Will I have to pay back my full severance for my medical separation before I can re-enlist?

SPC Seth Louth — Sat, 12 Sep 2020 14:35:01 -0400

I was medically separated last year with a JEA separation code, combat enhanced. I was allotted severance pay to go with that. A year later my injury has fully healed and I’m better then ever and would love nothing more to get back in. I understand I’ll have to be waivered but my question is will that severance have to be paid back in full before I can enlist? Any input would be appreciated! Thank you (would also consider guard if not active again)

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Sep 12 at 2020 3:48 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Sat, 12 Sep 2020 15:48:02 -0400

Dear Seth, I pray that you are successful at finding the answers to your questions. SPC Seth Louth

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2020 4:15 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 12 Sep 2020 16:15:44 -0400

Usually with separation codes like that you won't be able to come back into the military. You have to change your paradigm on how you look at this. If you had a pool of available candidates that were healthy and there was one that had a history of medical issues. Would you pass over the healthy ones with no issues? I know you want to serve but the Army really doesn't accept those with any medical issues. Maybe the National Guard but even then I have never seen anyone get a medical discharge come back in.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2020 12:42 AM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Sep 2020 00:42:04 -0400

Seth,
I was medically retired from the USMC as a Corporal and placed on the Temporary Disability Retired List (TDRL). Once I fully recovered I applied to OCS with a R3 code. I was accepted back on active duty, went to OCS and still serve today. At no point did I have to pay anything back. However, I had to contact the VA and stop disability payments. Hope this helps and good luck.