Social Security Fairness Act

Social Security Fairness Act FAQ

Social Security Fairness Act: What You Need to Know

The Social Security Fairness Act was signed into law on January 5, 2025. This legislation repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), restoring full pensions to public service retirees who have been subject to the WEP and GPO. The Social Security Administration is evaluating the implementation of this legislation and will provide more information here.


What should I do if I previously filed for Social Security benefits, and they are partially or completely offset?
It is advised that you verify that the Social Security Administration has your current mailing address and direct deposit information if it has recently changed. You can confirm this online with your personal “my Social Security” account, which can be found at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.


How do I file for Social Security benefits if I have not done so previously?
If you are receiving a public pension and are interested in filing for benefits, you may file online at ssa.gov/apply or schedule an appointment.


If you never applied for spouses' or surviving spouses' benefits:
You may need to file an application. The date of your application might affect when your benefits begin. Filing sooner might help you get a higher benefit amount.

  • The most convenient way to apply for retirement or spouses' benefits is online at www.ssa.gov/apply. The online application will still collect pension information until the application is changed; however, SSA will not offset the benefit.
  • The survivor benefit application is not available online.
  • People who cannot apply online for benefits should call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. to learn other ways to apply.

 

If you are not sure whether you ever applied for spouses' or surviving spouses' benefits:
You may need to file an application. The date of your application might affect when your benefits begin. Filing sooner might help you get a higher benefit amount.


If you are entitled to spouses' or surviving spouses' benefits, and your benefits are currently being reduced or eliminated by GPO; OR if you are entitled to retired or disabled workers' benefits, and your benefits are currently being reduced by WEP:
Consider reviewing the mailing address and/or direct deposit information that SSA has on file for you. This will allow SSA to adjust your benefits as quickly as possible. Generally, no other actions are needed at this time.

The easiest way for most beneficiaries to update their address or direct deposit information with SSA, if needed, is online with a personal my Social Security account. There is no need to call or visit SSA. Visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount to sign in or create an account.


For more information:
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call our office. You can locate the Sen. Moran’s closest office to you on our website.