Following the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act, beneficiaries in the United States have begun to receive significant retroactive payments.
This new legislation has resulted in the repeal of two provisions that had for decades reduced the benefits of public sector employees such as teachers, police officers, and firefighters. As a result, over 1.1 million people have received monetary compensation.
To date, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has distributed more than 7.5 billion dollars in retroactive payments, with an average of $6,710 per beneficiary.
This adjustment is the first step in a reform that will affect millions of retirees and ensure that they receive the full benefits to which they are entitled. Furthermore, it is expected that the adjustments will continue in the coming months for those who have yet to receive their payment.
The passage of this legislation marks a watershed moment in the Social Security system, as it reverses the effects of the Earnings Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset.
These regulations reduced or eliminated the benefits of those who worked in industries that did not contribute to Social Security, sparking decades of criticism.
Changes in Social Security payments
With the repeal of the WEP and GPO, public sector retirees will receive both retroactive payments and monthly benefit increases. According to the Social Security Administration, these increases will be reflected beginning in April 2025.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that those previously affected by the WEP will receive an average monthly increase of $360.
Meanwhile, retirees penalized by the GPO could see monthly increases ranging from $700 to $1,190. These changes aim to ensure that workers who have dedicated their lives to public service receive fair compensation commensurate with their efforts. These changes are expected to benefit as many as 3.2 million people.
How to verify eligibility
According to the Social Security Administration, beneficiaries will receive official notifications by mail with information about their retroactive payments and monthly adjustments.
Those who have not received their compensation should wait until April to make further inquiries. In addition, some beneficiaries may need to take additional steps to receive their benefits.
To confirm eligibility or submit an application, visit the SSA’s website or call 1-800-772-1213, which is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Eastern Time). When you call, mention “Fairness Act” to be connected with a representative who specializes in the subject.