Social Security

As government employees, OCERS members are in a unique situation with respect to Social Security benefits.  Below is some important information on how government pensions may impact Social Security benefits, and some links to get more information on the Government Pension Offset and Windfall Elimination Provision.

Government Pension Offset

Government Pension Offset is a law that affects Social Security benefits paid to a spouse or widow/widower of an OCERS member.  The law applies only if you receive a government pension (such as from OCERS) and are eligible for Social Security benefits as a spouse or widow(er).

For detailed information and to see the Social Security Administration’s fact sheet on “Government Pension Offset,” visit http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10007.html.

Windfall Elimination Provision

Windfall Elimination Provision is a law that affects those who work for an employer who doesn’t withhold Social Security taxes, such as for a government agency or an employer in another country.  If you are an OCERS member and are entitled to a Social Security benefit based on your own work and earnings, the Windfall Elimination Provision may reduce your Social Security benefits.  This law determines how your Social Security retirement or disability benefits are computed if you receive a pension from work not covered by Social Security.

For detailed information and to see the Social Security Administration’s fact sheet on “Windfall Elimination Provision,” visit http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10045.html.