your disability benefit to traditional social security, which, unfortunately, is treated differently. The Federal Payment Levy Program (FPLP) allows the 15% garnishment from regular SS benefits.

There are remedies, including hardship relief and other options, but you should know what you are being pursued for first. The credit report will certainly show the existence of the debt, and likely contact information for you to address the matter directly.

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/social-security-benefits-eligible-for-the-federal-payment-levy-program is a link to the IRS position on FPLP.

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