The DD 2860 form, officially titled "Claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC)," is a crucial document for military retirees seeking to establish their eligibility for combat-related special compensation. This form enables veterans to submit a claim through the appropriate uniformed service, allowing for a review to determine eligibility, benefit amounts, and payment effective dates based on the stated combat-related injuries. Completing this form accurately and providing the necessary documentation is essential for retirees to potentially receive due compensation. For detailed instructions on how to fill out the form and to initiate your claim, click the button below.
For military retirees seeking recognition and compensation for injuries sustained in the line of duty, navigating the intricacies of the DD Form 2860, or the Claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), can be a pivotal step in their journey. This form serves as a gateway for veterans to assert their eligibility for benefits specifically designed for combat-related injuries, distinguishing it from other veterans’ benefits. Authorized by 10 U.S. Code Section 1413a and several other regulatory bodies, the DD Form 2860 facilitates a comprehensive review process to assess a retiree’s eligibility, the extent of benefits, and the effective dates of payment. This formidable document requires meticulous attention to detail, compelling veterans to furnish exhaustive information about their military service, combat-related injuries, and the consequential disabilities they claim for compensation. Additionally, the inclusion of a privacy act statement underscores the form’s compliance with data protection norms, suggesting the sensitivity and importance of the information being handled. Interestingly, the form also offers guidance on documentation and submission processes, indicating a structured approach to aid applicants. As a conduit for potentially life-altering benefits, the efficient and accurate completion of the DD Form 2860 is a task of great significance for veterans, promising a measure of support and recognition for their sacrifices made in combat.
CLAIM FOR COMBAT-RELATED SPECIAL COMPENSATION (CRSC)
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
AUTHORITY: 10 U.S. Code Section 1413a; DoD Financial Management Regulation, Volume 7B Chapter 63; and E.O. 9397 (SSN).
PRINCIPAL PURPOSE(S): Used by a military retiree to submit a claim through the appropriate uniformed service for Combat- Related Special Compensation (CRSC). Claim is reviewed to determine eligibility for benefits, and determine the amount and effective dates of payment.
ROUTINE USE(S): Information is provided to individuals authorized to receive retired and annuitant payments on behalf of retirees or annuitants.
DISCLOSURE: Voluntary; however, failure to provide any required information may result in member not being considered eligible for CRSC.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
Complete this form carefully and accurately.
To submit a valid claim you must complete the ENTIRE FORM and SIGN IT IN SECTION VI (bottom of Page 3). Unsigned claim
forms will not be processed.
Complete and submit this form (pages 1 - 3 ONLY) to apply for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC). Print, type, or use a computer and provide the best information available. If you do not know the answer, enter "Don't Know" or "DK". Do not leave any
item blank. You must identify the disabilities that you are claiming.
It is your responsibility to provide supporting documents from personal or government records, so make sure you supply all documentation necessary to verify this claim.
If you need assistance completing this form, consult with the agency from which you retired (or another agency, as appropriate).
Army: http://www.crsc.army.mil/
Navy & Marine Corps: http://www.hq.navy.mil/corb/crscb/combatrelated.htm
Air Force: http://ask.afpc.randolph.af.mil
DoD: http://www.defenselink.mil/prhome/crsc.html
DFAS: http://www.dod.mil/dfas/retiredpay/combat-relatedspecialcompensationcrsc.html
Coast Guard: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cgpc/adm/adm1.htm
Sign and date your claim. Enclose with your claim a clean legible copy of any supporting documents listed on page 3. Mail your claim to the address listed below for the Uniformed Service from which you retired.
DO NOT SEND ANY ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS, AS THEY WILL NOT BE RETURNED.
Send your claim to the address listed below for the Uniformed Service from which you retired.
