If you’re a retiree, you may be eligible for an increase in your Social Security benefits—up to $1,071 or more—thanks to recent changes in Social Security laws. The Social Security Fairness Act has introduced updates that could significantly impact retirees, particularly those affected by Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO).
Understanding these changes and taking the right steps can help you maximize your benefits and claim retroactive payments you may be entitled to. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—including who qualifies, how to apply, and how to ensure you get the highest possible benefit.
How to Get the $1,071 Social Security Boost
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| New Social Security Boost | Retirees may see a $1,071+ increase due to updated policies. |
| Main Law Change | Repeal of Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). |
| Who Benefits? | Public sector workers (teachers, firefighters, police, etc.), early retirees, and those who delayed benefits. |
| How to Apply | Request a benefit recalculation via SSA.gov. |
| Extra Tip | Delaying benefits until age 70 could boost payments by 8% annually. |
| Official Source | Social Security Administration (SSA) |
Thanks to the Social Security Fairness Act, many retirees can now increase their Social Security benefits and reclaim lost income. Whether you’re just starting Social Security or have been receiving it for years, checking your eligibility and applying for an adjustment is crucial.
To get started:
- Log in to SSA.gov and check your benefits.
- Request a recalculation if your benefits were reduced by WEP or GPO.
- Consider delaying benefits if you haven’t started collecting yet.
With the right steps, you can maximize your Social Security payments and secure the income you deserve for retirement.
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Understanding the How to Get the $1,071 Social Security Boost: What’s Changing?
The Social Security Fairness Act has been a game-changer for many retirees. This law removes unfair reductions that affected people who had both Social Security-covered jobs and public sector pensions.
Before this law:
- Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) reduced benefits for those who had pensions from non-Social Security-covered jobs.
- Government Pension Offset (GPO) cut spousal or survivor benefits for those receiving public pensions.
Now that these provisions have been repealed, many retirees will see a boost in their benefits and may even be entitled to retroactive payments.
How to Get the $1,071 Social Security Boost: Who Qualifies for the $1,071 Social Security Increase?
You may qualify for the benefit increase if:
- You worked in public sector jobs (e.g., teaching, law enforcement, firefighting) AND also had a Social Security-covered job.
- Your Social Security benefits were previously reduced by WEP or GPO.
- You delayed claiming Social Security benefits, which might qualify you for even higher payments.
- You’re a spouse or survivor of someone affected by GPO and should be receiving full spousal/survivor benefits.
Example: If you were a teacher with a state pension but also worked part-time in Social Security-covered jobs, your benefits may have been unfairly reduced before. With the new law, you could see an increase of up to $1,071 per month or more.
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How to Get the $1,071 Social Security Boost: Step-by-Step Guide to Claim Your Increase
Check Your Social Security Statement
First, log in to your My Social Security Account and review your:
- Earnings history (ensure all wages are correctly recorded)
- Benefit estimates (check for past reductions)
- Payment history (see if you qualify for retroactive payments)
If your benefits were affected by WEP or GPO, you likely qualify for an adjustment and back payments.
Request a Recalculation of Benefits
- If you believe you qualify, you need to formally request a recalculation of your benefits. Here’s how: Call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213.
- Visit SSA.gov and submit a request online.
- Visit your local Social Security office in person.
SSA will review your case, remove WEP/GPO reductions, and adjust your payments accordingly.
Consider Delaying Your Benefits (If You Haven’t Started Yet)
If you haven’t claimed Social Security yet, waiting until age 70 could significantly boost your payments:
- 8% increase per year after full retirement age (FRA).
- If you qualify for the repeal of WEP/GPO AND delay your claim, you could maximize your benefits.
Example: If your current estimated benefit is $2,500/month at age 67, waiting until age 70 could increase it to $3,200/month.
Watch for Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)
Social Security benefits increase annually based on inflation. In 2025, the COLA was 2.5%, meaning benefits automatically increased. Stay updated on future adjustments by checking SSA’s COLA page.
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How to Get the $1,071 Social Security Boost (FAQs)
How do I know if I was affected by WEP or GPO?
If you worked in a public sector job with a pension and also paid into Social Security, check your past Social Security statements. If your benefits were reduced, you were likely affected.
Can I get retroactive payments for past reductions?
Yes! The SSA may recalculate your past benefits and issue back payments if you were unfairly affected. The amount you receive depends on how long you were underpaid.
How much could my benefits increase?
Depending on your work history and previous reductions, your Social Security check could increase by up to $1,071 per month.
What if I already claimed my benefits?
If you’re already receiving Social Security, you can still apply for a recalculation. SSA will adjust your future payments and provide any retroactive pay you’re eligible for.
