Possible medically retired!

[jefmil50]

I have a cousin who is going to be medically separated from the service. I told him he needs to make sure he gets at last a 30 percent rating so he will then be considered medically retired. He asked if he could start the paperwork now before he gets out for the VA, i Said really I do not know so that would be my question for someone here to answer. It has been a long time since I went through this process and a lot of battles along the way I can not recall all the steps so if someone can help me in any way I would appreciate it. I can help him once he gets to the VA part, it is getting to that point I do not remember fully, thanks!

[brokensoldier244th]

The processing out usually includes one or more meetings with VA reps to start paperwork. It's different now than it was 10 or more years ago.

[jefmil50]

Can he start this with VA before being discharged?

[brokensoldier244th]

It should be part of his out processing

[bnthornton]

I'm medically retired from the Marine Corps. A VA rating of 30% DOES NOT necessarily mean you get a medically retired status. It must be a DoD rating of 30% or more by the MEB/PEB in order to be put on the TDRL and then medically retired if the percentage does not lessen wishing 6 months following removal from active duty or straight to the PDRL depending on the issue. That's how military medical retirement works. The VA has nothing to do with it. They are two completely separate ponies, just so you know.

Edited January 1, 2016 by bnthornton

[jefmil50]

That is how I explained this to him and appeal anything less than 30% from the military. They wanted to give me 20% from the Marine Corps and I appealed that decision and won the 30% instead.