ARMY:
COAST GUARD:
Department of the Army
Commander (PSC-PSD-de)
Army Human Resources Command
Personnel Service Center
ATTN: AHRC-PDP-V
U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7200
1600 Spearhead Division Avenue, Dept. 480
4200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 1100
Fort Knox, KY 40122
Arlington, VA 20598-7200
eFAX 1-502-613-9550
NAVY AND MARINE CORPS:
NOAA CORPS:
Secretary of the Navy
Director, Commissioned Personnel Center
Council of Review Boards
8403 Colesville Road, Suite 500
ATTN: Combat Related Special Compensation Branch
Silver Spring, MD 20910-6333
720 Kennon Street SE, Suite 309
Washington Navy Yard, DC 20374-5023
AIR FORCE:
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE:
United States Air Force
United States Public Health Service
Disability Division (CRSC)
Compensation Branch
HQ AFPC/DPPDC
Program Support Center, ESS
550 C Street West, Suite 6
5600 Fishers Lane, Room 4-50
Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4708
Rockville, MD 20857-0001
DD FORM 2860, JUL 2011
PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.
General Purpose Sheet
DO NOT MAIL THIS PAGE.
Adobe Designer 8.0
SECTION I - PERSONAL INFORMATION
1. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)
7. MAILING ADDRESS
a. STREET (Include apartment number or P.O. Box)
2. SOCIAL SECURITY OR
3. RETIRED RANK/RATE
EMPLOYEE ID NUMBER
4. DATE OF BIRTH (YYYYMMDD)
5. TELEPHONE (Include area code)
b. CITY
c. STATE
6. E-MAIL ADDRESS
d. ZIP CODE
SECTION II - PRELIMINARY REQUIREMENTS
8. MARK (X) NEXT TO THE APPROPRIATE ANSWER FOR EACH QUESTION.
QUALIFICATION BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2008
a. Were you entitled to retired pay for regular service, having completed at least 20 years of service prior to
YES
NO
January 1, 2008?
OR
b. Were you entitled to retired pay for reserve service, having completed at least 20 years of combined active
and reserve service and having reached age 60 prior to January 1, 2008?
c. Were you entitled to retired pay for reserve service under the Reserve TERA program having completed at
least 15 but less than 20 years of combined active and reserve service and having reached age 60 prior to
NOTE: You must provide proof of the retirement authority by attaching a copy of your Retirement Orders and/
or a copy of your 15 year letter. Evidence must clearly state that you were a reservist and you retired under
Section 12731a of title 10, United States Code.
QUALIFICATION ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2008
d. Are you currently entitled to military retired pay for any reason, other than early reserve retirement for
physical disabilities not incurred in line of duty (i.e., other than section 12731b of title 10, United States
Code?
NOTE: If you answered NO to all questions a through d above, you are not eligible for CRSC.
SECTION III - SERVICE HISTORY
You must provide copies of evidence needed to verify this information (i.e., DD214's, awards, evaluations, etc.).
9.FROM WHICH SERVICE DID YOU RETIRE? Provide a copy of your retirement orders or "retirement" DD214. To expedite this claim it is important that you mail your claim to the service you retired from.
ARMY
NAVY/USMC
AIR FORCE
NOAA CORPS
COAST GUARD
PUBLIC HEALTH
10.DID YOU SERVE IN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING WARS OR COMBAT OPERATIONS? (X all that apply) (Provide a copy of a DD214/award citation or any other evidence that verifies ANY combat service.)
WWI
WWII
KOREAN
WAR
VIETNAM
GULF WAR
OIF/OEF
OTHER (e.g., a SF Ops mission - explain where and when and provide evidence.)
11. WERE YOU EVER A PRISONER OF WAR (POW)?
If YES, indicate Where/When/How long (Provide any official evidence available):
Page 1
NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)
SOCIAL SECURITY OR EMPLOYEE ID NUMBER
NOTE: To ensure the review of all of your requested disabilities, limit ONE disability for each page. You are authorized to make additional copies of this page for any additional disabilities. You may list any secondary conditions that are connected to a disability on the bottom of the sheet that it has been connected to. In order to award any disability as secondary we must have a copy of the evidence from VA or from your medical records which clearly states that the condition is the result of the primary condition you are requesting. Good evidence could include a VA rating decision that clearly states (for example), "hypertension is secondary to diabetes."
