The term "Austrian SS" is often used to describe that portion of the SS membership from Austria, but it was never a recognized branch of the SS. In contrast to SS members from other countries, who were grouped into either the Germanic-SS or the Foreign Legions of the Waffen-SS, Austrian SS members were regular SS personnel.

Ordinarily, the Austrian social security system ties eligibility to current or former legal employment. In the case of tax-financed benefits, legal residence in Austria is also necessary. These include child benefits, unemployment, and long-term care. Fortunately, nationality is less important once a person has secured gainful employment.