Social Security Q&A

Do Texas teachers now automatically receive Social Security?

No. You must still have:

• Worked in a job that paid into Social Security, or
• Be eligible through a spouse

Are there still penalties or reductions?

No. The WEP and GPO no longer apply, so benefits are no longer reduced due to your TRS pension.

Do I need to take action?

In many cases, adjustments were automatic. However, you should:

• Review your Social Security account
• Confirm your earnings history is accurate
• Contact SSA if you believe you are eligible but have not received an update

I worked in another profession before teaching. Will I receive my Social Security benefit?

Yes. You will now receive your full earned Social Security benefit, with no reduction from WEP.

I am eligible for Social Security through my spouse. Will my benefits be reduced?

No. The GPO has been eliminated, so you may receive full spousal or survivor benefits.

Do years of Social Security participation still affect penalties?

No. Since WEP has been repealed, there are no longer penalty tiers or reductions based on years worked.

Can I increase my Social Security benefit?

Yes. Your benefit is still based on:

• Your lifetime Social Security earnings
• The age at which you claim benefits

Does working in a district that participates in Social Security matter now?

It only matters for earning new Social Security credits, not for avoiding penalties. The previous exemption strategies tied to WEP and GPO are no longer relevant.

A handful of Texas school districts participate in Social Security. In some, all employees pay in and earn benefits; in others, only certain categories of employees (such as support personnel) participate. Click here for a list of participating districts.