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M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, Chapter 4, Section B – Recoupment of Separation Benefits

Overview

In This Section
This section contains the following topics:
Topic
Topic Name
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

1.  General Information About Separation Benefits

Introduction
This topic contains general information about separation benefits, including

Change Date
January 2, 2019

III.v.4.B.1.a. Prohibition Against the Duplication of Benefits
38 CFR 3.700 prohibits the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from paying compensation to a Veteran who also received certain separation benefits from the
  • Department of Defense (DoD), or
  • Department of Homeland Security (if the Veteran served in the Coast Guard).

These separation benefits include:

  • readjustment pay under former 10 U.S.C. 687 and 3814a
  • non-disability severance pay under former 10 U.S.C. 359, 360, 859, and 860
  • separation pay under 10 U.S.C. 1174
  • reservists’ involuntary separation pay (RISP)
  • special separation benefit (SSB) under 10 U.S.C. 1174a
  • voluntary separation pay (VSP) under 10 U.S.C. 1175a, and
  • disability severance pay under 10 U.S.C. 1212.
References:  For more information about

III.v.4.B.1.b.  Determining Whether a Veteran Received Separation Benefits
A review of one or more of the following will typically reveal whether or not a Veteran received separation benefits:
  • application for VA compensation or pension
  • DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty
  • documentation in the Veteran’s claims folder, such as
    • responses to requests for information/records submitted through
      • the Personnel Information Exchange System (PIES) or
      • AskDFAS (Defense Finance and Accounting Service), and/or
    • letters from
      • the Coast Guard (if the Veteran served in the Coast Guard)
      • DFAS Retired and Annuity, and/or
      • DFAS Military Pay Operations
  • the MISCELLANEOUS INFO tab on the VETERANS IDENTIFICATION screen in the Beneficiary Identification and Records Locator Subsystem
  • the DISCHARGE PAY tab on the MILITARY PAYMENT INFORMATION screen in the
    • Veterans Service Network (VETSNET) Awards, or
    • Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS) – Awards (VBMS-A), and/or
  • the MILITARY PAYMENTS tab on the MILITARY INFORMATION screen in Share.
Notes:
  • The presence of an amount in the SEPARATION PAY field on the MILITARY PAYMENTS tab in Share is only an indicator the Veteran received some type of separation benefit.  It is not a reliable indicator of whether this benefit is the same “separation pay” described in 10 U.S.C. 1174.
  • Use the spreadsheet titled Separation Program Designator (SPD) Codes to determine whether – based on the SPD code that appears in Block 26 of the Veteran’s DD Form 214 – the Veteran was eligible for any of the separation benefits named on the spreadsheet.  If eligibility did notexist, it is safe to conclude the Veteran was not awarded any of them.
  • If it is unclear whether or not a Veteran received separation benefits, follow the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.b.
 Reference:  For guidance in accessing information in VA’s systems of record, see the

III.v.4.B.1.c.  How VA Updates Its Systems of Record With a Veteran’s Service Information
The table below describes how VA updates its systems of record with service information from a Veteran’s DD Form 214, to include the amount and type of separation benefit the Veteran received, if any.
Stage
Description
1
When a service department discharges a service member from active duty, it sends a copy of his/her DD Form 214 to the Austin Data Processing Center (DPC).
2
The DPC creates a Veterans Assistance Discharge System (VADS) record containing service information it pulls from the DD Form 214.
3
A computer interface with VADS updates the systems referenced inM21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.1.b with relevant service information for each discharged Veteran.
Exception:  If a Veteran received a type of separation benefit that VA is notresponsible for recouping, the Austin DPC does not enter the amount of this benefit into the VADS record.
Reference:  For more information about VADS, see the Share User’s Guide.

III.v.4.B.1.d.Determining Whether VA Has Already Recouped Separation Benefits a Veteran Received
Before establishing a withholding to recoup a Veteran’s separation benefit, check the corporate record (by clicking on the MILITARY button in Share and selecting the MILITARY PAYMENTS tab) to ensure VA has not already completed recoupment.
If the corporate record shows recoupment is complete, claims processors must ensure the amount of benefits VA recouped matches the amount of the separation benefit the Veteran received.  If they do not match, treat the separation benefit currently at issue as unrecouped.
Exception:  If VA completed its recoupment of a Veteran’s separation benefit in the Benefits Delivery Network (BDN) (prior to conversion to VETSNET), such recoupment will not be evident in Share.
If a Veteran had a master record in BDN, claims processors may view data from the record by clicking on the PRECONVSN MASTER RCD button in Share.  Claims processors may not rely on data displayed on the STATUS (M11) screen, however, to determine whether VA finished recouping a Veteran’s separation benefit.  Instead, claims processors must review entries in the Offset – Recoupment section of BDN award prints in the claims folder to make this determination.
Notes:
  • If VA began recoupment of a Veteran’s separation benefit in BDN andcontinued recoupment after conversion to VETSNET, the balance of the separation benefit that was pending recoupment at the time of conversionwill appear in the ORIGINAL BALANCE field on the
    • SEPARATION PAY tab, or
    • DISABILITY PAY tab (if the separation benefit is disability severance pay).
  • The SEPARATION PAY tab and DISABILITY PAY tab are located on the AWARD ADJUSTMENTS screen in VBMS-A.

Important:  If a determination cannot be made as to whether VA has recouped a separation benefit, ask the local finance activity to assist in making the determination by performing a financial audit.

References:  For more information about using

III.v.4.B.1.e.  Readjustment Pay Under Former 10 U.S.C. 3814a
Readjustment pay under former 10 U.S.C. 3814a was paid to regular officers below the rank of major who were discharged during a reduction in force.  The authority for making these payments expired at the end of 1977.
If a Veteran received readjustment pay under former 10 U.S.C. 3814a, the date of entitlement to VA compensation dictates whether recoupment is required.
References:  For information about

III.v.4.B.1.f.  Readjustment Pay Under Former 10 U.S.C. 687
Readjustment pay under former 10 U.S.C. 687 was paid to reserve officers who were involuntarily released after completing at least five years of active service but did not qualify for retirement.  The authority for making these payments was repealed effective September 15, 1981.
If a Veteran was involuntarily released from active duty as a Reservist on or after July 9, 1956, and had completed continuous active duty of at least five but not more than 18 years, carefully review the records described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.1.b to determine whether the Veteran elected
  • VA compensation or lump sum readjustment pay, or
  • deferred action on lump sum readjustment pay.
If the evidence of record does not contain the information required to make a determination, follow the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.b.
Reference:  For information about the effect of PL 87-509 on readjustment pay under former 10 U.S.C. 687, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.1.g.

III.v.4.B.1.g.  Effect of PL 87-509 on Readjustment Pay
PL 87-509, enacted June 28, 1962, liberalized the former law that required Veterans to make a one-time, irrevocable election between VA compensation and readjustment pay.  The prior election no longer precludes payment of compensation if a Veteran is otherwise eligible.
On or after June 28, 1962, if
  • a claims folder is encountered in which the Veteran’s claim for compensation was previously barred under the former law, compensation may now be awarded, subject to
    • recoupment of the readjustment pay, and
    • the effective dates for liberalizing legislation, as provided in 38 CFR 3.114(a), and
  • potential eligibility for compensation exists based on the former claim, but there is insufficient evidence to make a decision,

III.v.4.B.1.h.  Non-Disability Severance Pay
DoD awarded non-disability severance pay to certain individuals, under former 10 U.S.C 359, 360, 859, and 860, who involuntarily separated from service, usually due to their failure to meet standards of performance.  This benefit is subject to recoupment unless the Veteran established entitlement to VA compensation beforeSeptember 15, 1981.
Note:  PL 96-513 repealed former 10 U.S.C. 359, 360, 859, and 860, effective September 15, 1981.
Reference:  For more information on the recoupment of non-disability severance pay, see

III.v.4.B.1.i.  Separation Pay Under 10 U.S.C. 1174
Separation pay under 10 U.S.C. 1174
  • replaced readjustment pay, effective September 15, 1981
  • is paid to regular and reserve officers who
    • involuntarily separate from service after completing at least five years of active duty, but
    • do not qualify for retirement, and
  • is also paid to regular enlisted members under PL 101-510, Section 501(enacted November 5, 1990), who
    • involuntarily separate from service after completing six years of active duty, and
    • do not qualify for retirement.
Reference:  For information on determining the amount of separation pay to recoup, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.d.

