Big Changes to Social Security: What it means for you
New legislation could increase benefits for millions of retirees.
Highlights:
- The Social Security Fairness Act eliminates two key provisions—Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO)—which previously reduced benefits for many public employees (like teachers, firefighters, and peace officers) receiving pensions such as CalPERS.
- 3.2 million people are affected, many of whom were previously ineligible for full or partial benefits.
- Retroactive payments for most of 2024 are being issued, and permanent monthly increases began in April for eligible recipients.
- If your spouse received benefits—even if they’re now deceased—you may now qualify for a spousal benefit you were previously denied.
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