The Social Security Fairness Act, which repealed the Social Security Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), was signed into law on January 5, 2025. In essence, this means that some individuals with government and public-sector jobs will see an increase in their Social Security benefits. 

The Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision had reduced Social Security payments for nearly three million workers in the public sector. Those workers will now see an increase in their net pay. 

The repeal of the WEP and GPO is retroactive to January 1, 2024. The Social Security Administration, working on how to implement this Act, has provided the following guidance: 

• If you have previously filed for Social Security benefits and they are partially or completely offset, you do not need to act at this time except to ensure SSA has your current mailing address and direct deposit information, which you can update at my Social Security. 
• If you have not previously filed for Social Security benefits, you are receiving a public pension, and you are interested in filing for benefits, you can apply online or contact SSA to schedule an appointment. 

If you would like more information regarding this legislation or to receive updates from Social Security about it, visit Social Security Fairness Act: Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) update. 

Anytime there are changes to your income sources or benefits, it can affect your sense of financial security. To learn how AAFMAA can help to enhance your financial well-being, contact an AAFMAA Member Benefits Representative at 800-522-5221 or [email protected].