Code of Federal Regulations Title 5. Administrative Personnel § 5.831.1403 Equity and good conscience

(1) It would cause financial hardship to the person from whom it is sought;

(2) The recipient of the overpayment can show (regardless of his or her financial circumstances) that due to the notice that such payment would be made or because of the incorrect payment either he/she has relinquished a valuable right or changed positions for the worse;  or

(3) Recovery could be unconscionable under the circumstances.