The news of the elimination of the Social Security Fairness Act (SSFA) of concepts such as the Windfall Elimination Provision, known as WEP, and the Government Pension Offset, better known as GPO, was well received by a large number of people who saw their Social Security benefits reduced.
The Social Security Administration announced that there would be adjustments in the monthly payments for 3.2 million people affected by these concepts, who worked in something that did not reach Social Security coverage and therefore had not paid taxes for this concept.
Who qualifies for retroactive benefits?
The SSA also announced that there would be immediate retroactive benefits to all those affected by the WEP and GPO, including teachers, firefighters, police officers and other public service jobs covered by the Civil Service Retirement System; some 28% of state and local government employees.
It is important to note that the new rule does not pay benefits to those who have never paid Social Security taxes, but for those who have, their back payments begin in March and will likely continue through April.
Keep an eye on your email
The SSA will inform you of any changes in your situation and eligibility by means of your physical mail, with a letter in which you will be able to clearly see the adjustments or payments and the dates on which you will receive them, and which will be reflected in your Social Security registered bank account.
The Social Security Administration emphasizes that April is the ideal month to ask any questions about retroactive benefits, as with the large number of payments to be made and the processing of them, there may be certain delays, which will undoubtedly be released as quickly as possible.
