What are the pros and cons of taking the medical separation pay?

2024-01-06T12:34:35-05:00

What are the pros and cons of taking the medical separation pay? I’m hearing different opinions on this matter

Response by COL Randall C. made Jan 6 at 2024 1:17 PM

2024-01-06T13:17:13-05:00

PROs and CONs? You make it sound like you have a choice and are weighing a decision (i.e., "What are the pros and cons so I can decide if I will accept it or not).

Generally, Disability Severance Pay (DSP) is given if you are found unfit for duty, are not retirement eligible and the military has rated the disabilities at less that 30%. There aren't any "PROs" or "CONs" about it unless you view getting a monetary amount a 'PRO' and being separated from the military a 'CON'.

However, if you want the facts (as opposed to opinions) of DSP, then you can read up on it at MyArmyBenefits* site (has additional links for amplifying information as well).

Is there some specific aspect of DSP that you are wondering about?
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* https://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil/Benefit-Library/Federal-Benefits/DoD-Disability-Severance-Pay-?serv=122

DoD Disability Severance Pay

The Secretary of the Army may separate, versus retire, a Soldier who is found physically unfit to perform their duties due to a disability.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Jan 8 at 2024 10:44 AM

2024-01-08T10:44:56-05:00

So I am assuming you are referring to a med board where the individual gets under 30% but is deemed they need to be medically separated. If it is a different situation please clarify.

I would recommend fighting the findings and appeal to the medical board. If it is bad enough to warrant medical separation it would be worth your time and effort to fight for 30% or higher which would mean medical retirement. The separation money isn't free money and is more like an advance to get you back on your feet.