How long after separation did it take you to equal your pay?

going to school, we'll see if it pays off

It took about 5 months of wheeling a dealing. It's bittersweet, but sweet in the end(pot of money more than I made in the Army)

I had a job paying me 30% more than e-6 with 6 years in 2 weeks before I finished terminal leave. That civilian pay calculator is a accurate as a political rally during election season.

3 months and tripled my pay.

PO1 Matthew Murdock
Between my pension, VA disability, and take home pay from my job, I make more than I did as a First Class.

Retired last year as an CDR (O5) with 35 years, one month and 21 days. Took a year off, getting ready to decide between two GS 13 jobs, both start at $83K so I am negotiating using OPM guidance for what is called "superior qualifications" as well as established salary history. Current 05 over 34 base pay is $105 so I will ask for a GS 13 Step that comes close. I am 54 years old and at this stage of the game, I am happy to get close, I will be happy back working around Fleet Sailors again and for two great organizations, regardless of which job I choose.

I doubled it the first year as a contractor, then lost 30G annually when I decided to switch and become a DA Civilian. I have almost come close to making that back. Also, keep in mind, as a Contractor, you are paying for a lot of things out of pocket that you don't receive as AD or as a DA Civilian.

I started working for nns. They matched my pay.

I guess I got lucky too it took me one year to surpass what I made in the military.

My pay immediately double when I started my 1st job after leaving the service and got 6 times higher than my highest year on active duty.