III.v.4.B.1.j.  RISP and RSSP
PL 102-484, Section 4418, provided for the payment of RISP to certain reservists who are involuntarily released from the Selected Reserve.
PL 102-484, Section 4416, provided for the payment of RSSP to reservists with at least 20 years of service who are not yet old enough to retire.  Payments are made annually for up to five years or until the reservist turns sixty.
In VAOPGCPREC 9-1996, VA’s General Counsel held that VA is
  • required to withhold disability compensation in order to recoup the amount of RISP a Veteran received, provided the compensation is for a disability incurred in or aggravated by service prior to the date of receipt of RISP, and
  • not required to withhold disability compensation to recoup the amount ofRSSP a Veteran received.
Note:  For award-processing purposes, treat RISP as separation pay.

III.v.4.B.1.k.  SSB and VSI
PL 102-190, Sections 661 and 662, enacted December 5, 1991, added SSB under10 U.S.C. 1174a and VSI under 10 U.S.C. 1175 as separation benefits to facilitate the downsizing of the armed forces.  Service departments used these two exit-bonus incentive programs through December 31, 2001, to encourage service members, who might otherwise face involuntary separation or denial of reenlistment, to separate voluntarily.
To qualify for SSB or VSI, a service member must have
  • separated on or before September 30, 1995
  • served
    • on active duty for more than six years but fewer than 20 years as of December 5, 1991, and
    • at least five years of continuous active duty immediately prior to separation, and
  • agreed to serve in the Ready Reserve.

III.v.4.B.1.l.  Differences Between SSB and VSI
One of the primary differences between VSI and SSB is the manner in which DoD pays each benefit.  The most important difference, however, is that VA is notresponsible for recouping VSI from a Veteran’s disability compensation.
The table below describes how DoD pays SSB and VSI.
If the Veteran elected …
Then DoD pays the Veteran …
SSB
a lump sum amount equal to 15 percent of his/her annual basic pay, multiplied by his/her years of active service.
VSI
annual installments equal to 2.5 percent of his/her basic pay, multiplied by his/her years of service. Payments commence upon discharge and recur on each anniversary date of discharge thereafter.
Note:  In general, the total number of payments equals twice the number of years of active service, provided the Veteran continues to serve in a reserve unit for the duration of the payments.
Reference:  For more information about DoD’s responsibility for reducing a Veteran’s VSI to offset the amount of VA compensation he/she is receiving, seeM21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.1.m.

III.v.4.B.1.m.  DoD’s Responsibility for Adjusting VSI
When a Veteran who elected to receive VSI subsequently establishes entitlement to VA compensation based on the same period of service, DoD reduces the Veteran’s VSI to offset the amount of VA compensation he/she is receiving.  DoD does not make deductions for VA compensation that are based on an earlier period of service than that for which VSI is payable.
Important:  VA takes no special actions, such as notifying DoD, when it awards compensation to a Veteran who receives VSI.
Note:  DFAS, located in Cleveland, Ohio,
  • administers all VSI payments, regardless of the branch of service, and
  • offsets VSI payments based upon data it receives from the Hines Information Technology Center.

III.v.4.B.1.n.  Indicators on DD Form 214 of a Veteran’s Receipt of SSB or VSI
A Veteran’s DD Form 214 usually contains information that indicates whether he/she received SSB or VSI and, if so, the amount.
The table below shows where this information is located on the form and how it might appear.
Block on
DD Form 214
Information the Block Contains
26 and 28
Separation codes (Block 26) and narrative reasons for separation (Block 28).
Examples:
Code
Narrative Reason
CB
Early Release Program–SSB
FCB
Voluntary Resignation for Early Release Program–SSB
KCB
Voluntary Discharge for Early Release Program–SSB
MCB
Voluntary Release/Transfer to Another Service Component for Early Release Program–SSB
CA
Early Release Program–VSI
FCA
Voluntary Resignation, Other, for Early Release Program–VSI
KCA
Voluntary Discharge for Early Release Program–VSI
MCA
Voluntary Release/Transfer to Another Service Component for Early Release Program–VSI
18 (Remarks)
Estimate of the amount of SSB or VSI the Veteran received or is receiving.
Examples:
  • SSB – $27,500 paid lump sum
  • VSI – $4,310 annually for 12 years
Important:
  • Service departments have not historically been consistent in their use of codes and narrative reasons on DD Form 214.
  • Because the amount of separation benefits shown on DD Form 214 is not always accurate, it must be verified through the means described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.b.

III.v.4.B.1.o.  VSP
10 U.S.C. 1175a provides for the payment of VSP to service members voluntarily separated from active duty due to restructuring or a reduction in force.
VA must recoup VSP from a Veteran’s disability compensation unless he/she
  • was eligible to retire (20 or more years of active service), to include transfer to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve, at the time DoD awarded VSP
  • is eligible to receive combat-related special compensation, or
  • receives a waiver from the Secretary of his/her service department.
Exception:  For exceptions to the requirement to recoup VSP from Air Force Veterans, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.4.
Note:  Upon receipt of a waiver for a Veteran whose disability compensation VA is already withholding for the recoupment of VSP, discontinue the withholding and release all previously withheld compensation.

III.v.4.B.1.p.  Indicators on DD Form 214 of a Veteran’s Receipt of VSP
A Veteran’s DD Form 214 usually contains information that indicates whether he/she received VSP and, if so, the amount.
The table below shows where this information is located on the form and how it might appear.
Block on DD Form 214
Information the Block Contains
26
One of the following separation codes:
  • KCN
  • MCN, or
  • FCN.
28
Narrative reason for separation.
Example: Service member initiated discharge/release with VSP as authorized under Title 10 U.S.C. 1175a.
18 (Remarks)
Estimate of the amount of VSP the Veteran received.
Important:
  • Service departments have not historically been consistent in their use of codes and narrative reasons on DD Form 214.
  • Because the amount of separation benefits shown on DD Form 214 is not always accurate, it must be verified through the means described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.b.

III.v.4.B.1.q.  VRI
VRI is a payment DoD offers to encourage voluntary retirement by officers who have served for more than 20 years.
VRI is not subject to recoupment from VA benefits.
Reference:  For more information about VRI, see 10 U.S.C. 638b.

