Home » Blog » Can You rejoin the military with a disability rating?

Can You rejoin the military with a disability rating?

Can You Rejoin the Military with a Disability Rating?

The answer to this question is yes, but with some conditions. The United States military allows service members with disability ratings to rejoin the military, but it’s a complex process that depends on several factors. In this article, we’ll explore the requirements, limitations, and steps involved in rejoining the military with a disability rating.

What is a Disability Rating?

Bulk Ammo for Sale at Lucky Gunner

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand what a disability rating is. A disability rating is a percentage assigned by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to determine the level of impairment caused by a service-connected condition. The rating ranges from 0% to 100%, with 0% indicating no impairment and 100% indicating complete impairment.

Types of Disability Ratings

There are two main types of disability ratings: schedular and extraschedular. A schedular rating is based on a formula that considers the extent of the impairment, while an extraschedular rating is assigned when the impairment is so severe that it can’t be evaluated using the formula.

Schedular Disability Ratings

For schedular disability ratings, the VA uses the following table to determine the percentage:

RatingImpairment
0%No impairment
10%Slight impairment
20%Moderate impairment
30%Moderate to marked impairment
40%Marked impairment
50%Considerable impairment
60%Severe impairment
70%Severe to extremely severe impairment
80%Extremely severe impairment
90%Profound impairment
100%Complete impairment

Rejoining the Military with a Disability Rating

So, can you rejoin the military with a disability rating? The answer is yes, but with some conditions. The military has a complex process for accepting service members with disability ratings, and it depends on several factors, including:

  • The type and severity of the disability
  • The military branch and type of duty you’re seeking
  • Your physical and mental health
  • The need for accommodations or medical treatment

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible to rejoin the military with a disability rating, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Schedular Disability Ratings: If you have a schedular disability rating, you’re generally eligible to rejoin the military as long as you’re physically and mentally capable of performing the duties of your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
  • Extraschedular Disability Ratings: If you have an extraschedular disability rating, you may be eligible to rejoin the military, but you’ll need to undergo a separate evaluation to determine your eligibility.

Limitations

There are several limitations to consider when rejoining the military with a disability rating:

  • MOS Limitations: You may not be able to perform your original MOS due to the severity of your disability.
  • Medical Treatment: You may need ongoing medical treatment for your disability, which can impact your ability to perform your duties.
  • Accommodations: You may require accommodations to perform your duties, such as wheelchair accessibility or modifications to your work environment.
  • Duty Limitations: You may not be able to perform certain duties or assignments due to the severity of your disability.

Steps to Rejoin the Military with a Disability Rating

If you’re considering rejoining the military with a disability rating, follow these steps:

  1. Determine Your Eligibility: Check your military records to determine your disability rating and any limitations it may impose.
  2. Consult with a VA Representative: Speak with a VA representative to understand the impact of your disability rating on your ability to rejoin the military.
  3. Undergo a Medical Evaluation: The military will conduct a medical evaluation to determine your physical and mental health.
  4. Choose Your MOS: Select a new MOS that takes into account your disability rating and limitations.
  5. Undergo Accommodation Requests: Submit accommodation requests to the military to ensure you can perform your duties.
  6. Undergo Rehabilitation Training: Participate in rehabilitation training to learn new skills and adapt to your disability.
  7. Join the Military: If you’re eligible, join the military and begin your new career.

Table: Rejoining the Military with a Disability Rating

CriteriaSchedular Disability RatingsExtraschedular Disability Ratings
EligibilityGenerally eligibleEligible, but requires separate evaluation
MOS LimitationsMay not perform original MOSMay not perform original MOS
Medical TreatmentOngoing medical treatmentOngoing medical treatment
AccommodationsMay require accommodationsMay require accommodations
Duty LimitationsMay not perform certain dutiesMay not perform certain duties

Conclusion

Rejoining the military with a disability rating is possible, but it’s a complex process that depends on several factors. The military has specific requirements and limitations for service members with disability ratings, and it’s essential to understand these factors before attempting to rejoin. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can determine your eligibility and navigate the process successfully.

Enhance Your Knowledge with Curated Videos on Guns and Accessories


Leave a Comment