[Code of Federal Regulations] [Title 20, Volume 2] [Revised as of April 1, 2004] From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access [CITE: 20CFR498.126] [Page 1199] TITLE 20--EMPLOYEES' BENEFITS CHAPTER III--SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION PART 498_CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES, ASSESSMENTS AND RECOMMENDED EXCLUSIONS --Table of Contents Sec. 498.126 Settlement. The Inspector General has exclusive authority to settle any issues or case, without the consent of the administrative law judge or the Commissioner, at any time prior to a final determination. Thereafter, the Commissioner or his or her designee has such exclusive authority.