Full question: Hi Martha, I want to apply for Social Security in April 2024 (66 and 6 months). I was told that I get increased Social Security benefits for being a vet (DD Form 214) on active duty between January 1957 to December 31, 2001. Do you have any information on that?

Hello,

From 1957 through 2001, if you had military service earnings for active duty (including active duty for training), you may have extra Social Security wage credits added to your earnings record that may help you qualify for Social Security or increase the amount of your Social Security benefit.

The special extra wage credits are applied to your earnings, not directly to your monthly benefit payment. If this applies to you and the SSA cannot get proof of your service, you will be asked to fill out form DD-214 or provide other proof of service before they process your application.

Take care,
Martha

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