Can I rejoin the military if I have a VA disability rating at 80%?

SPC Joshua Toney — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 23:11:52 -0400

I have had a 5 year break in service and I work for the railroad that is very unstable right now. I’m considering rejoining the military but I’m curious if I would ever qualify. Any feedback would be great thank you!

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Oct 30 at 2020 11:14 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 23:14:15 -0400

You cant not join if receiving disability payments. You need to talk to a recruiter and see what they say.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2020 11:30 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 23:30:14 -0400

Before I came back in I was receiving 60% disability. You would have to see a recruiter and take him your letter with your rating from VA. Based upon your limitations he/she will be able to determine if there’s a chance for you to pass medical because you would have to do the physical. If you pass the physical, you’ll be good.

Once you receive your orders to come back in, you will have to mail a copy of your orders to the VA and ask them to suspend your VA payments (do not cancel), this way once you ETS or retire, your VA payments will restart once you send them a copy of your DD214.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2020 2:38 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 02:38:30 -0400

It is possible but not a guarantee, especially after a five year break. Also would depend on the disability. Best advice is contact a recruiter.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2020 5:46 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 05:46:27 -0400

It's less about the total rating than what your medical history is that resulted in your rating.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2020 11:59 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 11:59:07 -0400

https://themilitarywallet.com/waive-va-compensation-to-receive-military-pay/

Waive VA Compensation for Military Pay - VA Form 21-8951

You can serve in the Guard or Reserves if you have a VA disability, but you may have to waive VA Disability Compensation in order to receive military pay.

Response by SrA Daniel Hunter made Nov 2 at 2020 12:10 PM

SrA Daniel Hunter — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 12:10:52 -0500

It depends on the re-entry code on your dd-214. It will be on the bottom right of your 214 member copy-4. I tried twice with re-entry code 4F. No dice! Best to talk to a recruiter, bring your 214 with you.