New changes at SSA regarding WEP and GPO

[Blessed]

I was trying to figure out if this is going to apply to me. I have read articles but I am still confused. I am the widow of a postal employee. I currently receive his SS and a small pension based on his service time.

I know there is a reference for workers that were in CSRS before May 97. Also reference that date for those that worked certain types of civilian job that was considered public service, their SS would be adjusted lower because they would be receiving a public pension. (double dipping) so called.

In my situation husband died 12/2010, He did start working for the post office in 1996. Prior to that he had his own business for which pay in for social security and medicare. I just can't seem to figure if it would changes for me. I think not but I wonder if I should file an application just to have them check.

 

[Wombat]

I know FA about SSA, WEP or CSRS even though I did work for GPO in the 1960s

 

[Teacher Terry]

Google the Social Security fairness act which was signed into law on January 5. Effectively in eliminates both wep and GPO. It made it possible for me to claim off of my ex-husband and my Social Security literally tripled. Before that it was below 500/month because of WEP.

I had to apply for spousal benefits now that I’m eligible. They automatically raised my own Social Security to what it should’ve been all along first. Once I applied for spousal or benefits, I got that increase also along with a year backpay.