The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law by President Biden in December 2024, will result in bigger Social Security checks for 3.2 million Americans. The act repeals two key provisions: the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). These provisions had reduced Social Security benefits for individuals with non-covered pensions, such as teachers, police officers, firefighters, and some federal employees.
The repeal applies to benefits after December 2023. Affected individuals are eligible for larger checks going forward and are owed back benefits if they were claiming Social Security before the new law took effect. Benefit increases will vary depending on factors like the type of benefit, income history, and how much the WEP or GPO had reduced their checks.
Implementing the changes will take time. The Social Security Administration (SSA) expects it could take over a year to adjust all affected Americans’ benefits and pay retroactive amounts. It may be 2026 before eligible individuals see any of the increased payments.
Fairness restored for public servants
Those on Social Security should ensure the SSA has their current mailing address and direct deposit information, which can be updated through online accounts. The SSA will provide updates on their website as they work to implement the Social Security Fairness Act.
In Connecticut, the new law is a landmark victory for educators and state workers. At least 32,000 current retirees and many active employees across sectors like public schools, universities, and state agencies will see significant impacts. The changes will restore fairness in retirement benefits for those who dedicated their lives to public service.
The act is projected to cost nearly $196 billion over the next decade. Critics have raised concerns about the lack of offsetting revenue and potential impacts on Social Security’s long-term solvency. However, proponents argue that restoring fairness for public servants outweighs cost concerns.
Passage of the bill required a final push in December 2024, clearing a crucial Senate hurdle with bipartisan support. Connecticut Education Association President Kate Dias called it “overwhelming to know that we played a part in something that changes the lives of millions of Americans.”
