The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a new way to apply for retirement, spouse’s, or surviving spouse’s benefits if you did not previously apply because of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) or the Government Pension Offset (GPO). According to their website, the SSA “will take an application by telephone for people who did not previously apply for retirement benefits because of WEP or spouse’s or surviving spouse’s benefits because of GPO. If you meet these conditions, call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
“When the system asks, ‘How can I help you today?’ say ‘Fairness Act.’ Then, you’ll be asked a few questions. Your answers will help us connect you to a WEP/GPO trained representative to take your claim.”
As the SSA shares updates on WEP/GPO repeal, NARFE wants to make sure its members are in the know on relevant information as it becomes available. NARFE’s Social Security Fairness Act FAQ can be found on our website here, and the SSA FAQ can be found here.