A prominent group of Social Security beneficiaries are about to receive a boost in their checks thanks to a new law signed by President Joe Biden. However, it is important to note that not all those who receive these checks will see this increase.
Nearly 3 million people, primarily those who have worked as teachers, firefighters, police officers and in other public service jobs, will see an increase in their Social Security payments. This change is due to the signing of the Social Security Fairness Act, which eliminates the windfall benefit and the government pension adjustment.
The implementation of this law aims to correct the inequality that has limited full access to Social Security benefits for certain people for decades. As President Biden said, โAmericans who have worked hard all their lives to earn a living should be able to retire with economic security and dignity.โ This is the fundamental purpose of the Social Security system.
In a statement, representatives of the government agency reported that they are working on the implementation of this new law. At this time, beneficiaries do not need to take any specific action, except to verify that the Social Security Administration has their current mailing address and direct deposit information. Those who have made recent changes can make updates online by visiting www.ssa.gov and selecting the Spanish option if you prefer.
In addition to this important change, all Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.5% increase in their checks as a cost-of-living adjustment, starting this month. This will benefit more than 72.5 million people. For example, a person who received checks of $2024 during 1,927 will now receive $1,976 per month.
Another significant change that will begin this year is the change in the retirement age for claiming 100% of benefits. For those born in 1959, the age will be 66 years and 10 months, while for those born after 1960, it will be 67 years.
Finally, starting this year, the agency will require appointments to improve efficiency and service to beneficiaries.
This increase in Social Security checks represents an important step toward equity and support for those who have dedicated their working lives to public service.