Over 2 million Americans could see their Social Security payments increase by as much as $1,071 per month due to a major policy shift. The repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), combined with the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), marks a significant change for many retirees, particularly public service workers.

If you’re a retired educator, police officer, firefighter, or someone with a mixed work history, you may now qualify for a larger Social Security check. This guide explains what the new changes mean, who is eligible, and how to claim your increased benefits.

Understanding the $1,071 Social Security Increase

What Is This Increase About?

The potential increase in Social Security payments results from two major policy changes along with a scheduled COLA adjustment:

1. Repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP)
2. Repeal of the Government Pension Offset (GPO)
3. A 2.5% COLA Increase in January 2025

The WEP and GPO were originally designed to prevent retirees from «double-dipping» in benefits when they received a pension from a job that did not withhold Social Security taxes. However, critics argued that these provisions unfairly reduced benefits for many public service workers, including teachers, police officers, and firefighters.

With the Social Security Fairness Act eliminating WEP and GPO, retirees who were previously affected will now receive the full benefits they’ve earned, restoring potentially hundreds—or even over a thousand—dollars per month.

Who Will Benefit the Most?

This increase primarily impacts:

• Retirees with non-covered pensions from state or local government jobs
• Those eligible for spousal or survivor benefits who were previously affected by GPO
• Public servants, including teachers, police officers, firefighters, and municipal workers
• Dual-eligible retirees—those who worked in both Social Security-covered and non-covered jobs

According to estimates from the Congressional Research Service, over 2 million Americans will see an increase in their Social Security benefits due to these changes.

Who Is Eligible for the Social Security Increase?

You may qualify for this increase if you meet the following conditions:

1. You Worked in a Job That Didn’t Withhold Social Security Taxes

If you worked for a public school, police department, fire department, or other state/local government job that did not participate in Social Security, your benefits were likely reduced by WEP or GPO. With their repeal, these reductions are eliminated.

2. You Have Earned at Least 40 Work Credits

To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you must have accumulated 40 credits, typically by working at least 10 years in a Social Security-covered job. You can check your credit total by logging into your My Social Security account.

3. You Are a U.S. Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident

Only U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents are eligible for Social Security benefits.

4. You Were Previously Affected by the Government Pension Offset (GPO)

If you received spousal or survivor benefits that were reduced because of GPO, you will now receive the full benefit amount with a potential increase.

How to Apply for the Social Security Increase

Step 1: Create or Log Into Your SSA Account

Visit SSA.gov and log into or create a My Social Security account. This allows you to check your records, verify eligibility, and track your benefits.

Step 2: Verify Your Work History and Pension Details

Make sure your earnings history is correct. Errors in your Social Security records could delay your eligibility or reduce your payment. If you see any mistakes, contact the SSA immediately.

Step 3: Update Your Contact Information

Ensure your phone number, mailing address, and email are current with the SSA so you receive important notices.

Step 4: Watch for SSA Notifications

The SSA will begin notifying eligible individuals by early 2025 via mail and online messages. Keep an eye out for instructions on how to proceed with your claim.

Step 5: Submit Your Application or Confirmation

Depending on your case, you may need to:

• Apply online through the SSA Retirement Benefits Portal
• Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance
• Visit your local SSA office for in-person help

Step 6: Monitor and Track Your Payments

Once approved, your Social Security payments will be adjusted and directly deposited into your bank account. Check your My Social Security account and bank statements to ensure your benefits are correct.

Real-World Example

Meet Linda, a retired teacher from California. Linda worked 25 years in a public school district that didn’t withhold Social Security taxes. Although she qualified for spousal benefits through her late husband, her payments were significantly reduced due to GPO.

Before the repeal, Linda received only a fraction of what she was entitled to. But in 2025, after confirming her eligibility and updating her records with SSA, her monthly payment increased by $870—fully restoring her survivor benefits. This additional income now helps Linda cover medical expenses, utilities, and even travel to visit her grandchildren.

When Will the Increase Take Effect?

The Social Security increase is expected to take effect in January 2025, aligning with the annual COLA adjustment.

What Should You Do Now?

1. Check your eligibility – Log into My Social Security and review your work history.
2. Update your records – Ensure all personal details are accurate.
3. Watch for SSA notifications – Expect notices by early 2025.
4. Submit any required documents – Follow SSA instructions to complete your claim.
5. Track your benefits – Confirm your payments reflect the increase.

By taking action now, you can ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve and avoid unnecessary delays.

Final Thoughts

The repeal of WEP and GPO is a historic win for retirees who spent their careers in public service. This Social Security update will restore full benefits to millions of Americans, increasing monthly payments by up to $1,071.

If you or a loved one qualify for this increase, take immediate steps to update your records and apply for the benefits you’ve rightfully earned.

For the latest information, visit SSA.gov or contact the Social Security Administration directly.

FAQs:

Titles:

1. Social Security Payments to Increase by Up to $1,071 in 2025 – Are You Eligible?
2. Public Service Workers Win Big: Social Security Benefit Increases Explained
3. Millions to Receive Higher Social Security Payments – Here’s How to Apply
4. WEP & GPO Repealed: What It Means for Your Social Security Benefits
5. How to Get the New Social Security Increase – Step-by-Step Guide

Keywords:

Social Security increase 2025, WEP repeal, GPO repeal, Social Security Fairness Act, higher Social Security payments, COLA 2025, public service retirement, Social Security benefits for teachers