2.  Determining the Amount to Recoup and Withhold From Monthly Payments

Introduction
This topic contains instructions for determining the amount of separation benefits to recoup and the amount to withhold from monthly compensation payments, including

Change Date
April 15, 2019

III.v.4.B.2.a.  General Information About Recouping Separation Benefits
After VA determines recoupment of separation benefits is necessary and the amount that is subject to recoupment, it must withhold some or all of the Veteran’s monthly compensation until recoupment is complete.
Except as noted in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.k and M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.3.g, the amount VA withholds each month includes any of the following to which the Veteran is entitled:
  • additional compensation for dependents, and
  • special monthly compensation (SMC).
Important:  VA may not
  • recoup separation benefits from a Veteran’s compensation if the disability on which the compensation is based was incurred or aggravated during a period of service that follows the period(s) of service for which the Veteran received separation benefits
  • apportion any disability compensation it is withholding for the recoupment of separation benefits
  • withhold Medal of Honor pension to recoup separation benefits, or
  • withhold compensation (for the purpose of recouping separation benefits) to which a Veteran is not entitled because of his/her receipt of military retired pay (MRP).  (When processing an award that requires the establishment of a withholding for MRP and recoupment of separation benefits, withhold payment for MRP until the retired pay cutoff date referenced in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 5.B.2.b, then begin the withholding for separation benefits effective the retired pay cutoff date.)
References:  For more information about

III.v.4.B.2.b.  Confirming the Amount of the Separation Benefit
The records described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.1.b typically show the amount of the separation benefit a Veteran received.  Because this amount is not always accurate, however, regional offices (ROs) must confirm the amount by following the instructions in the table below.
Step
Action
1
Access the DFAS/CG PAYMENTS tab in the Veterans Information Solution (VIS).
2
Do the fields below the Non-Recurring Pay at Separation Informationheading contain data?
  • If yes, proceed to the next step.
  • If no, proceed to Step 7.
Note:  Sixty to ninety days may pass between the date a Veteran is awarded separation benefits and the date corresponding updates are made to VIS.
3
Follow the instructions in the table below.
If …
Then …
the letter P appears in the PAY TYPE CD field under the Non-Recurring Pay at Separation Informationheading
proceed to Step 4.
Note:  In this situation, only theprojected amount of the separation benefit is displayed in the fields under the Non-Recurring Pay at Separation Information heading.
the letter P does notappear in the PAY TYPE CD field under the Non-Recurring Pay at Separation Informationheading
  • confirm the amount of the separation benefit using the data shown in the fields under the Non-Recurring Pay at Separation Informationheading, and
  • proceed to Step 5.
  • the letter Pappears in the PAY TYPE CD field of one row under the Non-Recurring Pay at Separation Informationheading, and
  • the letter Vappears in the PAY TYPE CD field of a subsequent row under the same heading
  • confirm the amount of the separation benefit using the data shown in the fields of the row under the Non-Recurring Pay at Separation Informationheading that has the letter V in the PAY TYPE CD field, and
  • proceed to Step 5.
Exception:  Disregard the instructions in this cell and proceed to Step 7 if there is reason to believe the amount of the separation benefit displayed in the referenced row is incorrect because, for example, the amount displayed is
  • a negative amount, or
  • much higher or much lower than the amount to which a similarly situated Veteran would be entitled.
Note:  There exists a dollar limit to the amount of the separation benefit detailed in a single row under the Non-Recurring Pay at Separation heading.  When this limit is exceeded, another row will appear under the same heading that displays the remaining amount of the separation benefit.  In this situation, add together the amounts in both rows to determine the total amount of the separation benefit.
4
Postpone award processing for 30 days then repeat Steps 1 through 3.
Important:  As an alternative to postponing award action, claims processors may proceed to Step 7.
5
Navigate to the REPORTS tab in VIS and download a copy of theVeteran DFAS/CG Payments report.
6
Upload a copy of the Veteran DFAS/CG Payments report to the Veteran’s electronic claims folder (eFolder) in VBMS and disregard the remaining steps in this table.
7
Did the Veteran receive the separation benefit from the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps?
  • If yes, proceed to the next step.
  • If no, proceed to Step 9.
8
Do any of the conditions described in the left column of the table inM21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.c exist?
9
  • Call the Coast Guard Customer Care Branch (866-772-8724).
  • Provide the branch with the following information:
    • Veteran’s name and Social Security number, and
    • caller’s name and contact information.
  • Ask the branch to provide the following information:
    • type of separation benefit the Veteran received
    • date the Veteran received the separation benefit
    • gross amount of the separation benefit, and
    • amount of Federal income tax withheld.
Note:  The branch typically responds to requests within 10 to 15 days.
10
Did the branch respond within 30 days?
  • If yes, disregard the remaining steps in this table.
  • If no, follow up with the branch by telephone.
11
Did the branch respond within 30 days of the follow-up telephone call referenced in Step 10?
  • If yes, disregard the remaining steps in this table.
  • If no, proceed to Step 19.
12
Review the Veteran’s claims folder to determine whether a claims processor has already submitted a request for confirmation of the amount of the separation benefit through the AskDFAS website.
13
Has a claims processor already submitted the request referenced in Step 12?
  • If yes, proceed to the next step.
  • If no, proceed to Step 17.
14
Was confirmation of the amount of the separation benefit obtained through AskDFAS?
  • If yes, disregard the remaining steps in this table.
  • If no, proceed to the next step.
15
Has at least 45 days passed since the claims processor submitted the request referenced in Step 12?
  • If yes,
    • request an update on the status of the request through the AskDFAS website, and
    • proceed to the next step.
  • If no, return to Step 14 after the 45-day response period ends.
16
Was confirmation of the amount of the separation benefit obtained through AskDFAS within 15 days of the date of the request for a status update?
  • If yes, disregard the remaining steps in this table.
  • If no, proceed to Step 19.
17
Submit a request for confirmation of the amount of the separation benefit through the AskDFAS website.
Important:  Do not postpone promulgation of a rating decision while waiting for a response to the request referenced in the preceding paragraph.
  • Promulgate the rating decision using the unverified amount of the separation benefit, if available.
  • If no amount is of record (in, for example, Share or on the Veteran’s application for benefits or DD Form 214),
    • use $99,999.00 as the amount of the separation benefit, and
    • establish end product (EP) 290 to control for a response to the request submitted throughAskDFAS.
18
Was confirmation obtained within 45 days?
  • If yes, disregard the remaining step in this table.
  • If no,
    • request an update on the status of the request through the AskDFAS website, and
    • proceed to Step 16.
19
Request assistance in confirming the amount of the separation benefit from Compensation Service’s Military Pay Staff by sending an encrypted e-mail to VAVBAWAS/CO/MILPAY.
  • Enter Need Assistance in Verification of [type of separation benefit] in the subject line of the e-mail.
  • Include in the body of the e-mail
    • the Veteran’s name and file number, and
    • a description of the attempts to obtain confirmation of the amount of the Veteran’s separation benefit through AskDFAS or the Coast Guard Customer Care Branch.
Notes:
  • If the Military Pay Staff does not respond to the e-mail within 15 days, follow up with a second e-mail.
    • Enter 15-Day Follow-Up:  Need Assistance in Verification of [type of separation benefit] in the subject line of the e-mail.
    • Include in the body of the e-mail the date and time of the original e-mail.
  • Upload a copy of all sent and received e-mails into the Veteran’s eFolder.

References:  For information about

III.v.4.B.2.c.  Conditions Under Which Claims Processors May Not Use AskDFAS to Obtain Confirmation of the Amount of a Veteran’s Separation Benefit
Because certain records that DFAS requires to confirm the amount of a Veteran’s separation benefit are no longer accessible, there are conditions under which the submission of a request for said confirmation through AskDFAS will always result in a negative reply.  The table below describes those conditions and the actions claims processors must take instead of attempting to obtain confirmation through AskDFAS.
If the Veteran received separation benefits based on discharge from …
Then …
the Air Force Reserve in October 1999
use (for award-processing purposes) the amount of separation benefits recorded on the Veteran’s
  • DD Form 214, or
  • application for VA benefits.
Notes:
  • If differing amounts were recorded on the referenced documents, use the amount the Veteran recorded on his/her application for VA benefits.
  • If no amount was recorded on either of the referenced documents, request assistance from Compensation Service’s Military Pay Staff by sending an e-mail toVAVBAWAS/CO/MILPAY.
active duty in the Air Force prior to 1972
active duty in the Army prior to 1972
  • the Navy prior to 1977
  • the Marine Corps Reserve prior to 1983, or
  • active duty in the Marine Corps prior to 1969
request confirmation of the amount of the Veteran’s separation benefit by submitting Standard Form 180, Request Pertaining to Military Records, to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC).
Notes:
  • The form contains instructions for its completion and submission.
  • Send follow-up requests to NPRC every 90 days until confirmation is obtained or NPRC provides a negative response.
Reference:  For more information about submittingStandard Form 180 to NPRC, see the National Archives website.

