Millions of Americans are receiving larger Social Security payments this month, thanks to a new federal law aimed at restoring full benefits to retirees who were previously penalized due to public-sector pensions. At the same time, others are losing disability checks as the Social Security Administration conducts routine eligibility reviews.
What’s changing in April 2025?
Two major developments are affecting Social Security beneficiaries this month:
- Higher payments for retirees impacted by the elimination of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), due to the Social Security Fairness Act.
- Disability benefit reviews are causing checks to stop for those no longer meeting medical or work eligibility.
Social Security Fairness Act: Who’s getting a raise?
The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law in January, removed WEP and GPO provisions that reduced or blocked benefits for more than 3.2 million Americans who also received non-Social Security pensions. This includes former:
- Police officers
- Firefighters
- Teachers
- Postal workers
The Social Security Administration (SSA) began issuing retroactive payments in February. By April 11, over 2.3 million people had received adjustments, with an average one-time payment of $6,710. Monthly payments reflecting the new amounts started going out in April.
When do updated payments arrive?
Monthly payments now include the updated amounts. Here’s the April 2025 payment schedule:
- April 3 – Retirees who began receiving benefits before May 1997
- April 10 – Birthdays between the 1st and 10th
- April 17 – Birthdays between the 11th and 20th
- April 24 – Birthdays after the 20th
How much more are people getting?
Increased monthly payments vary based on the recipient’s pension and prior Social Security benefits. Some may receive over $1,000 more per month, while others will see smaller increases.
What if your Social Security benefits were reduced before?
If the SSA already has your current contact and deposit information, you don’t need to take action. But if you’re unsure, log into your mySocialSecurity account or call 1-800-772-1213.
Meanwhile, disability checks are ending for some
Not all news is good this month. Thousands of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients are losing benefits following routine medical reviews. These reviews are standard and check if recipients still meet the criteria:
- Verified disabling condition
- Inability to work for 12 consecutive months
- Income within SSA limits
- No significant health improvement
If these conditions are no longer met, benefits stop. Those affected will receive a notice and can appeal with medical documentation. Payments may continue during the appeal, but could be clawed back if the appeal fails.
What to do if your benefits stop
If you receive a termination notice, act quickly:
- File an appeal immediately
- Gather updated medical evidence
- Contact the SSA or legal aid for help
You may also be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or other assistance based on income. Check out the SSA’s website for more information.
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