Retirement Security for American Hostages Act of 2025

Deemed Social Security wages for hostages

If enacted, this bill would treat each month you were held hostage abroad as if you earned 1/12 of the national average wage index for the year two years before that month. That deemed wage would be used to decide whether you or your survivors qualify for monthly Social Security benefits and to compute benefit amounts or any lump-sum death payment. Months that end after you reach Social Security retirement age would not count. The rule also would not be used if a larger benefit would result without it. You or someone entitled to benefits on your record must apply and provide federal agency documentation of the detention or hostage period. The Social Security Administration would write implementing rules within 1 year, and the change would take effect 24 months after enactment.