How Long Do You Get Paid After Leaving the Military?
Serving in the military is a significant career that requires dedication, discipline, and sacrifice. Many soldiers, sailors, airmen, and coastguardsmen dedicate their younger years to serving their country, only to face an uncertain financial future after separating from military service. One common concern among military personnel is when do you start getting paid after leaving the military?
Direct Answer
In general, a transitioning service member can receive separation pay, also known as severance pay, during their transition period from the military to civilian life. The length of payment varies depending on your individual circumstances, branch of service, and type of discharge. Here are the general guidelines:
• Regular Discharge: Under honorable conditions, with a minimum of 90 days of active service and no disability:
› Separation pay for a minimum of 38,000 hours of earned and credited active duty or, in some cases, Active Guard Reserve (AGR) and active Guard reserve status service
• Separation or Honorable Discharge Under 90 Days of Service: No separation pay available
• Hardship Discharge: ( Medical or physical disability)
› Entitlement to an enhanced separation pay
› The amount varies between 25% to 40% of your gross income, with a cap on $1,650 weekly gross income
Calculating Separation Pay
The Military Control Automation System (MILS) is used to determine separation pay. Your basic pay, bonuses, and allowances are considered for calculation purposes only, excluding other forms of military compensation, such as Special Duty Pay, Aviation/Flight Pay, Hazard Pay, or Enlisted Forward Observer (EFO) Pay.
Milestones to Consider:
• Date of Departure (DDT): The date the individual departs the service is critical for calculating separation pay. It’s typically based on the day you depart, not the hour of separation.
• Leave Credits: Unfetched leave (compensatory time off taken or unused) is applied during the transition period and doesn’t impact separation pay calculation.
Other Types of Payments:
Beyond separation pay, there are additional sources of income and potential payments:
• Educational Assistance: Available to service members pursuing civilian higher education
• Montgomery GI Bill: Can be used for pursuing continuing education or vocational training
• Veterans Benefits: Healthcare, burial assistance, and other veteran support programs
After Service Payments
While active military duty, you typically have pay protection benefits in place, meaning:
• Pay Raise or Bonus: You still receive any accrued salary increase or bonus from previous months during your active-duty service
Ticking the Box: Knowing When You’re Done Getting Paid
Once you’re deemed "released from service" by your branch or leave the military, any pay-related entitlements terminate.
• Final Active Federal Military Service (FFMAF): Indicates completion of your military obligations.
• Final Basic Pay is paid upon certification of release from duty by the Defense Human Resources Activity (DHRA)
Key Considerations
To ensure smooth sailing during your transition to civilian life, consider these takeaways:
• Prepare Financially: Have at least 1 year of living expenses and savings in place, along with a robust job search plan
• Notify the VA: Provide official documentation of service and discharge for easy Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) access to healthcare, education, and vocational rehabilitation
• Know Your Options: Weigh Transition Assistance Programs (TAP) offered by the military, covering services such as resume review and career guidance
While financial security can be unpredictable for former military personnel, a deeper understanding of military payments, milestones, and education opportunities can help guide a smoother transition. Always double-check your specific case, consult with your financial adviser, or reach out to relevant military and Veterans’ Affairs offices for the latest information.