III.v.4.B.2.d.  Determining Whether and How Much to Recoup
The following factors determine whether and how much of a Veteran’s separation benefits VA must recoup from his/her disability compensation:
  • type of separation benefit
  • date of entitlement to VA compensation, and
  • date of receipt of the separation benefit.
The table below shows how these factors affect recoupment of the various types of separation benefits.
Type of Separation Benefit
Date of Entitlement to VA Compensation
Date of Receipt of the Separation Benefit
Amount of Pay VA Recoups
  • readjustment pay under former 10 U.S.C. 3814a, or
  • non-disability severance pay
prior to September 15, 1981
n/a
none
on or after September 15, 1981
on or before September 30, 1996
pre-tax amount
after September 30, 1996
after-tax amount
readjustment pay under former 10 U.S.C. 687
prior to September 15, 1981
n/a
75 percent of pre-tax amount
on or after September 15, 1981
on or before September 30, 1996
pre-tax amount
after September 30, 1996
after-tax amount
SSB
n/a
PL 105-178provides for recoupment of theafter-tax amount of SSB a Veteran receives, regardless of the date of receipt.
after-tax amount
n/a
on or before September 30, 1996
pre-tax amount
after September 30, 1996
after-tax amount
disability severance pay for a disability VA initially rated at least 10-percent disabling
n/a
on or before September 30, 1996
pre-tax amount
after September 30, 1996
after-tax amount
Exceptions:  For exceptions to the policies described in the table above, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.e.
References:  For more information about the recoupment of

III.v.4.B.2.e.  Exceptions to Policies for Recouping Separation Benefits
The table below contains exceptions to the policies described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.d regarding the recoupment of separation benefits.
If …
Then …
a Veteran received VSP from the Air Force
follow the instructions inM21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.4.
  • a Veteran received disability severance payon or after January 28, 2008, for a disability incurred in a combat zone or during combat-related operations, and
  • VA rated the disability at least 10-percent disabling
follow the instructions inM21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.3.e.
  • a Veteran received disability severance payafter September 30, 1996, for a disability that was not incurred in a combat zone or during combat-related operations
  • VA rated the disability at least 10-percent disabling, and
  • VA discovers the Veteran’s service department
    • did not withhold Federal income tax from the disability severance pay, or
    • withheld the tax but later refunded it
recoup the gross/pre-taxamount of disability severance pay the service department paid the Veteran.

III.v.4.B.2.f.  Service Departments’ Practice of Withholding Federal Income Tax
Service departments always withhold Federal income tax from RISP, VSP, SSB, and separation pay under 10 U.S.C. 1174.  Often, however, DoD’s database doesnot contain the amount of Federal income tax service departments withheld from these types of separation benefits.  In these cases, VIS will show $0.00 as the Federal income tax withholding.
Follow the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.g, in the situation described in the preceding paragraph or anytime VA has verified the gross amount of a Veteran’s separation benefit but has not yet verified the amount of Federal income tax his/her service department withheld.
Important:  If the separation benefit a Veteran received is disability severance pay, and VIS shows $0.00 as the Federal income tax withholding, the Veteran’s service department
  • did not withhold Federal income tax, or
  • withheld the tax but subsequently refunded it.

III.v.4.B.2.g.  Calculating the After-Tax Amount of Separation Benefits
To calculate the after-tax amount of a Veteran’s separation benefit,
  • use the table below to determine which flat-tax rate was in effect on the date the Veteran received the benefit
  • multiply the gross amount of the separation benefit by the appropriate flat-tax rate, and
  • subtract the product from the gross amount of the separation benefit.
Effective Date
Flat-Tax Rate
December 31, 1993, and earlier
20 percent
January 1, 1994
28 percent
August 7, 2001
27.5 percent
January 1, 2002
27 percent
May 28, 2003
25 percent
January 1, 2018
22 percent
Notes:
  • There is no need to make the calculations described in this block when
    • claims processors use VIS to verify the amount of a Veteran’s separation benefit, and
    • VIS displays the amount of Federal income tax the Veteran’s service department withheld.
  • A request for the adjustment of a recoupment balance, based on an assertion that the Federal income tax a Veteran paid on a separation benefit was incorrectly reported to or calculated by VA, must be supported by credible evidence showing the amount of Federal income tax the Veteran actually paid.
  • If questions arise regarding calculation of the after-tax amount of a Veteran’s separation benefit, request assistance by sending an e-mail toVAVBAWAS/CO/MILPAY, which is the corporate mailbox of Compensation Service’s Military Pay Staff.
Reference:  For up-to-date information about the flat-tax rate for supplemental wages, see the Internal Revenue Manual, Part 4, 23.8.4.

III.v.4.B.2.h.  Handling Separation Benefits When Compensation Becomes Greater Than Pension
Follow the instructions in the table below when all four of the following conditions exist:
  • a Veteran received separation benefits that have not yet been entirely recouped
  • the Veteran is receiving pension
  • entitlement to compensation is established and compensation would be the greater benefit, and
  • the amount of compensation payable to the Veteran is actually less than the amount of pension payable because VA must withhold all or part of the Veteran’s compensation in order to recoup the separation benefits.
Step
Action
1
Attempt to contact the Veteran by telephone and explain that compensation is not the greater benefit because VA must withhold all or part of it in order to recoup the separation benefits the Veteran received.
2
Was the attempt to contact the Veteran by telephone successful?
  • If yes, proceed to Step 3.
  • If no,
    • document the actions taken to contact the Veteran with a system note
    • continue the Veteran’s pension award
    • draft a letter to the Veteran that
      • explains why VA chose to continue the pension award, and
      • advises the Veteran that he/she should contact VA if he/she still desires to elect compensation instead of pension, and
      • informs the Veteran that if at some point he/she becomes ineligible for pension, VA will convert his/her award to compensation and begin recouping the separation benefit, and
    • disregard the remaining step in this table.
3
Did the Veteran confirm his/her election of compensation?
  • If yes,
  • If no,
    • document telephone contact with the Veteran on VA Form 27-0820
    • upload VA Form 27-0820 to the Veteran’s eFolder
    • continue paying the Veteran pension
    • inform the Veteran that if at some point he/she becomes ineligible for pension, VA will convert his/her award to compensation and begin recouping the separation benefit, and
    • notify the Veteran in a decision notice that VA made no changes to his/her benefits.
Note:  VA must withhold the entire benefit if the Veteran elects compensation. Therefore, VA should give the Veteran the opportunity to be fully informed of all the facts before beginning a withholding.

