Will my bonus for the Reserves be recouped if I received 80% disability from the VA due to my active duty time?

2019-05-29T06:05:27-04:00

I am a 92Y and received an enlisted affiliation bonus to transfer over to the reserves from active duty. I have been in the reserves for a year but I just received a letter from the VA stating I have 80% disability due to my active duty time. If I choose to get out for medical reasons, will I have to go through medboard? Most importantly, will I have to pay back the bonus. It was a lump sum for 6 years and I already received it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2019 8:42 AM

2019-05-29T08:42:43-04:00

That's a very specific question. I'm not an RC expert, but I do not that bonuses aren't recouped for medical, and that you can be in the reserves with a VA disability rating.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2019 10:03 AM

2019-05-29T10:03:40-04:00

Your bonus will not be recouped if you are receiving VA Disability. I received 70% and had none recouped from my EAB, although I did get taken for a ride by taxes. The only way you would need to pay back your bonus would be if you voluntarily terminated your contract early or you were discharged under conditions other than honorable. Also, repayment COULD occur if you act against terms of your contract, for example, if you go Warrant or Green to Gold when/if your contract stipulates you are to be an enlisted soldier.

Response by SSG Donna Carrigan made May 29 at 2019 9:14 PM

2019-05-29T21:14:00-04:00

You can go to any DAV office and one of the reps should be able to answer that for you. There should be one in your area, as they are all over the place. If not them then try for American Legion