It is your responsibility to supply any evidence necessary to verify this disability is combat-related.
SECTION IV - REQUEST FOR COMBAT-RELATEDNESS DETERMINATION
12. VA FILE NUMBER (If known)
13. DISABILITY DESCRIPTION
a. TITLE OF DISABILITY (As written on the VA rating decision.)
b. BODY PART AFFECTED. (e.g., right knee)
c. VA DISABILITY CODE (If known)
d. DATE AWARDED BY VA
e. INITIAL RATING % BY THE VA
f. CURRENT RATING % BY
(YYYYMMDD)
THE VA
g. COMBAT-RELATED CODE (Mark (X) the code that best describes what caused the disability.) (See Appendix A for code descriptions.)
PH
AC
HS
SW
IN
AO
RE
GW or MG
PURPLE
ARMED
HAZARDOUS
SIMULATING
INSTRUMENT
AGENT
RADIATION
GULF WAR or
HEART
CONFLICT
SERVICE
OF WAR
ORANGE
MUSTARD GAS
h. UNIT OF ASSIGNMENT WHEN INJURED
i. LOCATION/AREA OF ASSIGNMENT WHEN INJURED
j.IN YOUR OWN WORDS, DESCRIBE THE EVENTS SURROUNDING THE DISABILITY AND HOW IT MEETS THE GUIDELINES OF COMBAT- RELATED.
k. DID YOU RECEIVE A PURPLE HEART (PH) FOR THIS INJURY? If YES, attach documentation to verify that you were awarded a PH and any evidence that proves what occurred or what body part was injured.
NOTE: Proof of being awarded a PH does not always allow us to award a disability as PH. We need to know what the PH was awarded for. For example, send the medevac report and DD214.
l.DID VA EVER DOCUMENT THAT THIS CONDITION CAUSED SECONDARY DISABILITIES? If YES, you must provide evidence from VA or your medical records which state that the conditions listed in item 13.m., below, are indeed caused by the primary condition listed above. We cannot award any condition as secondary without evidence to support the claim. Attach the VA rating decision for all secondary conditions.
NOTE: If YES, list all secondary conditions in item 13.m., below.
N/A
m. VA DETERMINED THAT THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS ARE SECONDARY CONDITIONS TO THE PRIMARY DISABILITY (Listed in item 13.a., above).
(1)DISABILITY CODE
(2) DESCRIPTION
(3)% AWARDED BY VA
(4)DATE AWARDED (YYYYMMDD)
Page 2 - Sheet
of
SECTION V - REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
14.In order to process your claim the following records (if applicable) must be submitted with this claim. Do not send ANY original documents - COPIES only!
a.All DD214's and DD215's (especially if for retirement or showing combat ribbons).
b.Retirement orders and supporting documents.
c.Reserve Retirement point computation including any 15-year or 20-year letter (if applicable).
d.Copies of ALL VA Rating Decisions, letters, and code sheets (current and prior). Do NOT remove any pages. All VA documents discussing changes in benefits including Special Monthly Compensation (SCM) and/or Individual Unemployability (IU).
e.Medical records or notes that verify how the injury/disability occurred. (Do NOT send EKGs, lab slips, CDs, diskettes or other electronic media.)
f.Physical Evaluation Board (MEB-PEB) results and/or summaries.
g.Any evidence which can be used to verify the events or circumstances.
