The Social Security Administration (SSA) has just issued an important update that you should know about—especially if you or your spouse worked in a job where you didn’t pay Social Security taxes.
Why this update could mean thousands for you
Earlier this year, Congress passed the Social Security Fairness Act, a bipartisan bill that eliminated two long-criticized rules—the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). These provisions had unfairly reduced or eliminated Social Security benefits for nearly 2.8 million public-sector workers, including teachers, police officers, firefighters, and some federal employees.
As of now, 91% of the affected individuals are receiving full benefits, but that still leaves thousands of cases waiting to be resolved—possibly including yours.
What the law changed
If you’re wondering how this affects you, here’s the breakdown:
- WEP reduced benefits for people who earned a public pension from jobs not covered by Social Security—despite also qualifying for Social Security through other work.
- GPO reduced spousal or survivor benefits for those who didn’t pay Social Security taxes through government jobs.
With both provisions now repealed, you may be eligible for more monthly benefits—and a retroactive payment dating back to December 2023.
Still waiting? You’re not alone
While the SSA began paying updated benefits in April, they’ve admitted some cases are more complicated and need manual processing. If your case falls into that category, it could still be in the pipeline. The SSA said it’s prioritizing these cases and working quickly to catch up.
“For the many complex cases that cannot be processed automatically, additional time is required,” the SSA shared in a public update. “We are expediting these cases now.”
July 1 is the deadline to watch
According to a USA Today report, the new SSA Commissioner, Frank Bisignano, has set a deadline: all unresolved claims must be processed by July 1. To meet that goal, SSA staff have been offered overtime and are working weekends.
If you haven’t received your updated benefits or a notice from SSA by now, expect one soon. And if you’ve moved or changed contact information recently, it may be worth checking in with your local SSA office.
What happens next?
SSA says the remaining complex cases will continue to be updated through early November 2025, but most payments, especially those requiring retroactive amounts, are expected to be completed well before then.
So, if you’re still waiting, don’t panic—but stay alert. With $14.8 billion already paid out, the clock is ticking for those who haven’t yet received what they’re owed.
You’ve worked hard. Now make sure you’re getting every dollar you earned.
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