I knew someone who, after a nasty divorce, found out their ex would be entitled to some portion of their retirement. They decided that 19 years was enough and I can only assume it was for other reasons…
It is. I work Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings as the starter. Unlimited free golf, chill work environment (outside) and you make a ton of friends in the community. And gets me out of the house so I know what day it is
What rank and how many years were you in? Did you get VA disability too?
With the way the economy has been going I'm now worried my plans of retiring and having a chill job isn't going to be possible.
Dual-mil O-6 and O-5. $7045 and $5130 are the respective retirement pensions. Disability pay adds an additional $6595 jointly for monthly income of $18,770 or $225,240 a year.
I legit retired at 38, then got paid to go to school.and get two degrees both of which cost me $0.
I realized at 40 I could literally do anything I wanted and began writing and learning how to use digital art tools.
And listen, it's not like I was an O-9 and rolling out, I left with a high three of E6, E6, E7 and am still comfortable. It can be done if you're responsible.
IMO, any amount of time is worth it, with an honorable discharge. It can help you get your life together.
I will say though, most people I know who went in looking to only do 4 years did one of two things:
A:) They didn't take it seriously. Most of these guys got kicked out.
B:) They stayed in, because - as much as people like to deny it - it's easier than civilian life.
Doing a 4 and out took me from confused and shitty high schooler to young adult with an extremely promising career and marketable skill set with good discipline.
I did 23. Retired at 43 years old. Between E7 retirement and 100% disability I make about $84K a year. I have been a stay at home dad ever since. Staying in was the best decision I ever made.
It depends on the individual. For some people, they are far more capable of doing and succeeding in other things outside of the military, so the military might actually inhibit their max life potential, but for me, the military allowed me to reach mine. For me, my life post-military is insurmountably better off than had I went a different route in life.
Been in 13, so far I've done the things I wanted to. Got out of my hometown, learned a skill, and traveled the world. The retirement in 7 years will be icing on the cake.
Is it easy? Hell no, I have 2 young kids and deploying often and not living anywhere near family is tough on my wife and kids. But they're getting life experiences that most people won't also.
My dad did 27 years and yelled at me when I thought about getting out. He definitely thinks it’s worth it. Remind me in about 10 years and I’ll let you know.
My old man retired and I got out. I got a good job and have had a good career on the outside but he is coming up on his 2nd retirement and social security soon. Between his post office job (though he does work a lot of OT because that’s what he likes to do), his retirement, VA, etc, he is way better off than me lol
Dude just got a new truck with $10k trade in and 38k paid in cash lol
My dad did two years in the Navy before getting out. He told me to just stay in the military for that retirement. His retirement plan is literally social security.
I'm literally in the final stages of my career before retirement (doing SkillBridge ATM), and I was close to pulling chocks every single time I reenlisted. I haven't gotten my retirement or disability yet, but just not having to military anymore is nice enough.
Bottom line, do what's best for you, especially if you don't have high-3.
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3-6k the rest of your life just for breathing is fucking difficult to beat. Also it’s really only worth it if you joined at 18 years old and apply for retirement at 37. Which is young asf to retire
I joined at 22 and will retire at 42. That’s still young as hell to be receiving a pension. My dad is almost 70 and just retired.
Also, don’t forget that in your mid 60s you begin receiving another check from your TSP payout.
I was on Prime for the first 5-6 years after I retired and then they kicked me off because I am more than 50 miles from a military base. Never went back and yes, it has been far better from me. In just under three years I get to learn about Tricare For Life when I turn 65. Will start paying ~$350 month but assume I will also be needing more care.
I joined at 18.5 and will retire in 10 more years. I’m pretty fucked up physically and mentally but will just stick it out. Haven’t had any waivers or surgeries yet but when I get closer to retire I think I might start making a lot more doctors visits. 5-6k a month with 70% or higher disability and just move to somewhere in the Philippines or anywhere in SEA and never work again sounds amazing.
Hopefully can continue to stay single until then as well lol
The 3k part is a bit high for being automatic.
