Some Social Security recipients could be in for a surprise when it comes to their tax refunds this year. Because the Social Security Fairness Act was signed into law last year, many seniors saw their monthly benefits rise, and that will end up affecting tax refunds this year. Roughly 3 million Social Security beneficiaries saw their benefits change last year. Changed tax refunds as a result of the extra income could impact seniors who are expecting a certain amount in refunds for tax year 2025.