Posted on Nov 4, 2021
SPC Petroleum Supply Specialist
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I’m going through MEB right now, due to PTSD, MDD & Narcolepsy. I understand you can’t receive both VA & Severance pay at the same time and that Severance pay must be repaid in full before receiving VA benefits. My question is, can I just opt out of even getting Severance pay to begin with and just receive VA from the get-go? From my understanding 30% DOD is considered medical retirement. Anything under is your base pay x2 for the amount of years in service in one lump-some. My friend got 80% VA and 20% DOD, he said he’s getting $20k upfront but has to repay it by taking it out of his VA disability for x amount of years. Just wanted to verify and see if I can just opt out of receiving severance or not?
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Responses: 5
SSgt Christophe Murphy
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You are putting the cart before the horse. When your findings come back discuss everything with your PEBLO and make a decision then. You can ask them questions now if you want to but this is a big hypothetical
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SFC Retention Operations Nco
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You don't know what your IDES rating will be so it's a little early to be planning on this. But if you do receive the medical separation, take the money. There is zero benefit to you not accepting the payment. Think of it as an upfront payment on your VA money, especially since it may be months before you receive your VA money if you did refuse to take the Separation pay.
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SPC Petroleum Supply Specialist
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You’re right I honestly didn’t think of it that way. Thank you for your time
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SSG Intelligence Analyst
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This would be a question for the PEBLO. According to DFAS: You must meet all of the following requirements to be eligible:

be found unfit for duty,
have less than 20 years of service,
and have a disability rating of less than 30%.

So if you are at 30%, I’m not sure if you qualify for severance pay. Once again, talk to your case manager.
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SPC Petroleum Supply Specialist
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Roger, thank you for your time.
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