If you are entitled to retired or disabled workers’ benefits, and your benefits are currently being reduced by WEP; OR if you are entitled to spouse’s or surviving spouse’s benefits, and your benefits are currently being reduced or eliminated by GPO:

If you are not sure whether you ever applied for retirement, spouse’s, or surviving spouse’s benefits:

• You may need to file an application. The date of your application might affect when your benefits begin.

If you never applied for retirement due to WEP or spouse’s or surviving spouse’s benefits because of GPO:

• You may need to file an application. The date of your application might affect when your benefits begin and your benefit amount. However, each case is different, and all other Social Security laws and policies, such as benefit reductions for claiming benefits before the full retirement age, the retirement earnings test, and others, still apply.

Surviving Spouse’s Benefits:

• The survivor benefit application is not available online.
• Call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 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 application.
• For additional eligibility information, visit www.ssa.gov/apply.