As an Army National Guard soldier with VA disability

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 08:51:08 -0400

As an Army National Guard soldier who just recently became an NCO and just recently received a VA disability rating of 50% for PTSD. Should I stay in the army for retirement points or try and get out? I have about eight more years left.I guess I just want to know what others would do actually.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2014 9:53 AM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 09:53:32 -0400

I would stay in and continue to earn your retirement. As a result, you will earn your retirement plus your disability. They use to subtract your disability from your military retirement, but I am pretty sure they changed that now.

The other thing to seriously consider is your MOS, and how the PTSD will affect your ability to do your job. If you are remaining in an MOS with a high ops tempo where you could potentially deploy again, either change your MOS or think about separation.

Also, go to the VA and talk with a counselor about your benefits such as voc-rehab.
Lastly, make a list of pros and cons for each option. What would you do for income after separation, medical insurance (given the VA will cover anything military related) .

Response by PV2 Andrew Schauf- Anderson made May 24 at 2017 12:00 PM

PV2 Andrew Schauf- Anderson — Wed, 24 May 2017 12:00:56 -0400

Stay in. It will payoff in the end!