Social Security Fairness Act Repeals WEP and GPO

Impact of the Social Security Fairness Act on TCDRS Members and Social Security Benefits

The Social Security Fairness Act was signed into law on Jan. 5, 2025, repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). These provisions previously reduced or eliminated Social Security benefits for individuals who received a pension from an employer that did not pay into Social Security.

• Windfall Elimination Provision: Reduced Social Security benefits for individuals who worked in jobs covered by Social Security and received a pension from a job that did not contribute to Social Security.

• Government Pension Offset: Reduced or eliminated Social Security spousal or survivor benefits for individuals receiving a pension from a job that did not contribute to Social Security.

How Does This Impact TCDRS Members?

The repeal of WEP and GPO mainly affects individuals with pensions from employers that do not participate in Social Security. Since most TCDRS employers do participate, many of our members were not affected by these provisions.

It’s important to note that this change will not impact your TCDRS retirement benefits. However, if WEP or GPO previously reduced your Social Security benefits, you may see a change in those payments.

To learn more about the Social Security Fairness Act and how it may apply to you, visit the Social Security Administration's website.

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