Thousands of Americans just got some surprising news—especially if you are receiving Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) made a change that could mean more money for you each month. And here is the best part: if you were affected, you might even get a retroactive payment.
Let us break down what happened, who is eligible, and what you should do next.
What is the recent change in social security benefits?
A new interpretation of the Social Security Equity Act, signed into law in January 2025, removed two controversial rules:
- Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP)
- Government Pension Offset (GPO)
These two rules reduced Social Security benefits for public workers and their spouses, even if they had worked and paid into the system for years. Now that they are gone, many people who lost out on their full benefits may finally get the money they deserve.
Who is owed retroactive payments?
If you are a retired government worker or the spouse of one, this may apply to you. Many people were wrongly told by SSA employees that they were not eligible for spousal benefits. Some were told their benefit would be reduced to zero because of the GPO.
Here is the big issue:
- The law says retroactive payments should go back to January 2024
- But the SSA is only applying six months of retroactivity from your last contact with them
So, if you did not reach out recently, you might not get everything you are owed—unless the rule changes.
How much money could you receive?
This is not just a few dollars. The average spousal benefit is about $931 per month. If you have been missing out since January 2024, that is over $11,000 in back pay.
And this does not include your monthly increase moving forward. This change could make a big difference for many retirees and widows who have been struggling.
What are lawmakers doing about it?
Several lawmakers are stepping in to help. Senators John Fetterman, Susan Collins, and Bill Cassidy have written to the acting SSA commissioner. They are asking for:
- A full review of the current retroactivity policy
- Clearer rules so that eligible people are not left out
- Full payment for everyone affected, not just six months
So far, the SSA has not responded.
What should you do if you think you are affected?
If this sounds like you or someone you know, here is what you can do:
- Contact the SSA as soon as possible and ask about your eligibility
- Keep a record of when you reach out (this matters for retroactive payments)
- Follow updates from your state representatives or senators
Even if you were denied in the past, it is worth trying again under the new rules.
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