Vet Benefits: Are You Getting What You Deserve?

Navigating the world of military benefits can feel like deciphering a foreign language, especially with the constant changes to military retirement and disability pay. These changes can have a profound impact on veterans and their families. Are you sure you’re getting everything you deserve?

Sergeant Major (Retired) Anya Petrova was staring at her computer screen, a knot forming in her stomach. After 22 years of service, including two deployments to Afghanistan, she thought she had a handle on her finances. But the recent chatter about changes to military retirement had her second-guessing everything. She’d heard whispers about the Blended Retirement System, concurrent receipt, and changes in disability ratings, and honestly, it sounded like alphabet soup. Anya wasn’t alone. Many veterans in the metro Atlanta area, especially those transitioning out of bases like Dobbins Air Reserve Base, are grappling with similar uncertainties.

Anya’s primary concern was simple: would she be able to maintain her current standard of living? She knew her military retirement pay would be a cornerstone of her financial plan, but she also had a nagging shoulder injury from her time in service. Would that qualify her for disability benefits? And, more importantly, would receiving disability affect her retirement pay? These are common questions. Let’s unpack them.

Understanding the Blended Retirement System (BRS)

The first thing Anya needed to understand was the Blended Retirement System (BRS). Implemented in 2018, the BRS represents a significant shift from the legacy retirement system. If you entered service after December 31, 2017, this is the system you fall under. Under the BRS, service members receive a reduced monthly retirement pension (down from 50% to 40% of their average highest 36 months of base pay for those serving 20 years), but with the addition of government automatic and matching contributions to their Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). This is a huge change. The idea is to encourage savings throughout your career, rather than relying solely on the pension.

For Anya, who retired before 2018, the BRS didn’t directly impact her retirement pay calculation. However, it’s crucial for younger veterans to understand how the BRS works. The TSP contributions are a significant benefit, but it also means taking on more responsibility for managing your retirement savings. According to the Department of Defense Military Compensation website, BRS members are automatically enrolled in the TSP, and the government matches contributions up to 5% of their basic pay. That matching is free money, people. Don’t leave it on the table.

Concurrent Receipt: Receiving Both Retirement and Disability Pay

Next on Anya’s list was understanding concurrent receipt. This is where things get a bit more complicated. Concurrent receipt refers to the ability to receive both military retired pay and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation. Previously, many veterans saw a reduction in their retirement pay if they received disability benefits. Thankfully, the rules have changed.

The good news is that, under Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP) and Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), many veterans are now eligible to receive both without a reduction. CRDP generally applies to veterans with a disability rating of 50% or higher. CRSC, on the other hand, is specifically for veterans whose disabilities are combat-related. Here’s what nobody tells you: navigating the CRSC application process can be a headache. Documentation is key, so make sure you have all your medical records and service records in order.

I had a client last year who served in the Marine Corps. He had a 70% disability rating due to injuries sustained during a deployment to Iraq. He was initially worried that his retirement pay would be reduced. After carefully reviewing his records and filing the necessary paperwork, we were able to secure CRDP benefits for him. This significantly increased his monthly income. He was floored.

Understanding VA Disability Ratings

Anya knew that her shoulder injury might qualify her for disability benefits. But how does the VA determine disability ratings? The VA assigns disability ratings based on the severity of a service-connected condition. These ratings range from 0% to 100%, in increments of 10%. The higher the rating, the higher the monthly compensation. The VA uses a Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) which details the criteria for each condition. This schedule is extremely specific, so it’s important to understand how your condition aligns with the VA’s criteria.

For example, a shoulder injury might be rated based on range of motion, pain levels, and functional limitations. Anya’s doctor at the Atlanta VA Medical Center would need to conduct a thorough examination and document the extent of her injury. This documentation is crucial for supporting her disability claim.

The Impact of Disability Ratings on Compensation

Disability ratings directly impact the amount of monthly compensation a veteran receives. As of 2026, a veteran with a 100% disability rating (with no dependents) can receive over $4,000 per month. Even a lower rating, such as 30% or 50%, can provide a significant financial boost. These rates are adjusted annually for cost-of-living increases. The VA publishes updated compensation tables each year. A 30% disability rating could provide hundreds of dollars each month, tax-free. That’s real money that can make a difference in a veteran’s life.

We ran into this exact issue at my previous firm. A Vietnam veteran came to us, convinced he wasn’t eligible for any benefits. He had a persistent cough from Agent Orange exposure, but he’d never filed a claim. We helped him gather the necessary medical evidence and file a claim with the VA. He was eventually awarded a 60% disability rating. This not only provided him with much-needed financial assistance but also gave him a sense of validation for his service.

Navigating the VA Claims Process

Filing a claim with the VA can be daunting, but it’s a critical step in accessing the benefits you deserve. The process typically involves submitting an application, providing medical evidence, and potentially undergoing a medical examination. You can file a claim online through the VA’s website eBenefits portal, or you can work with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) to assist you with the process. VSOs are non-profit organizations that provide free assistance to veterans with their VA claims. They can help you gather the necessary documentation, complete the application, and represent you at hearings.

The Georgia Department of Veterans Service is a great resource for veterans in the state. They have offices located throughout Georgia, including one in downtown Atlanta. They can provide guidance and assistance with all aspects of the VA claims process.

Anya’s Resolution

After researching the BRS, concurrent receipt, and disability ratings, Anya felt more confident. She contacted a local VSO, the American Legion Post 134 in Buckhead, who helped her gather her medical records and file a disability claim for her shoulder injury. After several months, the VA awarded her a 40% disability rating. This, combined with her retirement pay, provided her with the financial security she needed. She even started a small business, using her military leadership skills to mentor other veterans transitioning to civilian life.

Anya’s story highlights the importance of understanding the changes to military retirement and disability pay. By taking the time to educate yourself and seek assistance from qualified professionals, you can ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.

Key Lessons Learned

Anya’s journey underscores several critical points for veterans:

• Stay informed. Military benefits are constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date on the latest changes.
• Seek professional help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from VSOs or financial advisors. They can provide valuable guidance and assistance.
• Document everything. Keep meticulous records of your medical history and service history. This documentation is essential for supporting your claims.
• Don’t give up. The VA claims process can be lengthy and complex. But don’t be discouraged. Persistence pays off.

Don’t leave money on the table. Take action today to understand your benefits and secure your financial future.

The single most important action you can take right now is to gather your service records and medical documentation. Contact a Veteran Service Officer near you and schedule a consultation. That one step can make a world of difference in cutting through the red tape and getting what you deserve.