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Program Description

Certain World War II Veterans can get special benefits if they served in one of the two groups below:

  • The active U.S. military from September 16, 1940 through July 24, 1947.
  • The organized military of the Philippines from July 26, 1941 through December 30, 1946. During these periods, those forces were in the service of the U.S. Armed Forces.

General Program Requirements

To qualify, you must meet all of these conditions:

  • Live outside of the U.S.
  • Are age 65 or older as of December 14, 1999.
  • Are a World War II Veteran from one of the two stated groups.
  • Qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) as of December 1999 or the month you apply for these benefits.
  • Have other benefit income that's less than 75% of the current SSI rate.

You’re paid benefits for each month you live outside of the U.S. Dependents and survivors are not eligible for this benefit.

Application Process

To apply, download the Application for Special Benefits for World War II Veterans (PDF). Then contact a Federal Benefits Unit to get next steps.

You may also check your eligibility for other Social Security benefits.

Last Updated: 02/10/2025