III.v.4.B.2.i.  Recouping Separation Benefits After a Veteran Becomes Entitled to MRP
If a Veteran becomes entitled to MRP after receiving separation benefits, the retired pay center (RPC) must recoup the gross amount of separation benefits it paid to the Veteran from his/her MRP.  If these same separation benefits are subject to recoupment by VA because of the Veteran’s entitlement to disability compensation, VA and the RPC become mutually responsible for their recoupment.
Exceptions:
  • The RPC is not responsible for recouping a retired Veteran’s separation benefits if the Veteran waives his/her MRP in order to receive disability compensation.
  • The RPC does not recoup disability severance pay if a Veteran who received this benefit returns to active duty and later becomes entitled to MRP.
The table below describes how VA and the RPC work together when both departments are responsible for recouping a Veteran’s separation benefits.
If …
Then …
an RPC establishes an MRP account for a Veteran who received separation benefits
the RPC is responsible for notifying the station of origination (SOO) of the
  • Veteran’s entitlement to MRP, and
  • amount of separation benefits the RPC
    • has already recouped, if any, and
    • will continue to recoup each month from the Veteran’s MRP.
The SOO must then
  • provide the RPC with the amount of separation benefits VA
    • has already recouped, if any, and
    • will continue to recoup each month if continued recoupment is necessary
  • estimate the date on which recoupment of the separation benefit by VA and DoD should be complete, and
  • establish a system diary that will expire on that date.
an RO discovers that a Veteran who received separation benefits that are subject to recoupment by VA is now receiving MRP
the RO is responsible for
  • notifying the RPC of the amount of separation benefits VA
    • has already recouped, if any, and
    • will continue to recoup each month if continued recoupment is necessary
  • asking the RPC to provide the amount of
    • separation benefits it has already recouped, if any, and
    • MRP it is withholding each month to recoup the separation benefit
  • estimating the date on which recoupment of the separation benefit by VA and DoD should be complete, and
  • establishing a system diary that will expire on that date.
Note:  Upon expiration of the system diary referenced in the above table, the SOO must
  • collaborate with the RPC to determine the exact date on which recoupment of the Veteran’s separation benefit was complete, and
  • adjust the Veteran’s award accordingly.
References:  For information about

III.v.4.B.2.j.  Adjusting the Amount of Compensation VA Is Withholding
The rules for withholding VA compensation to recoup separation benefits have changed over time.  If the recoupment of separation benefits was correctly initiated under former rules, do not adjust a Veteran’s award for the sole purpose of bringing it into compliance with current rules, unless the Veteran or his/her representative specifically requests it.
Should the need arise to adjust the amount of compensation VA is withholding for the reason described above, make the adjustment prospectively, effective the datein the LAST PAID DATE field on the AWARD INFORMATION tab in Share.

III.v.4.B.2.k. Recouping Separation Benefits (Other Than Disability Severance Pay) From a Veteran With Multiple Periods of Service
Important:  The information in this block applies to the recoupment of all types of separation benefits except disability severance pay.
Separation benefits are not paid for a particular period of service.  Rather, the payment is for all periods of service that preceded the separation for which a separation benefit was paid.
  • Disability compensation payable for disabilities incurred during any period of service that preceded the separation for which a separation benefit was paid is subject to withholding for the purpose of recouping that separation benefit.
  • Disability compensation payable for disabilities incurred during a period of service that follows the separation for which a separation benefit was paid is not subject to withholding for the purpose of recouping that separation benefit.
Example:
Scenario:
  • A Veteran has three periods of service:
    • 1980 to 1985
    • 1990 to 1995, and
    • 2000 to 2005.
  • The Veteran received a separation benefit at the end of the secondperiod of service.
  • In 2010, the Veteran files a claim for disability compensation for a knee disorder, a back disorder, and a skin disorder.
  • The rating activity determines
    • the knee disorder was incurred during the first period of service
    • the back disorder was incurred during the second period of service, and
    • the skin disorder was incurred during the last period of service.
Action:  Withhold disability compensation payable for the knee and back disorders (subject to the limitations discussed in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.1.j).
Notes:
  • In scenarios similar to the one described in this block, the rating activity is responsible for identifying (on the rating decision codesheet) the period of service during which each disability had its onset.
  • If an adjustment to a withholding becomes necessary because of the establishment of service connection (SC) for a disability a Veteran incurred after he/she received separation benefits, adjust the withholding prospectively, effective the date in the LAST PAID DATE field on the AWARD INFORMATION tab in Share.
Reference:  For more information about the rating activity’s responsibility to identify the period of service during which certain service-connected (SC) disabilities had their onset, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iv, 6.E.5.c and d.

3.  Instructions Unique to the Recoupment of Disability Severance Pay

Introduction
This topic contains instructions that are unique to the recoupment of disability severance pay, including

Change Date
April 15, 2019

III.v.4.B.3.a.  Identifying
Severance-Pay Disability(ies) Using the PEB Report
Before recouping disability severance pay, it is necessary to identify the disability(ies) for which the Veteran received this benefit.  The best source for this information is the Veteran’s Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) report, which is normally included in his/her service treatment records (STRs).
If the PEB report is not included in the Veteran’s STRs, it might be located in his/her service personnel records.  Use the table below to determine how to submit a request for the PEB report.
If the Veteran separated from the…
Then submit a request through…
  • Coast Guard
  • Army prior to October 1, 1994
  • Navy prior to January 1, 1995
  • Air Force prior to October 1, 2004, or
  • Marine Corp prior to January 1, 1999
PIES, using request code O50.
Exception:  Use request code O11when processing a claim outside of VBMS.
  • Army on or after October 1, 1994
  • Navy on or after January 1, 1995
  • Air Force on or after October 1, 2004, or
  • Marine Corp on or after January 1, 1999
the Defense Personnel Records Image Retrieval System (DPRIS), using request code AG5.
References:  For more information about using

III.v.4.B.3.b.  General Policies Regarding Withholdings to Recoup Disability Severance Pay
Generally, if a Veteran received disability severance pay, VA must withhold from his/her monthly compensation an amount equal to the monthly compensation payable for the disability(ies) for which the Veteran received disability severance pay.  VA continues to withhold this amount until it has recouped the amount specified in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.2.d.
Important:
  • The monthly withholding may never exceed the monthly amount of compensation payable based on the initial, compensable rating, as defined in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.3.c, that VA assigns the severance-pay disability(ies).
  • If a Veteran has multiple, severance-pay disabilities, each rated 0-percent disabling, and VA assigns a 10-percent disability rating to them under 38 CFR 3.324, no withholding is necessary for these disabilities until VA assigns a compensable rating to one or more of them, individually.
  • Withhold the additional benefits payable because of application of the bilateral factor if
    • the initial, compensable rating included application of the bilateral factor, and
    • entitlement to the bilateral factor was based exclusively on severance-pay disabilities.
Exception:  If VA initially assigns a severance-pay disability a temporary 100-percent rating under 38 CFR 4.28, 4.29, or 4.30,
  • VA must withhold all of the Veteran’s monthly compensation until entitlement to the temporary 100-percent rating ends, and
  • monthly withholdings thereafter may never exceed the monthly amount of compensation payable based on the disability rating VA assigns the severance-pay disability(ies) immediately after entitlement to the temporary 100-percent rating ends.
Examples:  The table below contains examples of how to apply the policies set forth in this block.
If VA initially rated the severance-pay disability …
And VA subsequently …
Then VA continues to withhold from the Veteran’s monthly compensation …
20-percent disabling
rates the same disability 30-percent disabling
the amount payable for a disability rated 20-percent disabling.
50-percent disabling
assigns a temporary 100-percent rating to the same disability under 38 CFR 4.28, 4.29, or 4.30
the amount payable for a disability rated 50-percent disabling.
0-percent disabling
assigns a temporary 100-percent rating to the same disability under 38 CFR 4.28, 4.29, or 4.30
nothing, until it assigns the disability a compensable rating.
Notes:
  • The Exception and Examples in this block assume the Veteran received disability severance pay for all of his/her SC disabilities. If the Veteran has other SC disabilities for which he/she did not receive disability severance pay, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.3.g–i.
  • Upon the assignment of a compensable evaluation (other than a temporary 100 percent rating under 38 CFR 4.28, 4.29, or 4.30) to a severance-pay disability that was initially rated 0-percent disabling, send a notice of proposed adverse action to the Veteran before reducing his/her benefits.
Reference:  For more information about sending notice of a proposed adverse action, see M21-1, Part I, 2.B.

