- United States
- Minn.
- Letter
The WEP (Windfall Elimination Provision) and GPO (Government Pension Offset) unfairly reduce Social Security benefits for millions of public sector retirees, including teachers, firefighters, and police officers. The WEP can cut earned Social Security benefits by up to 60% for those also receiving a public pension from employment not covered by Social Security. The GPO can eliminate Social Security spousal or survivor benefits for those receiving a public pension. These draconian penalties disproportionately harm lower-income retirees and can push them into poverty. Congress must act now to fully repeal the WEP and GPO, ensuring all American workers receive the full Social Security benefits they have earned and paid for over decades of work. Ending these unfair penalties is crucial for the financial security and dignity of public servants in retirement.