Can You Collect VA Disability and Military Retirement?
Understanding the Basics
Veterans who have served in the military and have also been granted disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may wonder if they can collect both VA disability benefits and military retirement pay. The answer is yes, but there are certain conditions and limitations to be aware of.
VA Disability Benefits
The VA provides disability compensation to eligible veterans who have sustained a service-connected injury or illness that has resulted in a disability. The VA rates the severity of the disability on a scale from 0% to 100%, with higher ratings corresponding to more severe disabilities.
Military Retirement Pay
Military retirement pay, on the other hand, is a benefit provided by the military to eligible service members who have completed at least 20 years of service. The amount of retirement pay is based on the individual’s final base pay and years of service.
Can You Collect Both?
The good news is that veterans who have been granted VA disability benefits can also collect military retirement pay. However, there are some important conditions and limitations to be aware of:
- Military Disability Retirement: If you are receiving military disability retirement pay, you may also be eligible for VA disability compensation. However, if your military disability retirement pay is based on the same condition that is also considered for VA disability compensation, you may not receive concurrent payment.
- Combination Pay: If your VA disability compensation is more than your military retirement pay, you may be able to receive both benefits simultaneously. However, if your military retirement pay is greater, you may only be eligible to receive the greater of the two.
Examples of Combination Pay
Here are some examples of how combination pay works:
| Scenario | VA Disability Compensation | Military Retirement Pay | Combination Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veteran receives 50% VA disability compensation and $3,000 military retirement pay | $1,400 (50% of $2,800) | $3,000 | $1,400 + $3,000 = $4,400 |
| Veteran receives 80% VA disability compensation and $4,000 military retirement pay | $2,800 (80% of $3,500) | $4,000 | $2,800 |
Calculating Combination Pay
To calculate combination pay, the VA will use a formula to determine which benefit is greater. If the VA disability compensation is greater, you will receive both benefits. If the military retirement pay is greater, you will only receive the military retirement pay.
What You Need to Do
If you are receiving VA disability benefits and also qualify for military retirement pay, you will need to provide the VA with certain information and documentation. You should:
- Complete VA Form 21-0518: This form will help the VA calculate your combination pay.
- Provide Military Retirement Orders: You will need to provide your military retirement orders to the VA to demonstrate your eligibility for military retirement pay.
- Consult with the VA: The VA may require additional documentation or information to process your combination pay claim.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to collect both VA disability benefits and military retirement pay. However, there are certain conditions and limitations to be aware of, and you will need to provide the VA with certain information and documentation to process your claim. By understanding the basics of VA disability benefits and military retirement pay, you can navigate the process and receive the benefits you deserve.
Additional Resources
For more information on VA disability benefits and military retirement pay, you can visit the following websites:
- Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
- Military.com
- Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents
Takeaways
- Veterans who have been granted VA disability benefits can also collect military retirement pay.
- Military retirement pay is based on final base pay and years of service.
- VA disability compensation is based on the severity of the disability.
- Combination pay can be calculated using a formula.
- Veterans should provide the VA with certain information and documentation to process their combination pay claim.
