Military Service and Social Security: Understanding Additional Wage Credits

I read an article that says that someone with a military background, mostly National Guard or Reserve forces, are eligible for additional SS wage credits added to their earnings record.

Yes, individuals with a military background, particularly those who served in the National Guard or Reserve forces, may be eligible for additional Social Security wage credits, which can enhance their earnings record. Here’s how it works:

1. Service Between 1957 – 1967:

   • Additional Earnings Credits: For those who served in the military between 1957 and 1967, Social Security provides an additional $300 in earnings per quarter of active duty military service. These extra credits can potentially increase your Social Security benefits.
   • Providing Documentation: To receive these additional earnings credits, you must provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) with a copy of your DD-214, which is the certificate of release or discharge from active duty. This document serves as proof of your military service during this period.

2. Service After 1967:

   • Automatic Adjustment: For those who served in the military after 1967, there’s no need to provide a DD-214 to SSA. The earnings for military service during this period have already been adjusted, so the additional credits are automatically factored into your Social Security record.

3. Impact on Benefits:

   • Enhanced Earnings Record: These additional wage credits can enhance your earnings record, which is used to calculate your Social Security benefits. This can result in a slightly higher monthly benefit amount, especially for those who served for an extended period.

In summary, if you or someone you know served in the military between 1957 and 1967, it’s important to provide the DD-214 to SSA to ensure that these additional wage credits are added to the earnings record. For service after 1967, no further action is required as the credits are automatically included.

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