SECTION VI - CERTIFICATION AND WAIVER OF CONCURRENT RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY PAYMENTS (CRDP)
15.Complete this section to enable the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) or the applicable pay center for non-DoD retirees to make any CRSC payments you qualify to receive.
a.I understand that if I am eligible for both Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP) under 10 U.S.C., section
1414 and Special Compensation for Certain Combat-Related Disabled Uniformed Service Retirees under 10 U.S.C., section 1413a (CRSC), I may not receive both, but must elect which to receive.
b.I understand that if my election results in any retroactive payments, any previously paid amounts of CRDP, SCSD, or CRSC for that period of time will be deducted from any amount due for that period.
c.Under penalties of perjury, the information provided above is true to the best of my knowledge and belief and provided with the full knowledge of the penalties for making false statements (18 U.S.C. 287 and 1001 provide for a penalty of not more than $10,000 fine, or 5 years in prison, or both; 31 U.S.C. 3279 provides civil penalties; and 31 U.S.C. 3802 provides administrative penalties).
d.I hereby understand that payments will be deposited to my account of record for Uniformed Services retired pay if I amcurrently receiving such payments. Otherwise, they will be made to the account of record for my VA disability compensation. After payments begin, I must advise DFAS or the applicable non-DoD pay center of any changes to my account.
e. SIGNATURE
f. DATE SIGNED (YYYYMMDD)
Page 3
APPENDIX A - COMBAT-RELATED CODES
PURPLE HEART (PH) - The disability resulted from an injury for which you were awarded the Purple Heart. Evidence should clearly show that the injury was associated with an incident involving armed conflict, such as shrapnel wounds due to a mortar attack. Documentation must include a copy of the Purple Heart citation and DD Form 214 reflecting the award and injury, or the Purple Heart citation, and excerpts from the Service Medical Record that correspond to the date and document the treatment of the Purple Heart injury.
DIRECT RESULT OF ARMED CONFLICT (AC) - The disability was incurred in the line of duty as a direct result of armed conflict. The fact that a member incurred the disability during a period of war or an area of armed conflict or while participating in combat operations is not sufficient by itself to support a combat-related determination. There must be a definite, documented, causal relationship between the armed conflict and the resulting disability. Armed conflict includes a war, expedition, occupation of an area or territory, battle, skirmish, raid, invasion, rebellion, insurrection, guerrilla action, riot, or any other action in which Service members are engaged with a hostile or belligerent nation, faction, force, or terrorists. Armed conflict may also include such situations as incidents involving a member whileinterned as a prisoner of war or while detained against his or her will in custody of a hostile or belligerent force or while escaping or attempting to escape from such confinement, prisoner of war, or detained status.
IN THE PERFORMANCE OF DUTY UNDER CONDITIONS SIMULATING WAR (SW). - The disability was incurred in the line of duty as a result of simulating armed conflict. The fact that a member incurred the disability during a period of simulating war or in an area of simulated armed conflict or while participating in simulated combat operations is not sufficient by itself to support a combat-related determination. There must be a definite, documented, causal relationship between the simulated armed conflict and the resulting disability. In general, this covers disabilities resulting from simulated combat activity during military training, such as war games, practice alerts, tactical exercises, airborne operations, grenade and live fire weapons practice, bayonet training, hand-to-hand combat training, rappelling, and negotiation of combat confidence and obstacle courses while in full combat gear. Physical training activities such as calisthenics and jogging or formation running and supervised sports activities are not included.
WHILE ENGAGED IN HAZARDOUS SERVICE (HS) - The disability was incurred during performance of duties that present a higher degree of danger to Service personnel due to the level of exposure to actual or simulated armed conflict. The fact that a member incurred the disability during a period of hazardous service is not sufficient by itself to support a combat-related determination. There must be a definite, documented, causal relationship between the hazardous service and the resulting disability. Such service includes, but is not limited to, aerial flight, parachute duty, demolition duty, experimental stress duty, diving duty, and rescue missions.
