WASHINGTON — Federal agencies reported making $125 billion in improper payments last year, a new high after several years of declines.
The errors included overpayments and underpayments as well as benefits to people who did not qualify.
The Government Accountability Office said Monday that three programs accounted for a majority of the errors: Medicare, Medicaid and the Earned Income Tax Credit. Together, they accounted for more than $93 billion in improper payments.
The increase comes after three years of steady declines. The Obama administration says reducing improper payments is a priority.
David Mader, the controller at Obama’s budget office, says the time has come for a more aggressive strategy. He outlined several proposals in President Barack Obama’s proposed budget for next year.
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