Update on Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset

Kansas City, MO – January 3, 2025 – The Social Security Fairness Act, which aims to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), has made significant progress in recent months. The House of Representatives approved the bill with a vote of 325 to 75, and it has now passed the Senate. The bill is currently awaiting President Joe Biden's signature to become law.

The WEP and GPO have historically reduced Social Security benefits for individuals who receive pensions from employment not covered by Social Security. The WEP affects those with less than 30 years of significant earnings covered by Social Security, while the GPO reduces benefits for spouses of individuals receiving non-covered pensions.

If signed into law, the Social Security Fairness Act will eliminate these reductions, allowing affected individuals to receive full Social Security benefits. This change is expected to impact approximately 3 million former public service workers, including teachers, police officers, firefighters, and their spouses.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that repealing the WEP and GPO will increase Social Security benefits for affected individuals by an average of $360 per month initially, rising to $460 per month by 2033. The bill also includes provisions for retroactive payments to cover benefits missed in 2024.

While the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act marks a significant milestone, there are concerns about the potential impact on the Social Security trust fund's solvency. Some analysts warn that the increased benefits could accelerate the fund's insolvency, which is currently projected to occur by 2035.

For more information on the Social Security Fairness Act and its implications, please visit the Social Security Administration's website here.

### Disclaimer: This news release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for specific advice related to your situation.