III.v.4.B.3.c.  Definition:  Initial, Compensable Disability Rating
For the purpose of this section, initial, compensable disability rating means the first disability rating VA assigns to a disability that is 10 percent or higher, except100-percent ratings under 38 CFR 4.28, 4.29, or 4.30.
If VA assigns a compensable disability rating for the first time, and subsequently increases the rating effective the same date it assigned the first one, the very first rating VA assigned is still considered the “initial, compensable disability rating” for the purpose of this section.
Example:  VA assigned a Veteran’s SC back disorder a 10-percent disability rating, effective April 21, 2011.  The Veteran filed a legacy appeal of the decision, and VA later increased the rating to 20 percent, effective the same date it had assigned the 10-percent rating.
Result:  The initial, compensable disability rating in this example is 10 percent.
Exception:  If VA increases an initial, compensable disability rating from the same effective date based on clear and unmistakable error (CUE), the new rating replaces the first one and becomes the initial, compensable disability rating.  When adjusting the withholding in these cases, make the adjustment prospectively, effective the date in the LAST PAID DATE field on the AWARD INFORMATION tab in Share.
References:  For more information about

III.v.4.B.3.d.  Handling Reduced Disability Ratings and Disability Severance Pay
If VA reduces the disability rating it initially assigned to a severance-pay disability, it must make a corresponding adjustment in the amount of compensation it withholds each month (to recoup disability severance pay) to reflect the new rating.
Important:  The new rating does not become the initial disability rating (as defined in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.3.c), however, unless VA determines the initial rating was clearly and unmistakably erroneous.
Example:
  • VA assigns an initial disability rating of 30 percent to a severance-pay disability, effective April 21, 2006.
  • Two years later, improvement in the disability is demonstrated during a routine review examination.
  • VA reduces the disability rating for the severance-pay disability to 10 percent in December 2008 and concurrently reduces the amount of compensation it is withholding to correspond with the new rating.
  • In August 2010, VA increases the disability rating for the severance-pay disability to 50 percent.  It concurrently increases the withholding to an amount that corresponds with the initial disability rating of 30 percent.
Note:  If, in addition to the severance-pay disability, a Veteran has at least one SC disability for which he/she did not receive severance pay (hereafter referred to as a “non-severance-pay disability”), follow the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.3.g–i to ensure the method chosen to calculate the withholding is most advantageous to the Veteran.
Reference:  For information pertaining to the recoupment of severance pay from an incarcerated Veteran’s award, follow the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 8.A.4.c.

III.v.4.B.3.e.  Disability Severance Pay for Disabilities Incurred in a Combat Zone or During Combat-Related Operations
PL 110-181, as implemented in 38 CFR 3.700(a)(3), prohibits the recoupment of disability severance pay from VA compensation if the Veteran
  • separated from service on or after January 28, 2008, and
  • incurred the disability for which he/she received disability severance pay in the line of duty in a combat zone or during the performance of duty in combat-related operations.
Exception:  The provisions of this block may apply to a Veteran who separated from service prior to January 28, 2008, if
  • the Veteran incurred a disability in the line of duty in a combat zone or during the performance of duty in combat-related operations, and
  • DoD subsequently
    • placed the Veteran on the Temporary Disability Retirement List (TDRL)
    • later removed the Veteran from TDRL on or after January 28, 2008, and
    • awarded the Veteran disability severance pay for the same disability.
Important:
  • Prior to August 5, 2014, the “combat-related operations” requirement was met only if the disability in question was the result of armed conflict.  On or after this date, the requirement is met if the disability is combat-related.
  • DoD – not VA – decides whether a disability was incurred in the line of duty in a combat zone or during combat-related operations.
Reference:  For information about determining whether DoD paid disability severance pay that is not subject to recoupment under 38 CFR 3.700(a)(3), seeM21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.3.f.

III.v.4.B.3.f. Determining Whether a Disability Was Incurred in a Combat Zone or During Combat-Related Operations 
Each of the following represents an indicator that a Veteran incurred a disability in the line of duty in a combat zone or during combat-related operations.  Disability severance pay the Veteran received for such a disability is not subject to recoupment.
  • The text in Block 28 of DD Form 214 indicates the disability
    • was incurred in a combat zone, or
    • (if the Veteran separated from service on or after August 5, 2014) is combat-related.
  • The Veteran separated from service on or after August 5, 2014, and his/her PEB report or separation orders indicate the disability is the result of a combat-related injury.
  • The Veteran’s PEB report or separation orders contain the following statement:  Disability was incurred in a combat zone or incurred during the performance of duty in combat-related operations as designated by the Secretary of Defense (NDAA 2008, Sec 1646).
    • If the statement is followed by the word Yes, the statement is true, and the severance pay the Veteran received for the disability is not subject to recoupment.
    • If the statement is followed by the word No, the statement is nottrue, and the severance pay the Veteran received is subject to recoupment.
    • If the statement is followed by neither Yes nor No, the statement is true, and the severance pay the Veteran received for the disability is not subject to recoupment.
  • A letter from DFAS or the Coast Guard indicates the Veteran has been removed from TDRL and paid disability severance pay on or after August 5, 2014, for a combat-related disability.  (If the Veteran was removed from TDRL and paid disability severance pay prior to August 5, 2014, the letter must state the disability was incurred in a combat zone or include the following statement:  Disability was incurred in a combat zone or incurred during the performance of duty in combat-related operations as designated by the Secretary of Defense (NDAA 2008, Sec 1646).
  • One or more of the following are present in the description of the disability on a PEB report or separation orders:
    • Combat Zone
    • CZ
    • Czone
    • Armed Conflict
    • AC
    • (CR-AC)
    • CR-CZ, or
    • CR (if the Veteran separated from service on or after August 5, 2014).
Important:  The content of the CMBT RELATED CD field on the DFAS/CG PAYMENTS screen in VIS is not a reliable indicator of whether or not a Veteran incurred a disability in the line of duty in a combat zone or during combat-related operations.

III.v.4.B.3.g.  Withholding Compensation When the Veteran Did Not Receive Severance Pay for All SC  Disabilities
If VA has awarded SC for both severance- and non-severance-pay disabilities, VA may not withhold an amount greater than that to which the Veteran is entitled based on the non-severance-pay disability(ies).  This includes the additional amount of compensation payable for
  • dependents (if the non-severance-pay disabilities alone have a combined rating of at least 30 percent), and/or
  • SMC (if the SMC is based on non-severance-pay disabilities alone).

III.v.4.B.3.h.  Example:  VA Assigns a 100-Percent Disability Rating to a Non-Severance-Pay Disability
Scenario:  In a decision on a Veteran’s original claim for benefits, VA awards SC for
  • a severance-pay disability rated 50-percent disabling, and
  • a non-severance-pay disability rated 100-percent disabling.
Result:  VA may not withhold any compensation to recoup the Veteran’s disability severance pay while the non-severance-pay disability is rated 100-percent disabling.
Note:  The result in this example is the same, regardless of whether or not VA assigned the 100-percent rating on a temporary basis under 38 CFR 4.28, 4.29, or4.30.

III.v.4.B.3.i.  Withholding an Amount That Is Most Advantageous to the Veteran
When calculating the monthly amount of VA compensation to withhold from a Veteran with both severance and non-severance-pay disabilities, always use the withholding that pays the Veteran the higher rate of compensation.
Example:  VA assigns a combined disability rating of 70 percent to a married Veteran based on a
  • severance-pay disability rated 50-percent disabling, and
  • non-severance-pay disability rated 40-percent disabling.
Two methods exist for calculating how much of the Veteran’s compensation VA should withhold each month:
Method 1:  Withhold the amount of compensation payable for the severance-pay disability, to include the additional amount for a spouse.
Method 2:  Pay the Veteran the amount payable for the non-severance-pay disability, to include the additional amount for a spouse, and withhold everything else.
Result:  The table below shows the calculations for each of the two methods, using rates from the December 1, 2006, compensation rate table for a Veteran with a spouse only.  Because Method 2 provides the Veteran with a higher rate of compensation in this example, use that method to determine how much of the Veteran’s compensation to withhold.
Method 1
$1,232.00
Start with the rate payable for a combined disability rating of 70 percent.
  – 781.00
Withhold the amount payable for the severance-pay disability.
     451.00
Pay the remaining amount to the Veteran.
Method 2
$1,232.00
Start with the rate payable for a combined disability rating of 70 percent
  – 556.00
Pay the Veteran the amount payable for the non-severance-pay disability.
     676.00
Withhold the difference between the two rates.
Note:  If, in the example above, VA subsequently awarded the Veteran a total evaluation based on individual unemployability, the amount of the withholding under Method 2 would remain the same. This is because VA calculates the withholding based on the actual disability rating assigned to the severance-pay disability, not the rate payable because VA found the Veteran individually unemployable.

