Veterans Can Be Credited for Special Extra Earnings for Social Security Purposes

Under certain circumstances, veterans who served between 1940 and 2001 can be credited for special extra earnings for Social Security purposes.  These extra earnings may help veterans increase the amount of their Social Security benefit. 
 
These special extra earnings are granted for periods of active duty or active duty for training. Special extra earnings are not granted for inactive duty training.  Depending on the length and time frame of military service, some veterans may find that the benefit increase may be minimal.

According to Social Security Administration, special extra earnings for active duty from 1957 through 2001 may be credited under certain circumstances.

• For military service from 1940 through 1956, the individual’s Social Security record may be credited with $160 per month in earnings under certain circumstances. Note: Social Security taxes were not paid during this period. 
• From 1957 through 1977- $300 in additional earnings is credited for each calendar quarter the individual received active duty pay. 
• From 1978 through 2001- For every $300 in active duty pay, an additional $100 in earnings is credited up to a maximum of $1200 per year. If enlistment occurred after September 7, 1980, and at least 24 months of active duty or full tour was not completed, additional earnings may not be credited.

Find out more information in the recent Social Security publication, Military Service and Social Security, available at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10017.pdf.

Evan H. Farr is an Accredited Attorney with the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, who understands both the Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefit and the Medicaid program and the interaction between both benefit programs.  If you are a Veteran or spouse of a Veteran and you need assistance, make an appointment for a free consultation.  We can work with you to evaluate whether you qualify for The Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefit and help you file the paperwork. 

P.S. Veterans can take advantage of a special 15% discount at The Fairfax Elder Law Firm of Evan H. Farr, P.C.  Call us at 703-691-1888 to make an appointment for a no-cost consultation. 

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