Social Security survivor benefits after GPO repeal - how quickly do payments start?

I successfully applied last month after being affected by GPO for years. My survivor benefits started exactly 30 days after my application was processed. The SSA representative told me they're prioritizing cases affected by the repeal. Make sure you bring documentation showing you were previously denied due to GPO - this helps expedite the process. Good luck!

my sister got hers in like 3 weeks!!!! but my neighbor is still waiting after 2 months so i think its really random lol

As someone who recently navigated this process, I can tell you that processing times are currently averaging 4-6 weeks for GPO-affected survivor benefit reapplications. However, it's highly dependent on the complexity of your case and your local SSA office's backlog. A few tips for expediting the process: 1. Gather ALL documentation related to your previous application 2. Bring proof of your pension amount 3. If possible, make an appointment rather than walking in 4. Have your late spouse's SSN and death certificate ready The benefits are retroactive to January 2025 (when the repeal took effect), so even if processing takes time, you'll eventually receive all payments due to you.

I just want to say that I'm in the EXACT same situation! Former Illinois teacher, widow for 6 years, and got absolutely nothing thanks to GPO! I'm planning to apply next week and was wondering the same thing. Following this thread closely...

I WAITED ALMOST 3 MONTHS and had to call SSA like 50 TIMES to get things moving!!! The system is BROKEN even with the repeal. They kept saying my case was "under review" but nothing was happening. Don't assume they'll process things efficiently - THEY WON'T. Be prepared to fight for what's yours!!!

Has anyone tried using Claimyr to get through to SSA on the phone? I was struggling to get updates on my post-GPO application status and spending hours on hold. A friend recommended claimyr.com - they got me connected to an actual SSA agent in under 10 minutes. Saved me so much frustration! There's a video demo of how it works at https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU if anyone's interested.

I'm a financial advisor who works with many retired teachers and other public employees affected by the WEP/GPO repeal. Based on what I'm seeing with my clients: - Online applications are being processed in 4-5 weeks on average - In-person applications at SSA offices are slightly faster (3-4 weeks) - Phone applications are taking the longest (6-8 weeks) The most important factor seems to be having complete documentation. If SSA has to request additional information, that can add 2-3 weeks to the process. One thing to note: make sure you understand how your survivor benefit will be calculated post-repeal. It's not always a straightforward formula, especially if you're still working or taking your pension in a lump sum rather than monthly payments.

my aunt said they messed up her payment amount and shes been trying to get it fixed for like 3 months now so make sure u double check the numbers they give u!!!!

Update to my earlier comment: I received a notice that they're reviewing all GPO-affected survivor applications for accuracy. This might add a week or two to processing times going forward. Just wanted to give you a heads-up that the timeline might be extending a bit.

One more thing I forgot to mention: many SSA offices are offering dedicated appointment slots specifically for people affected by the WEP/GPO repeal. Call your local office and specifically ask about these special appointment times - could save you weeks of waiting.

I'm a retired teacher from Texas who went through this process last month. Applied online on February 3rd and received my first payment on March 7th - so about 5 weeks total. The key thing that helped me was creating a detailed timeline of my previous GPO denial with dates and reference numbers. One tip: when you apply, ask specifically about the "GPO repeal expedited review" - apparently there's a special code they can put on your application that prioritizes it. My local SSA office didn't mention this initially, but when I called back and asked about it, they were able to add it to my case. Also, make sure to ask for a receipt or confirmation number when you submit everything. I had to follow up twice because they initially couldn't locate my application in their system. Having that confirmation number saved me from having to start over completely. The retroactive payments back to January were included in my first payment, which was a nice surprise! Hang in there - it's worth the wait after all these years of getting nothing due to GPO.

I'm also a retired teacher dealing with the same situation! Lost my husband two years ago and was devastated to learn I'd get zero survivor benefits due to GPO. Reading everyone's experiences here gives me so much hope. Based on what I'm seeing from all your posts, it sounds like the key factors for faster processing are: 1) applying in person if possible, 2) having all documentation ready, 3) asking about that "GPO repeal expedited review" code that StarStrider mentioned, and 4) getting a confirmation number. I'm planning to apply next week and will definitely ask about those special WEP/GPO appointment slots that Natalie mentioned. After years of getting nothing, I'm cautiously optimistic that this repeal will finally give us the benefits we deserve. Thank you all for sharing your experiences - this community support means everything during such a difficult process!