III.v.4.B.3.j.  Changes in the Disability Ratings of Multiple Severance-Pay Disabilities
If the disability ratings assigned to two or more severance-pay disabilities change, compare the combined disability rating VA initially assigned to the severance-pay disabilities with the current combined disability rating.
If the initial, combined disability rating is less than or equal to the current combined disability rating for the same disabilities, withhold compensation at the rate payable for the initial combined disability rating rather than considering the changes in the ratings assigned to each individual disability.
The table below contains two examples of situations in which VA would withhold compensation at the rate payable for the initial, combined disability rating of 40 percent.
Initial Disability Rating
Current Disability Rating – Example #1
Current Disability Rating – Example #2
Disability A – 20%
Disability A – 10%
Disability A – 10%
Disability B – 10%
Disability B – 30%
Disability B – 30%
Disability C – 10%
Disability C – 0%
Disability C – 20%
Combined – 40%
Combined – 40%
Combined – 50%
Note:  If, during a routine review of a claims folder, it is discovered that VA failed to comply with the instructions in this block and withheld compensation at a rate other than it should have been, prospectively adjust the withholding to the correct rate effective the date in the LAST PAID DATE field on the AWARD INFORMATION tab in Share.  If the adjustment will reduce the amount of net compensation payable to the Veteran, follow the due process procedures found in M21-1, Part I, 2.B.

4.  Recouping VSP Awarded to Air Force Veterans

 

Introduction
This topic contains information about recouping VSP awarded to Air Force Veterans, including

Change Date
January 2, 2019

III.v.4.B.4.a.  History Behind the Current Recoupment Schedule for VSP
On October 17, 2007, the Secretary of the Air Force issued a blanket waiver of the requirement to recoup VSP from VA compensation for service members released from active duty on or after that date.
Six months later, on April 30, 2008, the Department of the Air Force replaced the blanket waiver with a recoupment schedule for service members released from active duty on or after the latter date.
Follow the instructions in the table below upon receipt of a claim for VA compensation from an Air Force Veteran who received VSP.
If the Veteran was separated from the Air Force …
Then …
before October 17, 2007
recoup VSP from VA compensation unless the Veteran received an individual waiver.
between
  • October 17, 2007, and
  • April 29, 2008
do not recoup VSP from VA compensation.
on or after April 30, 2008
recoup VSP according to the recoupment schedule below.
If the Veteran’s combined disability rating is …
Then withhold frommonthly payments …
10 or 20 percent
100 percent of his/her VA compensation.
30, 40, or 50 percent
75 percent of his/her VA compensation.
60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 percent
50 percent of his/her VA compensation.

III.v.4.B.4.b.  Instructions for Preparing an Award That Recoups VSP
Follow the instructions in the VETSNET Awards User Guide for preparing an award that recoups separation benefits if a Veteran
  • received VSP from the Air Force, and
  • separated from the Air Force before October 17, 2007.
Follow the instructions in the table below if
  • a Veteran received VSP from the Air Force
  • the Veteran separated from the Air Force on or after April 30, 2008, and
  • the Veteran’s combined disability rating is higher than 20 percent.
Step
Action
1
Select the RATING button on the RECORD DECISIONS screen
2
Select the COMBINED RATING AWARD tab.
3
Verify that the combined disability rating (displayed in the column labeled SC%) is at least 30 percent.
4
Select the MILITARY PAYMENT INFORMATION button on the RECORD DECISIONS screen.
5
Select the DISCHARGE PAY tab.
6
Click on the ADD button.
7
Select Separation Pay from the DISCHARGE PAY TYPE drop-down box.
8
Enter the gross and after-tax amounts of VSP in the GROSS AMT and AFTER TAX AMT fields, respectively.
9
Enter the date the Veteran separated from the Air Force in the RAD DATE field.
10
Click on the DONE button.
11
Click on the OK button.
12
Select the AWARD ADJUSTMENTS button on the RECORD DECISIONS screen.
13
Select the SEPARATION PAY tab.
14
Select Separation Pay from the SEPARATION PAY TYPE drop-down box.
15
Enter the amount of VSP in the ORIGINAL BALANCE field.
16
Enter the effective date of the award in the AWD EFF DT field.
17
Click on the DONE button.
18
Select the OTHER ADJUSTMENTS tab.
19
Click on the ADD button.
20
Select Preserve Net Rate from the ADJUSTMENT REASON drop-down box.
21
Determine the amount of disability compensation VA must withhold by referring to the recoupment schedule shown in the table in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.4.a.
Important:  If the amount VA must withhold includes a fraction of a cent (such as $792.0975) drop the fraction of the cent (to $729.09 in the instant example).
22
Subtract the amount of disability compensation VA must withhold (as determined in Step 21) from the amount of disability compensation that is otherwise payable to the Veteran.
23
Enter the result of the calculation described in Step 22 in the ADJUSTMENT AMOUNT field.
24
  • Enter the effective date of the award adjustment in the FROM DATE field.
  • Click on the DONE button.
Note:  If multiple award lines must be changed, repeat the actions described in steps 19 through 24.
25
Click on the GENERATE AWARD button.

III.v.4.B.4.c.  Recoupment of VSP From an Incarcerated Air Force Veteran’s Compensation
If VA is recouping an Air Force Veteran’s VSP from his/her disability compensation, using the recoupment schedule in the third row of the table under M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 4.B.4.a, and that Veteran’s disability compensation becomes subject to reduction due to incarceration,
  • temporarily abandon the recoupment schedule
  • continue recoupment of VSP, but at the reduced rate specified in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 8.A.2.a, and
  • resume recoupment according to the recoupment schedule after incarceration ends.

5.  Taking Award Action to Withhold Compensation

Introduction
This topic contains information on taking award action to withhold compensation, including

Change Date
January 2, 2019

III.v.4.B.5.a.  Determining the Appropriate Effective Date for Commencing the Recoupment of Separation Benefits
Use the table below to determine the appropriate effective date for commencing the recoupment of separation benefits from a Veteran’s disability compensation.
Type of Award
Effective Date to Commence Recoupment
initial or supplemental
effective date of compensation award
running
date in the LAST PAID DATE field on the AWARD INFORMATION tab in Share

III.v.4.B.5.b.  Instructions for Preparing an Award That Withholds Compensation to Recoup SeparationBenefits
To prepare an award that withholds compensation to recoup separation benefits in

III.v.4.B.5.c.  Preparing a Decision Notice After Commencing the Recoupment of Separation Benefits
After taking award action to begin recouping a Veteran’s separation benefits, prepare a decision notice that informs the Veteran
  • of the pre-tax amount of his/her separation benefits
  • of the gross amount of his/her monthly award of compensation
  • of the amount of compensation VA is withholding for recoupment of separation benefits
  • of the net amount of his/her monthly award of compensation, if any, and
  • VA will continue withholding compensation until recoupment is complete.
Important:
  • If VA is withholding all of a Veteran’s compensation to recoup separation benefits, the decision notice must also inform the Veteran that he/she must notify VA of any changes in his/her address and that failure to do so could result in
    • a reduction or discontinuation of benefits, and/or
    • delayed or undeliverable future payments of compensation.
  • If a Veteran is already receiving compensation when VA learns recoupment of his/her separation benefit is necessary, give the Veteran notice of proposed adverse action, as discussed in M21-1, Part I, 2.B,before initiating recoupment.
Reference:  For more information on decision notice requirements, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 2.B.1.