INSTRUMENTALITY OF WAR (IN) - The disability was incurred in the line of duty as a result of an instrumentality of war. An instrumentality of war is a vehicle, vessel, or device designed primarily for Military Service and intended for use in such Service at the time of the occurrence or injury. Incurrence during an actual period of war is not required; however, there must be a direct, documented, causalrelationship between the instrumentality of war and the resulting disability. The disability must be incurred incident to a hazard or risk of service and be caused by the device itself. Instrumentalities not designed primarily for Military Service if use of, or occurrence involving, such instrumentality subjects the individual to a hazard peculiar to Military Service, are included. Such use or occurrence differs from the use or occurrence under similar circumstances in civilian pursuits. An example of this would be injuries sustained while engaging in pugil stick training using a broomstick, where the broomstick replaces the weapon and causes the injury. A determination that a disability is the result of an instrumentality of war may be made if the disability was incurred in any period of service as a result of such diverse causes as wounds caused by a military weapon, accidents involving a military combat vehicle, injury or sickness caused by fumes, gases, or explosion of military ordnance, vehicles, or material. For example, if a member is on a field exercise and is engaged in sporting activity and falls and strikes an armored vehicle, the injury will not be considered to result from the instrumentality of war (armored vehicle) because it was the sporting activity that was the cause of the injury, not the vehicle. On the other hand, if the individual was engaged in the same sporting activity and the armored vehicle struck the member, the injury would be considered the result of an instrumentality of war.
AGENT ORANGE (AO) - The disability was incurred as a result of Agent Orange exposure (herbicides). For these disabilities to be considered combat related, they must be specifically granted by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as presumptive to Agent Orange exposure (herbicides). For consideration, the initial VA Rating Decision for the claimed disability must show not just Service connection, but the specific causes of the condition; such as, member has Diabetes due to Agent Orange exposure (herbicides). In addition, for secondary conditions to be granted as combat related, they must be specifically granted by the VA as secondary to the Agent Orangecondition; such as, member's Hypertension is secondary to Agent Orange Diabetes. If the conditions were diagnosed after Vietnam serviceand prior to retirement, evidence must show the date of diagnosis and proof of Vietnam service. Proof of Vietnam service can include but is not limited to service medical records, evaluations, decoration citations, travel vouchers or PCS orders.
RADIATION EXPOSURE (RE) - The disability was incurred as a result of combat-related radiation exposure. Combat-related radiation exposure includes documented, onsite participation in a test involving the atmospheric detonation of a nuclear device; the occupation of Hiroshima or Nagasaki, Japan, by the United States forces during the period beginning on August 6, 1945, and ending on July 1, 1946; internment as a prisoner of war in Japan during World War II; or service in Paducah, Kentucky, Portsmouth, Ohio; or the area identified as K25 at Oak Ridge, Tennessee for at least 250 days before February 1, 1992.
GULF WAR (GW), MUSTARD GAS OR LEWISITE (MG) - These codes relate to disabilities awarded by the VA on the basis of presumption relating to service in the Persian Gulf War or exposure to Mustard Gas or Lewisite, even though there is no direct connection and the disability did not occur immediately. For consideration, the initial VA Rating Decision for the claimed disability must show notjust Service connection, but the specific cause of the condition, such as, member has developed Fibromyalgia from service in the Persian Gulf War. Documentation should also describe the place, period, and conditions of exposure. In addition, for secondary conditions to be granted as combat-related, they must be specifically granted by the VA as secondary to the condition developed from service in the Persian Gulf War or exposure to Mustard Gas or Lewisite; such as, member's Scars are secondary to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder from exposure to Mustard Gas.
Appendix A
Once you start filling out the DD 2860 form for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), you're engaging in a process to have your claim reviewed for eligibility and to establish the amount and dates of any payments you might receive. This assistance provides retired military personnel the opportunity to apply for compensation linked to combat-related injuries. Accuracy and thoroughness are crucial in completing this form, as omitted information can delay or impact the determination process. Here's how to fill out the form step by step:
After submitting your form, the relevant service branch will review your claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation. This review will determine your eligibility and, if applicable, calculate the compensation amount and effective dates. Remember, the completeness and accuracy of your form and supporting documents can significantly impact the processing time and outcome of your claim.
