If you served in the military, you may be eligible for extra Social Security earnings, which could result in higher checks. Special military wage credits do not show up as a separate bonus check, but they can boost your earnings record that Social Security uses to calculate your lifetime wages.
It’s a little-known perk that applies to veterans who served before 2002. Here’s what to know.
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What are military extra Social Security wage credits?
Special extra earnings for military service are a boost to recorded wages for veterans who were on active duty service between 1940 and 2001. These wage credits increase your lifetime earnings, which typically results in higher Social Security benefits. It’s not a separate monthly payment from Veterans Affairs, but it can make your Social Security check larger.
These credits are only for people who served between 1940 and 2001, with tiered credits based on when someone served. Here’s how your recorded earnings increase when Social Security calculates your benefits, depending on when you served:
- 1940-1956: An extra $160 per month for each month of active duty service
- 1957-1977: Up to $300 per calendar quarter of active duty
- 1978-2001: An additional $100 for every $300 in active duty pay, up to a maximum of $1,200 per year
Congress discontinued these military wage credits in 2002. There was an additional provision for anyone who enlisted after September 7, 1980: The Social Security Administration outlines that some people may not receive the additional earnings if they did not complete at least two years of active duty or their full tour.
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Who may already have received them and who should check
The Social Security’s 2026 Military Service and Social Security publication lays out how military wage credits are added to your Social Security benefits. Active duty members who served from 1940 to 1967 are added when the recipient applies for Social Security benefits. The rule changed in 1968, and military wage credits were automatically added to the benefits of eligible active duty service members.
It’s a good idea to review your earnings just to make sure Social Security accurately recorded your work history and military wage credits.
How to check your record and what documents you may need
Log into your Social Security account to check your record. It’s easy to create an account if you haven’t already. You can compare the records in your account against your actual wages and ask the Social Security Administration to correct any mistakes.
Errors that could show up include missing years, unexpectedly low earnings during active-duty years or a service period that does not appear to line up with your records. Review your earnings history before claiming benefits.
Veterans may have to provide a DD Form 214 and other proof to verify service when applying for Social Security benefits.
