Can I Get VA Disability and Military Retirement?
Many active-duty military personnel and veterans wonder if they can qualify for both VA disability benefits and military retirement. It’s a common concern, especially for those who have served for an extended period and have developed service-related injuries or illnesses.
To answer this question, it’s essential to understand how VA disability benefits and military retirement work separately, before exploring the possibility of overlap.
What are VA Disability Benefits?
VA disability benefits, provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), aim to compensate veterans for chronic and permanent disabilities incurred during their military service. A disability is considered "compensable" when the veteran’s condition results from a service-connected injury, illness, or exposure (e.g., Agent Orange, radiation, or blast injuries).
Eligibility for VA Disability:
To be eligible, veterans must:
- Serve at least 90 consecutive days of active duty;
- Be discharged from active duty under honorable conditions; and
- Show an injury or illness incurred while serving.
How Much Can I Get from the VA?
The monthly compensation rates for VA disabilities vary based on the percent of disability (0 to 100%) and pay grade. Here is the current compensation rate scale for 100% Disability:
- 0%: $0
- 10%: $146.41
- 20%: $293.59
- 30%: $434.59
- 40%: $589.59
- 50%: 748.59
- 60%: *1,014.59
What is Military Retirement?
Military Retirement, provided by the Defense Department, is a regular income stream for retired servicemembers. Retirement plans vary depending on the Uniformed Services (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Space Force). The Formula for Military Retirement:
- Years of Service: Multiply your full pay grade by your number of years served. The highest rank possible in the service minus one rank (e.g., O-8; O-7 would use O-8 full basic pay).
- Pay Grade: Base your formula on your highest grade you held during your time.
- Percentage Retirement: 50% basic pay for 20 to 29 years, decreasing to 40% or 30% with further service.
How do VA Disability and Military Retirement Overlap?
Yes, it is possible for veterans to receive both VA Disability Benefits and Military Retirement income. Here are a Few Key Points to Know:
- COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment): 20% of military pension is exempt from MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income).
- Disability pension: VA disability checks are non taxable.
- Double dipping: Mischief or intent to misuse the system could invalidate benefits.
Conclusion and Next Steps
If you’re a veteran with injuries or illnesses related to military service, you can benefit from both VA disability and military retirement. Understand:
- Eligibility for VA disability claims
- Rates for VA disability compensation
- Military retirement calculations, including years of service, pay grade, and retirement percentage
- Common misconceptions and nuances in overlapping benefits (see above)
Tips:
- Keep service records and retirement documents in case of disputes or benefits audit.
- Stay on top of VA benefits notices and requests
- Consult a Veterans’ Support Organization or Tax Professional for tailored assistance.
Remember, navigating this complex system requires dedication to your service and perseverance with the VA and DOD.
