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?
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:
Rating | Impairment |
---|---|
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:
- Determine Your Eligibility: Check your military records to determine your disability rating and any limitations it may impose.
- 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.
- Undergo a Medical Evaluation: The military will conduct a medical evaluation to determine your physical and mental health.
- Choose Your MOS: Select a new MOS that takes into account your disability rating and limitations.
- Undergo Accommodation Requests: Submit accommodation requests to the military to ensure you can perform your duties.
- Undergo Rehabilitation Training: Participate in rehabilitation training to learn new skills and adapt to your disability.
- Join the Military: If you’re eligible, join the military and begin your new career.
Table: Rejoining the Military with a Disability Rating
Criteria | Schedular Disability Ratings | Extraschedular Disability Ratings |
---|---|---|
Eligibility | Generally eligible | Eligible, but requires separate evaluation |
MOS Limitations | May not perform original MOS | May not perform original MOS |
Medical Treatment | Ongoing medical treatment | Ongoing medical treatment |
Accommodations | May require accommodations | May require accommodations |
Duty Limitations | May not perform certain duties | May 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.