What is the DD Form 2860 and its purpose?
The DD Form 2860, or the Claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), is a document used by military retirees to apply for CRSC. This form enables retired service members to submit a claim through their respective uniformed service to determine their eligibility for benefits based on combat-related disabilities. It reviews the eligibility for benefits, the amount, and the effective dates of payment.
Who is eligible to fill out the DD Form 2860?
Eligibility to fill out the DD Form 2860 extends to military retirees who are seeking Combat-Related Special Compensation due to injuries or conditions that are directly related to combat. This includes both regular retirees and those from the reserves who have completed the necessary years of service and have combat-related disabilities recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
How can one apply for CRSC using the DD Form 2860?
To apply for CRSC using the DD Form 2860, retirees must fill out the form in its entirety, including personal information, service history, disability description, and required documentation. All sections must be completed accurately, and the form must be signed in Section VI. Supporting documents, such as DD214, medical records, and VA rating decisions, should be included. The completed form and documents must then be mailed to the appropriate address for the retiree’s branch of service.
What documentation is required when submitting the DD Form 2860?
When submitting the DD Form 2860, retirees are required to include copies of all DD214's and DD215's (if applicable), retirement orders, Reserve Retirement point computations, all VA Rating Decisions, medical records related to combat injuries, and any other evidence verifying the events or circumstances leading to the disability. Original documents should not be sent as they will not be returned.
What happens after submitting the DD Form 2860?
After submitting the DD Form 2860, the claim will be reviewed by the appropriate uniformed service to determine the retiree’s eligibility for CRSC. This process involves verifying the combat-related nature of the claimed disabilities, the retiree’s service history, and the supporting documentation provided. If approved, the retiree will be notified of the decision, the awarded compensation amount, and instructions for receiving payments.
Can one receive both CRSC and VA disability compensation?
Yes, retirees can receive both CRSC and VA disability compensation. However, CRSC is designed to restore the reduction in military retirement pay for those receiving VA disability compensation. It's important for retirees to understand that CRSC payments are tax-exempt and are intended for combat-related injuries.
Is it necessary to have a VA disability rating to apply for CRSC?
Yes, having a VA disability rating is crucial for applying for CRSC because the form requires information on the VA file number, disability description, ratings awarded by the VA, and evidence that a condition is combat-related. The presence of a VA disability rating plays a significant role in establishing the combat-relatedness of an injury or condition.
What if part of the requested information on the DD Form 2860 is unknown?
If certain details requested on the DD Form 2860 are unknown, applicants are advised to enter "Don't Know" or "DK" in the fields where applicable. It’s important to provide as much information as possible and supplement the application with ample supporting documentation to avoid delays in the review process.
How can applicants get help filling out the DD Form 2860?
Applicants seeking assistance with filling out the DD Form 2860 can consult with the agency from which they retired or another appropriate agency. The form also lists contact information and websites for Army, Navy & Marine Corps, Air Force, DoD, DFAS, and Coast Guard CRSC points of contact, where personalized help and guidance can be obtained.
Can a retiree appeal the decision if the CRSC claim is denied?
If a CRSC claim is denied, retirees have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process typically involves submitting a written request for reconsideration and providing additional evidence or clarification that supports the combat-related nature of their disabilities. Guidance on the appeals process can be obtained from the retiree’s respective service department.
Filling out the DD 2860 form for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) can be tricky, and several common mistakes can potentially delay or affect the outcome of a claim. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure that the application process goes smoothly.
One of the first errors occurs when applicants leave sections of the form blank. The instructions clearly state that no item should be left blank; if an answer is unknown, "Don't Know" or "DK" should be entered instead. This mistake may seem minor, but it can lead to unnecessary delays in processing the claim.
