### Question
What is the definition of obligation?


### Answer
The definition of **obligation** is as follows in *42 U.S.C. § 1320a*:

> an established duty, whether or not fixed, arising from an express or implied contractual, grantor-grantee, or licensor-licensee relationship, for a fee-based or similar relationship, from statute or regulation, or from the retention of any overpayment

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 1320a*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 7-SOCIAL SECURITY > SUBCHAPTER XI-GENERAL PROVISIONS, PEER REVIEW, AND ADMINISTRATIVE SIMPLIFICATION > Part A-General Provisions**

