Frequently Asked Questions – Medical Retirement & VA Disability

This page answers the most common questions about military medical separation or retirement, VA disability ratings, and how both systems work together—and separately.

Military Medical Retirement

What qualifies someone for medical retirement?

You must be found unfit for continued service by the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) and either (1) receive a disability rating of ≥30% or (2) have 20+ qualifying years of military service.

Does the VA rating determine whether I get medically retired?

No. The PEB determines fitness and DoD rating. The VA rating only affects post-service compensation and benefits.

What if I'm in the Reserves or Guard?

Your condition must have occurred or been aggravated while on qualifying active duty orders (e.g., Title 10, ADOS, deployment). Civilian or inactive status injuries do not qualify for DoD medical retirement.

Can I be separated without retirement?

Yes. If your PEB rating is below 30% and you don’t have 20 years of service, you may be medically separated with severance pay.

Can I appeal the MEB or PEB findings?

Yes. You can request a Formal PEB with legal counsel and later appeal to your service’s Board for Correction of Military Records if needed.

VA Disability Compensation

What is VA disability compensation?

It’s a tax-free monthly payment given to veterans with service-connected conditions. Compensation is based on severity and impact on daily life, not on fitness for military service.

What qualifies as “service-connected”?

The VA requires a diagnosed condition, an in-service event or aggravation, and a medical link (nexus) between them.

Can I get VA disability if I’m still serving?

Yes. You can file a **pre-discharge claim** through the IDES system or with the VA directly if you’re within 180 days of separation.

How is my rating percentage determined?

The VA uses the **VASRD** (Schedule for Rating Disabilities) to assign ratings based on documented symptoms and medical evidence.

Can I receive both military retirement and VA compensation?

Yes, but offset rules apply unless you qualify for **Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP)** or **Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC)**.

What is the difference between VA disability and DoD retirement?

VA disability is compensation for the loss of civilian earning capacity. DoD medical retirement is based on your inability to continue military service. The systems are related, but managed separately.

Combined Concerns

How do I know which process I’m in—IDES or LDES?

If your case is being processed jointly by DoD and the VA and you’re getting a VA C&P exam while still in service, you are likely in **IDES**. If only your command or service is evaluating you, it may be **LDES**.

Can I apply for VA compensation after being found fit by the PEB?

Yes. The VA evaluates the existence and severity of a condition, not whether you are “fit” for military service.

How long does the full process take?

IDES cases average 4–6 months. VA disability claims filed separately may take 3–5 months depending on complexity, backlog, and evidence.