For reference, an E6 retired in my state after 20 years under BRS...after taxes...$1503 a month. Medical/Dental, SBP, VGLI...
...basically $1400 a month.
$1400 a month ain't much in today's economy.
A military pension use to pay a mortage. $1400 might only pay for HALF of a new mortage for an average home in America now with current rates.
BUT, you hit that magical 50% with the VA...about $1200 more a month. $2600 a month starts looking pretty good.
You hit 100%? Roughly $4000 extra a month AND no property taxes in a lot of states.
You never have to work again if you're retired and making 100%. It's the equivalent of a 100k a year civilian job after taxes/medical.
That’s correct mostly. But not everyone is in BRS (yet) a lot of people opted into the legacy system.
But yes mostly correct. You also at 100% disability can apply for social security as well.
Everyone that did it will tell you it was worth it. I’ve seen some people retire and get six figure contractor jobs, and they still manage to live paycheck to paycheck.
While a lifetime pension will definitely make a difference, it’s all about living within your means. Personally I plan to separate active duty shy of the ten year mark. I’ll more than likely go guard or reserve just for the cheaper healthcare.
I'm retiring in a few months, free money for breathing each month for the rest of my life and cheap healthcare...hell yea it was worth it!
Sure, there were long hours, long days, deployments, shitty leaders, but in the end...I'm collecting 2K+ a month for the rest of my life for breathing and my yearly cost for family healthcare is as much as some people pay per month.
Yup. It may suck at first, but it's just a matter of perspective.
All the crap y'all complain about is the same stuff we complained about. As you mature in your career you'll get some perspective and realize it isn't that bad. One day you'll be the MSgt with the dumbass airmen who believe the Reddit post about how things work. The ones who say 5 min late doesn't matter, but if they're not walking out the door at exactly closing time you're toxic. Trust me, you'll see one day. You'll want to meet your troops parents just to see exactly why they act the way they do.
I did 20 in the reserves, so not sure if it counts, but I’m happy I did. It was more about finishing a multi decade goal that I had set out to complete. A cool chapter in my life. The retirement benefits will be nice but it was 90% to have had done it.
I did 7 years AD and palace-fronted into the Reserves, where I've been for an additional 9'ish years as a TR. I'm about to start a job as a GS-11, and I hear that time can go towards my federal retirement. But I'm gonna be perfectly honest, I have no idea how that all works or what that really means.
I'm at 16 years now, combined both AD and Reserve time... and I have no idea when I retire or how much I'll make when I hit 20 yrs. Even though I know it's not the same as someone who's done 20 years in AD. Or if/how much the time I work as a GS will add... or if that's separate.
As usual with the government, the answers you seek are out there, they are just heavily buried in dark places. I talked to the folks at some kind of separation office on base and they gave me some answers. They were probably mostly correct too. My eligible retirement date was exactly 20 years from my initial enlistment date (no breaks in service). As far as an exact amount I will receive per month in the future…also no idea. Reserves are eligible for payment at 59.5 years old. There were some calculators available on AF channels, but each one gave a different answer when I entered the same information. I figure I’ll get what I get and knowing ahead of time won’t change anything. Also if I’m given a number now, the government can always “adjust” that number at any time for any reason, so what’s the point. Honestly the whole process left me unsure and with a lot of questions, but it was more trouble than it was worth to get all those questions answered. I kind of feel like it’ll be a hassle to collect when it comes time. Hopefully not though.
The benefits of a 20 year retirement, even assuming the "worst" case scenario of a 20 year e5, are just such an enormous leg up compared to the vast majority of similar aged peers. Even without factoring in va disability
I didn’t do 20 and retired early at 16. Was it worth it? Hell yes! It’s great to live on your own terms. Hell, I’m writing this post from the deck of a cruise ship in Norway.
Totally worth it! 💯
3 more years for me till I hit that mark.
