Some veterans leave service with injuries or illnesses that are clearly the result of combat, but they face a frustrating problem: their military retirement pay is reduced when they start receiving VA disability compensation. This is because of a rule that prevents “double dipping” between retirement and VA benefits. Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) was created to fix that problem for veterans whose disabilities are truly combat-related.
CRSC restores some or all of the retirement pay that was taken away, on top of VA disability payments. To qualify, a veteran must show that their disability was caused by combat, combat-related training, hazardous duty, or an instrument of war. That includes not only injuries from direct combat but also conditions from training accidents, exposure to combat hazards, or injuries while performing duties that were combat-related in nature.
Many veterans don’t realize they’re eligible because the definition of “combat-related” is broader than they think. It’s not limited to being wounded by enemy fire. For example, injuries from parachute jumps, training with live ammunition, or exposure to Agent Orange can sometimes qualify.
Applying for CRSC can be complicated because each branch of service makes its own determination, and strong documentation is required. Our firm helps veterans gather the right evidence, explain the connection between their disability and combat, and fight for the restoration of the retirement pay they earned. CRSC can mean thousands of dollars each year back in the pocket of a veteran who sacrificed in service to this country.
Next Step: Unsure if your injury or illness qualifies as “combat-related”? Let us review your service records and medical history. We’ll help you determine eligibility and fight to restore the retirement pay you earned.
