Veterans who have served in the U.S. military are entitled to a wide range of benefits, including those provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA). While many veterans are familiar with benefits offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), it’s equally important to understand how Social Security works for those who have served. Veterans can receive both VA benefits and Social Security simultaneously, and in some cases, their military service may positively affect their Social Security payments.

Eligibility for Social Security

Like all American workers, veterans earn Social Security benefits through payroll tax contributions during their working years. To qualify for retirement benefits, a person must earn enough “credits” based on their work history. Typically, this means working for at least 10 years. Veterans who have worked in civilian jobs or performed active duty that included taxable wages are likely to have earned the necessary credits.

Military Service and Social Security

Veterans who served between 1940 and 2001 may be eligible for special earnings credits that can increase their Social Security benefits. These credits were given to recognize military service and help boost a veteran’s earnings record. For example:

• Veterans who served between 1957 and 1977 could receive extra credits of $300 for each calendar quarter in which they received active duty pay.
• For service from 1978 to 2001, additional credits were automatically included in the veteran’s Social Security earnings record.

Though the special credits for military service ended in 2001, they still apply to qualifying veterans who served before that time. Veterans should contact the SSA to ensure their military earnings are correctly included in their record.

Social Security Disability Benefits

Veterans who become disabled may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in addition to VA disability compensation. While both programs support disabled individuals, they operate independently. SSDI is based on work history and Social Security tax contributions, whereas VA disability is based on the severity and connection of a disability to military service.

Importantly, veterans with a VA disability rating of 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) can receive expedited processing for SSDI applications. This helps ensure faster access to much-needed financial support.

Retirement and Survivor Benefits

Veterans can begin receiving Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62, though full benefits are available at their full retirement age (which varies depending on birth year). Additionally, veterans’ family members may be eligible for Social Security survivor benefits upon the veteran’s death.

Spouses, children, and in some cases, dependent parents may receive monthly benefits if the veteran earned enough Social Security credits.

Combining VA and Social Security Benefits

VA benefits do not affect Social Security payments, and vice versa. A veteran receiving a VA pension or disability compensation can still receive their full Social Security retirement or disability benefit. This makes it possible for many veterans to rely on both sources of income during retirement or periods of disability.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Social Security benefits is crucial for veterans planning for their financial future. Whether it’s retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, Social Security can be an essential supplement to VA benefits. Veterans are encouraged to consult both the SSA and VA to ensure they receive the full range of benefits they’ve earned through their service and work history.