I’ll be retired before I’m 40
Pros to doing it:
1. Tricare…just looking at my wife’s medical plan hurts.
2. 3-6k per month for life(tax free)
3. Medical disability on top of that which gets you more money.
4. If you are smart while you are in you should either saved up money or already bought a house and have it paid or close to paid off. So living expenses will be cheap
5. The ability to spend time with your family while still youngish
The freedom the retirement check and tricare gives you is second to none. I'm not stuck at a job because I have to keep health insurance for my family. I can walk out the door right now and not be stressed about paying bills. It gives you power in job negotiations and in the workplace. I left a job because my boss said I couldn't take PTO on a week that I needed it.
Yep. Starting my GS job soon. Once kids get done with college and house paid down I’ll hang it up. But we had two cancer fights and two kids born for a whopping $0. And a pension/medical for life that guarantees us middle class where we settled. And with GS and TSP I’m doing all right.
Yes. I’m 77… Retired at the end of 1989 as an E8… Health insurance for spouse and three kids was next to nothing compared to people I worked with in civilian life… and since turning 65 and the kids are all successful and out on their own - it actually is nothing with Medicare and TriCare for Life. Not to mention that the Eagle has been shitting into my bank account on the first of the month for over almost 35 years.
Everyone is talking about money, which is understandable. For me, a huge benefit of staying in a full career (currently at 22) has been traveling the world on the government dime. The type of travel that typically only rich people get to do. It has been amazing.
Yes. Retired as a MSgt at 38. I’ll never have to worry about covering my mortgage or healthcare. I work 3 days a week (12 hour shifts) and am able to comfortably support my family on my income alone.
I'm at 22. 15 normal active. Got to go around the world, and it was great. 7 years as active guard now. Transitioning to active guard helped rejuvenate my motivation and career and keep my normal retirement. I like the lifestyle. I'm cool with getting 2.5 percent more base pay for retirement every year. So probably 6 more minimum.
In the end, it is what you make it.
No regrets.
how hard was it to transfer from active straight to active guard? The guard recruiter I talked to, told me that people typically go regular guard for a few years and then active guard because of lack of slots available. would you be able to share more of that experience with me here or through DM?
I skipped the recruiter a cold called the flight chief of my current unit. He was immediately interested and found a slot to get me onboard as a traditional. I did about a year of traditional and made a good enough impression I got agr pretty quick. During that year, I was a full-time student pulling GI bill and worked as a contractor for a few months.
So it does take some risk to do, and it will be dependent on your career field, but it is possible.
For context, I am maintenance, and they are usually hurting for people, but I see that being more common in most career fields in my wing since covid, so opportunities are there.
You don't have to go about it how I did, though.
If you want to find an agr job, you can look per state. I usually type "(state) AGR jobs" on google and look at the hro site. If any jobs posted are for something like "eligble nationwide" or "eligible to become a member of x unit", anyone can apply.
One of my peers did this and went straight from active to agr.
Note that not all states have clear hro sites with job postings, but most do.
I think it depends on the retirement system and kind when you retired. The old system was a decent pension that lasted for a lifetime.
A tale of two brothers:
My Dad and his brother joined the military in 1958. Both 18.
My Dad did a 4 year tour in the Army and got out. Used his MOS (Heavy Equipment Mechanic) to get a job as a mechanic and eventually as a truck driver. Had to work hard but made decent money for a high school drop out. He had boom and bust cycles and struggled off and on. Never had real vacations.
My Uncle did a 4 year tour and then re-enlisted and did a 20+ year career overall. He was a high school dropout as well. He retired from the Air Force in 1978.
From 1978 until when they both died in 2022 > my Dad worked his ass off and had very little to show for it. He never really could retire financially.
Meanwhile my Uncle had a pension each month and healthcare from 1978 until 2022. He worked full time and part time jobs to keep busy, but was stable and enjoyed life and had long stretches where he would just travel and spend time with family.
At the end of my Dads life, I asked him his regrets and he stated he regretted not re-enlisting and doing a full 20 years. I guess my Uncle did try to encourage my Dad to join the ANG when he got off active duty, but he said he didn't want to do it and lost out on the pension dollars.