6.  Adjusting an Award From Which VA Withheld or Is Withholding Compensation

Introduction
This topic contains information on adjusting an award from which VA is withholding compensation, including

Change Date
March 25, 2013

III.v.4.B.6.a.  Retroactive Adjustments That Require Special Handling
Follow the instructions in the user guide titled Priors Screen and Audit Error Worksheets (AEWs) if
  • VA completed recoupment of a Veteran’s separation benefits prior to the conversion of his/her award to VETSNET, and
  • a retroactive adjustment of the Veteran’s award from a date prior to completion of the recoupment is now necessary.

III.v.4.B.6.b.  Adjusting an Award Based on a Reduction in the Combined Disability Rating
If, while VA is withholding all of a Veteran’s compensation to recoup separation benefits he/she received, VA decides a decrease in the Veteran’s combined disability rating is in order, the provisions of 38 CFR 3.105(e) still apply.
Even though the Veteran is not receiving compensation, VA must
  • send a notice of proposed adverse action to the Veteran, and
  • allow the Veteran 60 days to provide evidence showing why VA shouldn’t take the proposed action.
Reference:  For more information about notifying a Veteran of a proposed adverse action under 38 CFR 3.105(e), see M21-1, Part IV, Subpart ii, 3.A.3.

III.v.4.B.6.c.  Status of a Recoupment Balance When VA Stops Paying Compensation
When VA stops paying a Veteran compensation from which it had been recouping separation benefits, any amount VA has not yet recouped
  • remains as a charge against any future award of compensation, and
  • is subject to recoupment from any future award of compensation.
Exception:  The principle set forth in this block does not apply when the Veteran dies before VA finishes recouping his/her separation benefit.  The recoupment balance does not remain as a charge against survivors benefits VA subsequently pays based on the Veteran’s service.

7.  Processing Requests for Adjustment of a Withholding Because of Extreme Financial Hardship

Change Date
 April 15, 2019

III.v.4.B.7.a.  Processing Requests for Adjustment of a Withhholding Because of Extreme Financial Hardship
The table below contains instructions for processing a request that VA adjust the amount of a withholding (that is in place to recoup separation benefits) because of extreme financial hardship.
Notes:
  • There is no prescribed form for making the request referenced in this block.
  • VA will accept a request from a Veteran or his/her VA-recognized representative or fiduciary.
Step
Action
1
Establish EP 290, Separation Pay Hardship Request.
2
If the Veteran received disability severance pay, proceed to the next step.  Otherwise, proceed to Step 4.
3
  • Notify the Veteran that the withholding associated with his/her receipt of disability severance pay is not subject to reduction because of financial hardship.
  • Proceed to Step 10.
4
Is the amount of the withholding to recoup separation benefits lessthan the full amount of disability compensation to which the Veteran is otherwise entitled?
  • If yes, proceed to the next step.
  • If no, proceed to Step 6.
5
  • Notify the Veteran that he/she is not eligible for a reduction in the amount of the withholding because VA is withholding lessthan the full amount of disability compensation to which the Veteran is entitled.
  • Proceed to Step 10.
6
Is the Veteran’s combined disability rating at least 30 percent?
  • If yes, proceed to Step 8.
  • If no, proceed to the next step.
7
  • Notify the Veteran that he/she is not eligible for a reduction in the amount of the withholding because his/her combined disability rating is less than 30 percent.
  • Proceed to Step 10.
8
Is the Veteran experiencing extreme financial hardship, as discussed in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 1.D.3.a?
  • If yes,
    • append the Hardship flash to the Veteran’s corporate record, according to the instructions in theShare User Guide, and
    • proceed to Step 11.
  • If no, proceed to the next step.
Important:  The information VA Form 5655, Financial Status Report, requires for completion is essential in making the determination discussed in this step.
  • Unless the Veteran submitted the form (or the information the form requires) with his/her request, request its completion by the Veteran before making the determination discussed in this step.
  • If the Veteran fails to complete and return the form within 30 days, proceed to the next step.
9
Notify the Veteran that VA has rejected his/her request because the evidence of record does not show he/she is experiencing extreme financial hardship.
10
Clear the EP 290 and disregard the remaining steps in this table.
11
  • Forward the request to Compensation Service as a request for an advisory opinion, according to the instructions in M21-1, Part III, Subpart vi, 1.A.
  • Proceed to the next step after receiving a response from Compensation Service.
12
Did Compensation Service determine that a reduction in the amount of the withholding is in order?
  • If yes, proceed to Step 14.
  • If no, proceed to the next step.
13
  • Notify the Veteran that VA has rejected his/her request for a reduction in the amount of the withholding.  Include in the decision notice the reason Compensation Service provided for rejecting the request.
  • Follow the instructions in Step 10 of this table.
14
Select the AWARD ADJUSTMENTS button on the RECORD DECISIONS screen.
15
Select the SEPARATION PAY tab.
16
Select Separation Pay from the SEPARATION PAY TYPE drop-down box.
Note:  The action described in this step causes the system to automatically populate the ORIGINAL BALANCE field with the after-tax amount of the Veteran’s separation benefit.
17
Enter the first day of the month following the current month in the AWD EFF DT field.
Important:  The award adjustment referenced in this table must notresult in a retroactive award of benefits to the Veteran.
18
Click on the DONE button.
19
Select the AWARD ADJUSTMENTS button on the RECORD DECISIONS screen.
20
Select OTHER ADJUSTMENTS on the AWARD ADJUSTMENTS screen.
21
Select Preserve Net Rate from the ADJUSTMENT REASON drop-down box.
22
Enter the amount of the adjustment in the ADJUSTMENT AMT field.
Note:  The amount of the adjustment is typically the amount by which VA will reduce the withholding (that is in place to recoup separation benefits) due to financial hardship.
Example:
Scenario:
  • VA is withholding all of a Veteran’s disability compensation to recoup separation benefits the Veteran received.
  • Because extreme financial hardship has been demonstrated, VA decides to pay the Veteran $100.00 of the compensation it is currently withholding.
Action:  Enter 100.00 in the ADJUSTMENT AMT field.
23
  • Enter the first day of the month following the current month in the FROM DATE field.
  • Click on the DONE button.
Notes:  If multiple award lines must be changed, repeat the actions described in steps 20 through 23.
24
Click on the GENERATE AWARD button.
25
Notify the Veteran of the action taken.
Reference:  For more information about notifying beneficiaries of a VA decision, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 2.B.
1-2-19_Key-Changes_M21-1III_v_4_SecB.docx May 16, 2019 125 KB
Historical_M21-1III_v_4_secB_6-12-15.doc May 16, 2019 445 KB
Historical_M21-1III_v_4_SecB_1-2-19.docx May 16, 2019 151 KB
9-29-16_Key-Changes_M21-1III_v_4_SecB.docx May 16, 2019 109 KB
4-15-19_Key-Changes_M21-1III_v_4_SecB.docx May 16, 2019 103 KB
Change-June-12-2015-Transmittal-Sheet-M21-1III_v_4_SecB_TS.docx May 16, 2019 41 KB
Transmittal-Sheet-M21-1MRIII_v_4_SecB_TS.doc May 16, 2019 134 KB
Transmittal-Sheet-M21-1MRIII_v_4_SecB_TS.docx May 16, 2019 38 KB
in Chapter 4 Elections, Waivers, and Recoupments, Part III General Claims Process, Subpart v General Authorization Issues and Claimant Notification
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