Another frequent oversight involves the failure to sign the form in Section VI. This oversight is critical, as an unsigned claim form will not be processed. Ensuring that the form is signed is a simple but essential step in the application process.
Many applicants also falter by not providing enough detail in Section III and IV, where service history and requests for combat-relatedness determination are made, respectively. Complete and accurate descriptions, including evidence of the service and combat-related incidents, are vital for the claim to be properly evaluated.
A common mistake is not attaching supporting documentation or providing insufficient evidence to support the claim. As stated in Section V, it is crucial to include all relevant records such as DD214's, retirement orders, VA Rating Decisions, and medical records. Sending comprehensive documentation helps substantiate the claim.
Some individuals incorrectly believe that obtaining a Purple Heart automatically qualifies their disabilities as combat-related. While a Purple Heart is significant, the CRSC review process requires detailed evidence on how each disability is combat-related. This misunderstanding can lead to unfounded assumptions about eligibility for CRSC.
There's also confusion regarding the address to which the claim should be mailed. Each uniformed service has its own submission address listed at the end of the instructions. Failure to mail the claim to the correct service-specific address can lead to delays or the claim not being reviewed promptly.
Lastly, applicants sometimes fail to realize the significance of accurately filling out the Preliminary Requirements in Section II. Clarifying the type of retirement and ensuring eligibility before applying can save time and effort. This includes understanding the distinct criteria for retirees before and after January 1, 2008.
Being aware of these common mistakes and taking steps to avoid them can make the CRSC application process more efficient and increase the chances of a favorable outcome.
When applying for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) with the DD 2860 form, it's crucial to understand that this process might involve submitting additional forms and documents. These materials support the claim and ensure the review board has a comprehensive understanding of each case. Below is a list of common documents and forms that are often used alongside the DD 2860 form:
Compiling and submitting these documents with the DD 2860 form is a critical step in the claim process for Combat-Related Special Compensation. Each piece of evidence helps build a comprehensive case for the review board, ensuring that all relevant details are considered. It's advisable to consult with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or other experts during this process to ensure the application is as strong as possible.
The DD 2860 form shares similarities with the VA Form 21-526EZ, "Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits." Both forms are used by veterans to apply for benefits due to disabilities. While the DD 2860 is specific to claims for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), highlighting combat-related injuries, the 21-526EZ is broader, covering any service-connected disabilities. Importantly, both require detailed information about the veteran's service and medical evidence to support the claim.
The Standard Form 180 (SF-180), "Request Pertaining to Military Records," is another document related to the DD 2860. The SF-180 is used to request service records, which can be critical for supporting a CRSC claim. Both forms necessitate information regarding military service, but for different purposes: the SF-180 to obtain records and the DD 2860 to apply for compensation based on those records.
VA Form 22-1990, "Application for VA Education Benefits," though designed for a different type of benefit, shares the feature of applying for veteran benefits with the DD 2860 form. Both forms cater to veterans seeking benefits owed due to their service, yet they serve different needs—one for educational purposes and the other for compensation related to combat injuries.
The DD Form 214, "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," is closely related to the DD 2860, as it is often required to accompany a CRSC claim. The DD 214 provides proof of military service, including details on the nature of discharge, which is critical for verifying eligibility for the benefits claimed on the DD 2860 form.
The VA Form 21-686c, "Declaration of Status of Dependents," parallels the DD 2860 in its use for adjusting veterans' benefits based on family circumstances. While the DD 2860 form is used by veterans to claim benefits for combat-related injuries, the 21-686c can impact the amount of compensation received by adjusting for dependents, showcasing the veterans' family-focused aspect of benefits administration.
The VA Form 10-10EZ, "Application for Health Benefits," like the DD 2860, is part of the suite of forms used by veterans to access benefits. Where the DD 2860 form is specific to combat-related special compensation, the 10-10EZ is for enrolling in the VA healthcare system. Both are critical for veterans' welfare, emphasizing different aspects of their well-being: one for financial compensation and the other for healthcare services.
