The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law by former President Joe Biden on January 5, eliminates the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), increasing Social Security benefits for over 3.2 million Americans. These rules had previously reduced payments for public employees receiving pensions from jobs where Social Security taxes were not withheld.

Eligible beneficiaries could see their payments increase by up to $1,190 per month. Public workers, such as teachers, firefighters, and law enforcement officers, who were previously affected by WEP and GPO, will now receive higher Social Security payments. Those already receiving benefits will get retroactive payments dating back to January 2024.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced that recalculated payments and back payments will be issued immediately, with most lump-sum payments expected by the end of March and higher monthly benefits beginning in April.

Critics argue that the act could worsen Social Security’s long-term funding issues, with projections already indicating potential insolvency by 2035. However, supporters emphasize the fairness of restoring full benefits to those who contributed to the system through other employment. Beneficiaries can check SSA’s website for updates on their payments.