For those of you that are/have been/or know, someone that served in the military between 1940 and 2001 .....

Well I DID go to the http://www.ssa.gov/retire2/military.htm page and it IS true, from 1940 to 2001 there are benefits set aside for your social security payments. You cna navigat to the above link from teh SSA page so it's not a "spoof page."

BUT YOU HAVE TO REQUEST THEM!!!

Read and process as you see fit - but at least pass the word before the SSA goes bankrupt

Pat

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From: CGGunner
Subject: Active Duty Social Security Benefit

I haven't confirmed yet, but sounds good.

I received the below information and though that you (and/or someone you know) should be interested. Some of you are no doubt already aware of this. Please share it with others as you see fit.

I was not aware of this "kicker" and it does not sound as though it is an "automatic occurrence." Bottom line is an increase in your SS benefit....not huge, but maybe a case of beer per month for fishing trips

In summary:

Service In 1978 through 2001

For every $300 in active duty basic pay, you are credited with an additional $100 in earnings up to a maximum of $1,200 a year. If you enlisted after September 7, 1980, and didn't complete at least 24 months of active duty or your full tour, you may not be able to receive the additional earnings. Check with Social Security for details.

Service In 1957 Through 1977

You are credited with $300 in additional earnings for each calendar quarter in which you received active duty basic pay.

The website says: "Note: Social Security cannot add these extra earnings to your record until you file for Social Security benefits."

Might be worth placing a copy of this information into your Retirement Planning folder, or Social Security folder, because it appears you won't receive this benefit unless you ask for it (DD-214 in hand).

Something to look into, veterans!

The "kicker" details:
http://www.ssa.gov/retire2/military.htm

Other potentially applicable info:
Military Active Duty Addt'l pension
http://www.ssa.gov/retire2/qualify.htm