SGK service debt applications urged before year-end price hikes

Individuals seeking to complete missing premium days through the Social Security Institution (SGK) are advised to submit applications for service debt by December 31 to avoid upcoming cost increases. Because debt payments for military service, maternity, and overseas service are tied to the gross minimum wage, the anticipated minimum wage hike for the new year will directly raise these costs.

Under 2026 regulations, the premium rate for most service debts, excluding maternity debt, has increased from 32 percent to 45 percent of the daily earnings. For example, an individual borrowing 18 months (540 days) of military service currently pays 267,543 TL. If a 30 percent minimum wage increase occurs, that same period would cost approximately 347,806 TL, representing an increase of roughly 80,000 TL.

Maternity debt allows women to claim up to two years of service per child for up to three children. Currently, the daily premium for maternity debt is 352.32 TL. Completing a two-year (720 days) maternity debt currently costs 253,670 TL, but costs are expected to rise significantly following the next minimum wage adjustment.