Stella
The long wait is finally over. Social Security has officially completed the distribution of retroactive payments linked to the Fairness Act, marking one of the most substantial benefit corrections in the program’s history.
Millions of retirees who experienced reduced payments due to outdated regulations have now had their accounts corrected. If you were affected, your payment should have already reached your account. Here’s how to check your eligibility, confirm payment, and avoid scams.
Understanding the Purpose of These Payments
For years, two restrictive policies—the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO)—caused reduced Social Security benefits for workers who also received non-Social Security-covered pensions.
This impacted teachers, police officers, firefighters, and certain federal workers under the Civil Service Retirement System. Spouses and survivors also suffered benefit cuts.
Everything changed on January 5, 2025, when the Social Security Fairness Act came into effect. This law repealed both WEP and GPO, restoring full benefits to affected individuals.
The next step? Refund the withheld payments dating back to January 2024—through retroactive payouts and higher monthly checks going forward.
Key Payment Facts and Timeline
The Social Security Administration (SSA) initiated the retroactive payments in spring 2025, completing the process by July 7, 2025. Here are the vital figures:
| Detail | Amount/Info |
|---|---|
| Average Retroactive Payment | $6,700 |
| Average Monthly Increase | $360 |
| Total Amount Distributed | $17 billion |
| Number of Payments Sent | 3.1 million |
Your exact amount may vary depending on your employment history and benefit records.
Eligibility Criteria for Retroactive Benefits
Not everyone received a lump sum payment. To qualify for the retroactive payment, you needed to meet these three conditions:
- Previously Lost Benefits: You must have experienced benefit reductions due to WEP or GPO.
- Received Benefits Between Jan 2024 – Mar 2025: Only those already receiving benefits during this period qualified for the lump sum. New beneficiaries will see increased monthly payments only.
- Up-to-date Banking Info: Your bank and address details needed to be current. Closed or inactive accounts disqualified you from receiving payment.
If you are still working in a non-covered job, you are not eligible for retroactive pay. However, your future benefits will be recalculated without the previous reductions once you retire.
How to Confirm If You Received Payment
To verify whether your retroactive benefit was delivered:
- Log in to your my Social Security account online.
- Look for a notification banner indicating that your record has been updated.
- Check for a mailed CP-126 notice detailing:
- Your new monthly benefit amount
- The retroactive sum credited to your account
If you haven’t received the notification or payment and believe you’re eligible, you should contact SSA at 800-772-1213 or visit your local SSA office.
Important Warning: Watch Out for Scams
While most recipients have welcomed this correction, scammers are actively taking advantage of the situation. Beware of:
- Fake calls/emails offering to “expedite” your payment for a fee
- Requests for gift cards, cryptocurrency, or unusual payments
- Threats claiming your benefits will be suspended
Important: The SSA never:
- Charges a fee for benefit distribution
- Asks for payment in gift cards or crypto
- Threatens to stop payments via email or phone
If you receive a suspicious message, report it to the SSA Office of the Inspector General at 800-269-0271 immediately.
The Social Security Fairness Act has brought long-awaited justice to millions affected by WEP and GPO reductions. With over $17 billion distributed in retroactive payments and increased monthly benefits, eligible retirees can now enjoy the full support they deserve.
Make sure your SSA account is up to date, verify your payment status, and stay alert to scam attempts. If eligible, your funds should already be in your account—bringing long-overdue financial relief.
FAQs
What if I qualified but didn’t receive a payment?
If you meet all eligibility criteria but haven’t received a payment or notice, contact SSA at 800-772-1213 or visit your local office.
Will I continue receiving higher monthly benefits?
Yes, if you were affected by WEP or GPO and are now eligible, your monthly Social Security benefit has been increased going forward.
How do I know if the payment was deposited?
Log into your my Social Security account and check your payment history. You should also have received a CP-126 letter in the mail.