Social Security Information for those who serve in the military

By Alan Edwards
On Memorial Day, it’s important to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. We at Social Security honor the heroism and courage of our military service members and mourn for those who have given their lives in defense of freedom.

It’s also important to recognize those service members who are still with us, especially those who have recently been wounded. They’ve served us; likewise we serve them.

Earnings for active duty military service or active duty training have been covered under Social Security since 1957. Social Security also has covered inactive duty service in the Armed Forces reserves (such as weekend drills) since 1988.

If you served in the military before 1957, you did not pay Social Security taxes, but we gave you special credit for some of your service.

You can get both Social Security benefits and military retirement. Generally, there is no reduction of Social Security benefits because of your military retirement benefits. You’ll get your full Social Security benefit based on your earnings.

When you reach age 65, you’ll also be eligible for Medicare. If you have health care insurance from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or under the TRICARE or CHAMPVA program, your health benefits may change or end when you become eligible for Medicare. You should contact the VA, the Department of Defense, or a military health benefits advisor for more information.

If you’ve served in the Armed Forces and you’re planning your retirement, you’ll want to read our publication, Military Service and Social Security at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10017.html.

You also may want to visit the Military Service page of our Retirement Planner, available at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/veterans.htm.

Finally, find out about expedited benefits for wounded warriors at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10131.html

Second Annual Barrel To Keg Relay Race

A team from last year's race stops for a photo near the finish line.

Join more that 35 teams already signed up to take part in the Second Annual Barrel To Keg Relay Race taking place July 14th. The Relay Race is a race against poverty to benefit Community Services Consortium.  Join teams with names such as “That’s What She Said”, “Smells Like Bacon”, “Mullet Mojo” , “Real Housewives of North Albany” and the “Hagg Lake Harriers Teams 1 and 2.”

The race takes runners from the Harris Bridge Vineyard just out of Philomath to the coast through wonderful vistas of forests, rivers and coastal marshes to end at Rogue Ales Brewery in Newport’s south beach.

There is still time to get your team together to join in the fun. For information and to register go to the www.communityservices.us and click on Barrel to Keg.

Or go to www.runnerspace.com/EclecticEdgeRacing and click on the “Schedule” button and “July” to find the “Barrel To Keg Relay” listing.

No team? No problem. Individual runners may be matched with teams looking for additional runners by contacting Race Director Mark Barrett via email: info@barreltokeg.com.

Nonrunners are welcome to participate as well. Anyone interested in being a race official or volunteer or just looking for more information can contact Janet Hessel at jhessel@communityservices.us or 541-704-7626.

Find the Barrel to Keg Relay on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BTK.

BBQ Benefit For RSVP

Save the Date!


Sunday, July 8 at 1 pm

At the Albany Senior Center, 489 Water Avenue NW, Albany

Red, White & Blue BBQ

A benefit for RSVP

Featuring Chef Matt Bennett, Twice nominated NW James Beard Award

Tickets $25 in advance, $35 at the door, $20 for Veterans

Available in RSVP office at 250 Broadalbin SW, Suite 2A

Amazing Silent Auction Items, Entertainment

Plan to join us for a fun afternoon, benefiting a Community Services Consortium program.