Social Security Fairness Act: What Does the Act Entail and How It Could Impact Your Case

The Social Security Fairness Act is a proposed legislative measure aimed at eliminating two
provisions that significantly reduce Social Security benefits for public sector employees: the
Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). These
provisions have long been a concern for retirees and disabled individuals who have worked in
government positions but also paid into Social Security at some point in their careers:

What is the Social Security Fairness Act?

The Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82/S. 597) seeks to repeal

  1. Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP): This provision reduces the Social Security
    benefits of individuals who receive a pension from non-Social Security-covered
    employment, even if they have paid into the system through other jobs.
  2. Government Pension Offset (GPO): This reduces Social Security spousal or survivor
    benefits for individuals who also receive a government pension not covered by Social
    Security.

These provisions primarily affect teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants,
reducing or eliminating benefits that they would otherwise be entitled to receive.
Looking for additional information? Watch this TikTok from Liner Legal to get the know-it-all on
the Social Security Fairness Act

@backwardshatbarrister

President Biden signed the Social Security Fairness Act on January 5, 2025. Backpay for 2024 will be eligible for those who were subject to offsets. These are the steps you must take to get paid. #ssa #disability #ssi #disabilitybenefits #Socialsecuritydisability #ssdi #disabilitylawyer #socialsecurity #teachersoftiktok #police #policeoftiktok #firefighter

♬ original sound – Michael Liner

How the Act Could Impact Your Case

If passed, the Social Security Fairness Act could have significant implications for individuals
applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or retirement benefits:

  • Increased Benefits for Public Sector Workers
    • If you worked in both public service and Social Security-covered employment,repealing WEP would ensure you receive the full benefits you’ve earned.
  • Higher Spousal and Survivor Benefits
    • GPO repeal would allow spouses and widows/widowers to receive Social
      Security benefits without drastic reductions due to their government pensions.
  • More Financial Security for Retirees and Disabled Individuals
    • Many public sector workers have faced financial difficulties due to WEP and GPO. Removing these provisions could provide thousands of dollars more in annual Social Security payments.

What Should You Do Next?

If you are affected by WEP or GPO, you should stay informed about legislative updates and
consult a Social Security attorney to understand how potential changes may impact your
benefits.

At Liner Legal, we specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of Social
Security Disability and retirement benefits. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your
case and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.

Take Action Today!

Fill out this form for a free consultation or contact us today for expert guidance on maximizing your Social Security benefits.

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