As an active-duty service member, you receive retired pay and valuable benefits. The same applies when you retire. Maximizing the options available to you is essential to making the most out of your retirement.
Be sure to review the following:
- Retired Pay: See if you are eligible for CRSC (Combat-Related Special Compensation). Eligible retired Soldiers will receive CRDP (Concurrent Retirement Disability Pay) automatically. You cannot receive both CRSC and CRDP concurrently but can change your decision during an annual open season, find out more in the DFAS CRDP/CRSC Open Season FAQs. Also retired military members receive an annual cost of living adjustment (COLA), which varies from year to year. Keep up with all news regarding Retired pay, including COLA, SBP and more through the Defense Financing and Accounting Service (DFAS).
- Health Insurance: Enroll yourself and eligible family members in TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Select or other applicable TRICARE plans.
- Use the TRICARE Plan Finder to find the the plan that best meets the needs of you and your family.
- Dental, Vision, and/or Long Term Care Insurance: Enroll through the FEDVIP benefits program
- Life Insurance: Your Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance remains in effect until 120 days after separation. Then you must convert to Veterans' Group Life Insurance.
- Post 9-11 GI Bill/Montgomery GI Bill/Education: Your GI Bill may be good for 10 years, 15 years or indefinitely. It can also be transferred to eligible Family Members while you are still on Active Duty.
- Home Loans: You may be eligible for a VA Home Loan
- Survivor Benefit Plan: Ensure your family members are provided for after your death; visit our Survivor Benefit Plan page here on the SFL website for detailed information.
- Military Identification Cards: You and eligible family members can enjoy benefits such as the commissary, Exchange, theater privileges, and medical care.
