The Social Security Administration (SSA) has unveiled significant updates regarding the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO).
Starting the week of February 24, 2025, affected beneficiaries will receive retroactive payments and an increase in their monthly benefit amounts.
This article details every fact, figure, and procedure you need to know to ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to under the Social Security Fairness Act.
What Are WEP and GPO?
The WEP and GPO are provisions that have historically reduced the Social Security benefits of individuals who also receive pensions from non-Social Security sources.
These provisions have often led to lower monthly benefits for many workers. However, the recent repeal of these measures marks a turning point, as beneficiaries affected by these reductions will see their benefit amounts restored retroactively to what they would have been without the WEP and GPO deductions.
Retroactive Payments Details
Under the new changes, beneficiaries who have been underpaid due to the application of WEP or GPO will receive a one-time retroactive payment.
This payment is designed to cover the increase in their benefit amount back to January 2024, the month when WEP and GPO no longer apply.
If you qualify, the SSA will deposit this retroactive payment directly into the bank account it has on file for you, no later than the end of March 2025.
Key Figures:
- Retroactive Coverage: From January 2024 to the current benefit period.
- Payment Deadline: Retroactive payment will be issued by the end of March 2025.
- Affected Programs: Retirement, spouse’s, and surviving spouse’s benefits that were reduced by WEP/GPO.
New Application Process for Affected Beneficiaries
For those who did not previously apply for retirement or spouse’s benefits due to the impact of WEP and GPO, the SSA now offers a streamlined application process by telephone.
Eligible applicants can now call 1-800-772-1213 from Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET. When prompted with “How can I help you today?” simply say “Fairness Act”. The representative will ask a series of questions to confirm your eligibility and guide you through filing your claim.
This new process is designed to make it easier for affected beneficiaries to secure both their current benefits and any retroactive payments they are owed.
It is part of the SSA’s broader effort to implement the Social Security Fairness Act, which aims to rectify past benefit reductions caused by WEP and GPO.
Below is a summary table outlining the key details of the new SSA updates:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Retroactive Payment Start | Benefits adjusted retroactively from January 2024 |
| Retroactive Payment Issuance | Deposited by the end of March 2025 |
| Effective Date of New Payments | Starting the week of February 24, 2025 |
| Affected Benefit Programs | Retirement, spouse’s, and surviving spouse’s benefits |
| New Application Process | Call 1-800-772-1213; say “Fairness Act” when prompted |
| Application Hours | Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET |
The repeal of the WEP/GPO provisions and the subsequent retroactive payments represent a major win for thousands of Social Security beneficiaries.
With retroactive adjustments covering the period from January 2024 and new payments starting from February 24, 2025, affected individuals will soon see their benefits restored to a fairer level. The streamlined telephone application process further simplifies access to these critical funds.
It is essential for anyone impacted to verify their eligibility and act promptly to secure the benefits they deserve. Stay informed, check your payment status regularly, and don’t hesitate to call if you need assistance.
This initiative is a significant step toward rectifying past disparities and ensuring financial stability for those relying on Social Security benefits.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the retroactive payment under the WEP/GPO repeal?
Beneficiaries whose monthly benefits were reduced by the Windfall Elimination Provision or Government Pension Offset are eligible. The retroactive payment will cover the increase back to January 2024 for those affected by these provisions.
How will the retroactive payment be issued?
The SSA will deposit the one-time retroactive payment directly into the bank account on file for each eligible beneficiary. This payment will be processed by the end of March 2025.
What should I do if I have not previously applied for retirement or spouse’s benefits due to WEP/GPO?
You can now apply by calling 1-800-772-1213 during business hours (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET) and stating “Fairness Act” when prompted. This will connect you with a WEP/GPO trained representative to assist with your claim.