Some Nuances of the WEP and GPO

I wrote previously about the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and how unlike many of my colleagues I actually think the intent is good, although the formula used to compute them is a very blunt instrument and could be improved. (We have each individual's earnings data, and we have, you … Continue reading Some Nuances of the WEP and GPO →

Are the WEP and GPO “Fair”?

Like many teachers, the first time I heard about the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), my first response was, “That’s not fair!” Why should my Social Security benefit (by WEP) or Social Security Survivor’s Benefit (by GPO) be reduced simply because I worked as a public employee and earned a pension … Continue reading Are the WEP and GPO “Fair”? →