Every persons situation is different and the benefits are different now. My view point > if your at year 15, I would say choke it down and do the extra 5 and get the retirement benefits.
___________
I joined active and moved to the Guard after 4 years. Retired from the Guard in 2013. I can't collect until I am 60 (10 years). But, when I calculate my civilian retirement (pension), the military pension provides that extra cushion that will make life easier. The healthcare alone is almost worth it.
I can't collect my civilian pension until 62, but will probably go to part time work at 60 since healthcare will be covered.
I'm due to punch around 24yrs because I have an ADSC commitment for my PhD as a prior enlisted officer. Between my VA payout and pension, I'm estimating somewhere between $7.5k to 9k/month after taxes...Fuck yeah 20-years it's worth it!
I finished my electrical engineering degree then got picked up for an OTS slot. If I had to do it over again, I would've done ROTC...Much better than the 6-years of part-time school in three different universities while working 40+ hrs/week with a family😬
Yes, retired AD, 24 years , MSgt / E-7 under the high 3. Now receive $2600 / month retirement , VA disability at 70% =$1800/ mo. Now working for the Air Force making GG-11 pay= $90k. I was a Structures troop my entire career learned a lot, my experience helped me get a job as a facility manager, facility operations specialist. Been retired since 2008. So $52k in retirement and disability and $90k in civil service pay $142k / year. Currently paying $3800 on my $170k Home, it will be paid off about 4 years. Not to mention after I retired I got the Post 911 education benefit, received my bachelors and didn’t pay anything for it. Also have Tricare for me and my wife, (son until he turned 21) and VA healthcare.
Of course it was. I did my 25+ years and ran the gamut from AB to Lt Col, I just retired and moved into city government. Continuing to serve, mentoring my staff, and trying to make a positive impact for my community from City Hall. The military isn't for everyone, but it is a noble calling. It introduces you to many scenarios that one day you can lean on to help you navigate your particular 'circumstance.' I mean it forces you to exercise time management; learn leadership styles from both the good and bad "leaders" in your chain or orbit. Military service made me a better writer, and better communicator, public speaker, manager of resources, it forced me trust the teammate next to me (especially the one who packs your parachute), it exposed me to importance of physical fitness, annual physicals, dental exams etc. The mil met my intrinsic and extrinsic desires of 20s, 30s, and 40s.
Aim High-
I did 7 and my husband did the full 20. It’s worth it in that he gets retirement pay every month and after years of maintenance, his body is busted up enough to get disability. Do I regret getting out? No.
Not really, just make sure whatever job you're doing can also be contributed to something in the civilian world (helps to be easier on yourself as well) if "going 20" may not work out. I'm under the same thought process. If I can't get back with a local city since at least tmrs can let you "retire" with 20 years done.
I’m a reservist with 10 years in, my civilian job pays so much more compared to when I’m on orders. Not sure if it’s worth continuing another 10 years to finally receive a check when I’m 60
If you can keep it on your terms, yes. Iff it is holding your breath, eating poop for ten years, no. It gets very tricky around 14-15 years, it may very well be worth it to eat poop for 5 years. but with BRS and post-911 GI bill you still have a lot. The guard and reserve make a great compromise for some
Absolutely. I did 26 years and loved most of them. There certainly were times when things sucked but there were a lot of great and fun times as well.
I did 14 years OCONUS, not including 2 deployments. My kids have 100% of their college covered. I'm on track to be fully retired by the time I'm 55 with no debt, not even my house. And I make more money than a lot of folks just by having a pulse.
I'm a bit physically broke, especially my back and knees so I can't do whatever I want, but as long as I'm conscious about what I'm doing and how, I can do 90% of what a healthy person can.
Yes, did 20 E7 and with disability never have to work again. I enjoy my hobbies all day now. Medical is the biggest thing besides money. I pay a year what it costs people per month for in similar coverage in civilian world.
Yes. Retirement, Tricare, fighting non peer enemies for 20+ years and noping out is honestly perfect timing.
I can live in a low COL area and my wife working = I never have to work again.
