Social Security Information

Active members of the Wellesley Contributory Retirement System do not participate in Social Security.

On January 5, 2025, the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset were repealed.  The next step is to patiently wait for a directive from Social Security Administration on how these changes will be implemented.  Retirement benefits from Wellesley Contributory Retirement System will not be impacted, by this repeal. Social Security benefits of many of the system retirees should be adjusted by Social Security. 

On January 24, 2025, Social Security update their website informing folks that may never have applied for spouses' or surviving spouses' benefits to apply now as it may impact benefit amounts due.   For up to date information please visit Social Security. 

What should people do now that the Social Security Fairness Act is law?

Because the GPO could reduce or eliminate Social Security spouses' or surviving spouses' benefits, some non-covered pension recipients may have never applied for benefits.

If you never applied for spouses' or surviving spouses' benefits:

You may need to file an application. The date of your application might affect when your benefits begin. Filing sooner might help you get a higher benefit amount.

  • The most convenient way to apply for retirement or spouses' benefits is online at www.ssa.gov/apply. The online application will still collect pension information until the application is changed; however, SSA will not offset the benefit.
  • The survivor benefit application is not available online.
  • People who cannot apply online for benefits should call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. to learn other ways to apply.

If you are not sure whether you ever applied for spouses' or surviving spouses' benefits:

You may need to file an application. The date of your application might affect when your benefits begin. Filing sooner might help you get a higher benefit amount.