Social Security recipients can expect several changes to take effect in April 2025. These changes will impact millions of seniors in various ways. One significant change is the result of the Social Security Fairness Act signed by President Biden.
This law removes provisions that reduced benefits for retirees who receive pensions from employers not covered by Social Security. Approximately 3.2 million beneficiaries, including firefighters, police officers, and teachers, will see their monthly benefits increase. The average monthly increase will be $360 for retired workers, $700 for spousal beneficiaries, and $1,190 for affected widows and widowers.
However, in some complex cases, it may take up to a year for the Social Security Administration to process the adjustments. Another change is the implementation of stricter identity verification procedures starting April 14, 2025. This is to safeguard against fraudulent activity.
Changes seniors face in 2025
Those making changes through their online accounts won’t notice much difference. But individuals applying for benefits or requesting changes through other methods will need to visit a Social Security office in person.
On a positive note, changing the bank account for Social Security deposits will become much faster. It will take only one business day instead of up to 30 days. These changes can be made online or by phone until April 14, 2025.
However, the Social Security Administration will also revert to the 100% overpayment recovery rate for new overpayments occurring on or after March 27, 2025. This means that if an overpayment is made, future checks will be withheld entirely until the overpayment is recovered. Overpayments that occurred prior to March 2025 will still have the 10% recovery rate cap.
If you have questions about these Social Security changes, it’s best to contact the Social Security Administration directly for more detailed information.
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