Extra Social Security credit for your military service
If you served on active duty from 1957 through 2001, Social Security adds extra earnings to your record. That can raise your future check.
What it is
Social Security adds extra earnings to your record for active-duty military service between 1957 and 2001. These are not a separate payment. SSA adds them to the lifetime earnings record it uses to figure your benefit, so they can help you qualify for benefits or increase the amount.
How much extra you get
- 1957 through 1977: $300 in extra earnings for each calendar quarter in which you had active-duty basic pay.
- 1978 through 2001: $100 in extra earnings for every $300 of active-duty basic pay, up to $1,200 extra a year.
- After 2001: none. The extra credits ended with Public Law 107-117 (January 2002). Your military pay after that is counted as regular earnings.
1957 through 2001
Who qualifies
Anyone with active duty or active duty for training between 1957 and 2001. If you enlisted after September 7, 1980, SSA says you must have served at least 24 months of active duty or your full tour to receive the credits.
How to get it
- 1968 through 2001: SSA says these credits were added automatically. You do not have to ask.
- 1957 through 1967: SSA says it adds the extra credits when you apply for Social Security benefits.
- Check your record: sign in to your my Social Security account and review your earnings for accuracy.
- When you apply, SSA verifies your military service. Have your DD-214 or other proof of service ready in case SSA asks for it.
Trap to watch
Check your earnings record for military years that look too low or missing. If something is wrong, call SSA and bring your DD-214. Do not assume the record is right.
Where to call and where to go
Phone
- Social Security, Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778). Source: SSA publication EN-05-10017
Official pages