Pension Calculator

High-3 (legacy) retired pay = 2.5% x years of service x the average of your highest 36 months of basic pay, so 20 years is 50% of your High-3 base. BRS uses a 2.0% multiplier, so 20 years is about 40%, but BRS adds up to 5% TSP matching during service plus continuation pay. Only basic pay counts; BAH and BAS are excluded from the retirement calculation. Run the calculator with your years and pay to compare both.

It is a tradeoff. High-3 gives a larger pension (2.5% multiplier) but pays nothing if you separate before 20 years. BRS gives a smaller pension (2.0% multiplier) but adds portable TSP matching you keep even if you leave early, plus continuation pay around the mid-career mark. If you are likely to serve a full 20+ years, the larger High-3 pension is worth more; if not, BRS's portability matters. Model both with your numbers in the calculator.

Generally retired pay is offset dollar-for-dollar by VA compensation, but two programs restore it. CRDP (Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay) gives full concurrent receipt to retirees with 20+ years AND a 50%+ VA rating. CRSC (Combat-Related Special Compensation) pays separately for combat-related disabilities. The VA portion is always tax-free. Eligibility thresholds matter, so verify which applies to you.

Correct. The retirement formula uses only basic pay (the High-3 average of your highest 36 months). Allowances like BAH and BAS, and most special pays, are excluded. This is why your retired pay is noticeably less than your final total take-home, which included tax-free allowances. The calculator uses base pay only, matching the official formula.

Retired pay receives the annual COLA tied to CPI, which is a different mechanism (and usually a different percentage) from the active-duty pay raise. REDUX retirees receive CPI minus 1% until an age-62 catch-up that restores the full amount. Most current retirees are on High-3 or BRS, not REDUX. The COLA is automatic; you do not file anything.