VA Form 21-8940, "Veteran’s Application for Increased Compensation Based on Unemployability," is akin to the DD 2860 in that it seeks to increase a veteran's benefits based on specific criteria. The 21-8940 focuses on disability rendering a veteran unable to maintain substantial gainful employment, whereas the DD 2860 targets combat-related conditions specifically. Both forms recognize the varying impacts of service on a veteran's life post-service.
The Retirement Services Program application forms used across different branches of the military resemble the DD 2860 in their purpose to process benefits related to military service. Whether it's applying for retirement pay or combat-related special compensation, these forms play essential roles in transitioning from active service to veteran status, ensuring that individuals receive the benefits they've earned.
Lastly, the PHS-731, "International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis," while not directly related to compensation or veteran status, shares the feature of being a document that veterans may need to manage based on their service. Service members deployed overseas might need to prove vaccination upon return, similar to how veterans use the DD 2860 to claim specific benefits resulting from their service. Both forms illustrate the administrative tasks associated with military service and its aftermath.
Filling out the DD 2860 form, the Claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), is an essential process for military retirees seeking to establish or modify their eligibility for benefits due to combat-related injuries. The form plays a critical role in determining eligibility for benefits and calculating the amount and effective dates of payment. Throughout this process, it's crucial to pay attention to detail and follow instructions closely. To assist, here are ten do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when completing this important document.
Do:
Don’t:
When it comes to the DD Form 2860, commonly known as the Claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), there are a number of misconceptions that can lead to confusion and potential delays in processing. Understanding the facts behind these misconceptions is critical for military retirees seeking to submit their claims accurately and efficiently.
Fact: CRSC is available only to those who meet specific eligibility criteria, including having a combat-related disability that has been rated by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Fact: CRSC is intended to compensate for combat-related disabilities and is separate from VA disability compensation. Eligible retirees can receive CRSC in addition to their VA benefits.
Fact: An unsigned DD Form 2860 will not be processed. The claimant must sign and date the form in Section VI for it to be considered valid.
Fact: The instructions specifically state to send only copies of documents. Originals are not required and will not be returned.
Fact: As of the last update, the form must be mailed to the appropriate uniformed service address listed on the form. There is no provision for email submission in the instructions.
Fact: Only injuries that are combat-related, as defined in Appendix A of the form, qualify for CRSC. This includes injuries from armed conflict, hazardous service, an instrumentality of war, and certain exposures.
Fact: While being awarded a Purple Heart can support a claim for CRSC, it is not a required criterion for eligibility.
Fact: Eligibility for CRSC is not limited by the period of service or retirement date but is based on the nature of the disability and its connection to combat.
Fact: While completing the entire form is critical, if certain information isn't known or applicable, claimants can mark "Don't Know" or "DK" instead of leaving an item blank.
Fact: CRSC requires a separate application and review process. Even with a combat-related injury, retirees must actively apply and provide sufficient documentation to qualify for CRSC benefits.
Understanding these facts ensures that applicants provide the correct information and documentation when applying for CRSC, helping to streamline the process and improve the chances of a favorable outcome.
Filling out the DD 2860 form, which is the Claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), is a crucial step for military retirees seeking to establish eligibility for benefits due to combat-related injuries. Understanding the key components and requirements of this form can significantly influence the approval process of a claim. Here are four key takeaways regarding the completion and use of the DD 2860 form:
Completion and submission of the DD 2860 form are the first steps toward accessing combat-related special compensation. Applicants benefit from consulting with the agency from which they retired to ensure that their claim is as complete and accurate as possible. This meticulous approach, together with the provision of comprehensive supporting documentation, is fundamental to establishing eligibility and receiving compensation for combat-related injuries.
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