When the military needs to trim its personnel ranks, they can offer service members separation pay. When voluntary, this one-time payment deal to end their service might seem like a good deal at the outset, but veterans are finding that if they apply for VA benefits, they will be forced to pay that money back to the government.
For service members who were not aware of the payback stipulation, which is written into federal law, this could be a serious problem. Money that was already spent on things like a home, vehicle, or business venture face the loss of the benefits they are entitled to if they cannot pay back the amount of the separation pay. Many service members feel cheated when they find out about this part of the law too late.
A similar issue is arising with involuntary separations. Those who are forced to leave the military involuntarily after being passed over for a promotion are experiencing the injustice of having to wait years to receive their much-needed VA benefits until after their separation pay is returned to the government. Money that was originally understood as a way for service members to transition back to civilian life is actually nothing more than a barrier to care benefits for conditions like PTSD, hearing or vision loss, and other disabilities.
This misunderstanding is not a unique problem. A slew of veterans are in need of financial help after having to make the choice between their voluntary or involuntary separation pay and the VA benefits they are entitled to. Many service members are struggling to keep their homes and pay their costs of living in an effort to rid themselves of this unexpected and unwelcome debt.
Read more about this story in an article by Military Times.
You Have Fought for Your Country – Now Let Us Fight for You!
Our veterans have worked hard to protect this country and should not have to make the choice between their homes or their benefits. They should also not be penalized for the Department of Defense’s lack of adequate communication about how separation from the military will affect their future ability to receive benefits.
If you are having difficulty obtaining your hard-earned benefits from the VA, George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers stands ready to fight for you. Headed by George Sink, a disabled Marine veteran himself, our firm has helped countless individuals with VA claims. We know the struggles you are facing – that is why we are dedicated to helping you secure the disability benefits you deserve.
To begin discussing your rights, eligibility, and the details of your current situation, please call a veterans disability attorney from our firm for a FREE consultation.