The Social Security Fairness Act brings a major change in how benefits are calculated for certain individuals.
This new law eliminates the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), which have long reduced or eliminated Social Security benefits for more than 3.2 million people.
These individuals typically receive a pension from jobs that did not pay into Social Security, known as a “non-covered pension.”
This change is especially beneficial for specific groups, including some teachers, firefighters, and police officers in various states.
It also affects federal employees under the Civil Service Retirement System and those whose employment was covered by a foreign social security system.
However, only individuals receiving a pension from non-covered work will see an increase in their Social Security benefits.
For those eligible for retroactive benefits under this Act, a one-time payment will be deposited into their registered Social Security bank account by the end of March.
This payment will reflect the increased benefits dating back to January 2024, when the WEP and GPO were officially removed.
Since Social Security benefits are paid a month behind schedule, most affected beneficiaries will receive their adjusted monthly benefit in April 2025, covering their March 2025 benefit. This delay follows the standard Social Security payment process.
Beneficiaries should wait until they receive their April payment before reaching out to Social Security with questions about their benefit amount. The updated payment will not be reflected until then.
The impact of this change varies depending on the type of Social Security benefit and the size of the individual’s pension.
While some may see a small increase, others could receive over $1,000 more per month.
By removing the WEP and GPO, the Social Security Fairness Act aims to create a fairer system for those who have dedicated their careers to public service.
As the transition unfolds, beneficiaries should stay informed, and the Social Security Administration is expected to guide them to ensure a smooth process.
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