Military Service Debt Payment and Early Retirement

Every individual employed under social security coverage may retire if specific conditions are met. These conditions are outlined under laws numbered 5510 and 5434. According to these laws, the requirements for retirement are summarized as the insured period, the number of premium days, and age. For those who have met the age and insured period but lack sufficient paid premium days, there is an option to become eligible for retirement by making retroactive debt payments under certain circumstances. Different conditions apply to each type of debt payment, and military service debt payment is one of these types.

What is Military Service Debt Payment?

Military Service Debt Payment is an option for insured individuals, male or female, who served in the military, allowing them to increase their total number of premium days by paying premiums for the time spent in service under specific conditions. Through premium debt payments, individuals may qualify for early retirement.

Who Can Apply for Military Service Debt Payment?

Military service debt payment is a type of debt payment available for individuals who have served in the armed forces. It is available to all who served, regardless of their status under the social security system, including those classified as 4/a (SSK), 4/b (Bağ-Kur), or 4/c (Pension Fund).

While this is commonly known as a debt payment option for men, women who have been conscripted into military service can also apply on a voluntary basis.

What Duration Can Be Covered by Military Service Debt Payment?

Under military service debt payment, periods that can be covered include the time served as a private or non-commissioned officer, or the time spent in reserve officer or reserve NCO schools. These periods are generally defined as compulsory military service or voluntary military service.

There is no upper limit on the period that can be covered. The period eligible for debt payment is the actual duration of time served in the military.

What Does Military Service Debt Payment Offer?

The conditions for retirement include the insured period, the number of premium days, and age. Military service debt payment increases the individual’s number of premium payment days. During military service, an individual is separated from employment, leading to a potential shortfall in premium days. Even if the other retirement requirements are met, a lack of premium days may prevent retirement. Military service debt payment offers each individual the chance to complete these missing premium days for the period spent outside the workforce due to military service. However, it does not reduce the retirement age.

How to Apply for Military Service Debt Payment?

To apply for military service debt payment, the individual can submit an application to the Provincial Directorate of SGK (Social Security Institution) where they reside. Applications can be made physically or by post, with registered mail being recommended for postal applications.

An application for military service debt payment can also be submitted through the e-Government portal.

Documents Required for Military Service Debt Payment

There is no need for a document from the employer for military service debt payment. An application can be made with only a photocopy of an identity card and the military service debt payment form. Applications can also be made through the e-Government portal.

Military Service Debt Payment Amounts for 2024

For 2024, the daily debt payment amount for military service debt payment is calculated as 32% of the specified earnings amount. If calculated based on the minimum wage, the minimum daily debt payment is 666.75 TL, while the maximum daily debt payment is 5,000.63 TL. Payments are calculated based on these amounts.

Payment Period for Military Service Debt Payment

The amount calculated by SGK for military service debt payment must be paid within one month. Otherwise, the debt payment request will be canceled. Payments can be made through banks or the PTT.

If canceled, reapplication is possible. However, if the premium rate or minimum wage has changed, the total debt amount may change due to recalculation.