Social Security Fairness Act

On January 5, 2025, the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82) was signed into law.  This legislation repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO).
The APWU will provide updates regarding the implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act on this page as we receive them.
 
Last updated January 6, 2025.

The WEP formula reduces the Social Security benefits of individuals with pensions from employers who were not required to withhold Social Security taxes, but still qualify for Social Security benefits through secondary employment.

The GPO is similar to WEP but affects spousal and widow(er) benefits of those receiving pensions from employers who were not required to withhold Social Security taxes.

When will this legislation go into effect?
As this bill was just signed into law, the Social Security Administration is currently determining how to enact the law and the timeline for implementation. Senators Collins and Brown are currently calling for swift implementation.

What APWU members are impacted by this law?

  • APWU members who retired under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and qualified for Social Security via other employment are impacted. 
  • Spouses or widows of APWU retirees who were impacted by these provisions

What action should I be taking now?
The Social Security Administration has advised the following:

If you previously filed for Social Security benefits and they are partially or completely offset:
You do not need to take any action except to verify that SSA has your current mailing address and direct deposit information if it has recently changed. Most people can do this online with their personal my Social Security account without calling or visiting Social Security. Visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount to sign in or create your account.

If you have not previously filed for Social Security benefits:
If you are receiving a public pension and are interested in filing for benefits, you may file online at ssa.gov or schedule an appointment.

Will I receive retroactive benefits?
This legislation will be effective retroactively to January 2024.  As the SSA determines implementation, we will update you on how payment will be dispersed.

If you would like to further discuss the impacts of the Social Security Fairness Act, you may contact the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213 or visit the SSA’s website (www.ssa.gov)