Social Security Column
By Erin Thompson
Social Security Public Affairs Specialist, Toledo, OH
The men and women who served our country in the military can count on Social Security to be
there for them throughout their lives. Active duty military members earn credits toward Social Security
retirement benefits. Wounded Warriors can receive expedited handling of their claims to receive
disability benefits. We also provide survivor benefits for young children and spouses of veterans who
have died.
You can learn more about how Social Security helps our veterans build a secure financial future
for themselves and their families at www.socialsecurity.gov/people/veterans. Our newest initiative,
Journey to Success: Employment Tools for Veterans with Disabilities, is a five-part online guide that helps
certain disabled veterans return to fulfilling employment in the American workforce. The guide
highlights resources, such as career counseling, job training, employment services, and more.
You can access Journey to Success at www.ssa.gov/people/veterans/. We know some veterans
suffered injuries so severe they cannot return to their previous work. However, for those veterans who
are interested in testing their ability to find and maintain gainful employment, these resources can help.
We thank all members of our military and veterans for their service and sacrifice. To learn more about
our programs and benefits, visit www.socialsecurity.gov.