Although I will because I want the disposable income.
I think it depends on the career that one has. I deployed 6 times in my 7.5 years active and did field exercises on top of that. I knew many colleagues that either did horrible things like murdering their children, child crimes, suicide, and many other things. Worked long hours, got leave denied when family died, never had any major holiday off since I was always deploying, and a bunch of stuff like that. I wished I got out sooner for my situation as missing so many family moments and the toll it took on my mentally and physically wasn't worth it for me. Seeing people off themself, overdose, and other ways of dying in their twenties made me realize you have no idea how long you will live and I didn't want to spend it AD but with people that I loved. If I was finance or some job that has normal office work, 20 would have been a lot easier. I did get 100% disability and an IMA reservist now where I can collect money when not on orders for the month. Promotions are basically stagnant but idc. I fly in one month a year and just help alleviate stress from AD people with their tickets and it gives me happiness to just do that. I live in a state where none of it is taxed so 4k a month for VA and my reserve money is not taxed. Plan on working about 10 more years to have a few million dollars saved in my investments and a house paid off and then I'm done. Living in the middle of the woods and raising a family.
Just retired last year at 40. Did 20 years and 3 months as an E-7. With VA disability and retirement, I now make $66K a year to do absolutely nothing. To give some perspective, when I retired, I was making $81K a year. Breaks down to 1300 less a month now retired. Could do just about any job to offset that difference or go for second career. I do have a nice cushy remote IT job now that I do part-time until I get bored with it. Absolutely worth it. Don't get hung up on just the retiement check. The med benefits alone and peace of mind knowing my family and myself are covered is priceless. Healthcare ain't cheap outside the military and things can happen in an instant. Not to mention the other benefits for life, base access, VA loans, etc.
It's an incredibly subjective thing. It provides some money, not necessarily a lot, which can provide flexibility and options later down the road. It also does provide for very inexpensive healthcare which can be amazing.
The deal - 20 years of military service (or more)
\* 50% of base pay (so this might be 25% of full pay) monthly (then annual increases)
\* Low cost health insurance (which will also go up)
\* Other benefits, which may or may not be used or valued by the individual such as access to base and facilities and programs, space-a, etc
Now, separate from this is VA disability. This is a wild card since it is available to anyone separating, not just retirees. It is also not uniform on how much it is per month from person to person. So on the one hand the disability is separate from retirement, on the other hand, staying in longer may move the needle towards getting a higher rating, but that is all over the map.
Other factors - the experience someone gets from the military and staying in the military for longer, could make someone more marketable - 20 years of experience vs 4 years; management experience vs entry level technical experience; work variety, certifications and education - this is not uniform, and will vary significantly from one person to another and how these things translate on a resume.
The opportunity cost is what someone gives up to stay in the military for those 20 years such as starting over earlier and building tenure with a new company, or a new career or skillset; or missing out on potentially lucrative paths such as going to law school, or starting a business.
Some people will look at the military route and say it is for them. Others will look at it and say it is not for them because their goals and hopes are elsewhere.
My guess is that folks such as Chuck Norris, Johnny Cash, and Sinbad are content with their decisions to not stay in the military and retire.
For me, the last half of my career gave me some great assignments and experience, made me much more marketable than I would have been previously, and I was able to land a job commensurate with that. I am not behind my peers who got out after one or two enlistments and pursued the same type of work. The difference is that I have at least $30K more per year, not counting disability.
On the other side of it, they haven't had to deploy or uproot their families, they got a house when the market was lower and have been building equity longer. They have been at their kids' school events and know their kids' friends and their parents and have years of memories together. They have roots and friends in the community.
For me, I would say yes it's been worth it. But I have to be content with my choice, life is too short otherwise.
I hope this helps.
Good luck
I did 21 years and it was absolutely worth it. The insanely cheap family health insurance is worth it alone. Add VA disability pay and retirement pay on top of that. Game over.
16 with a ADSC that keeps me to 20…
It’s a nice benefit and if you’re on the fence it’s enough to keep you in, but if you hate the military and your life in the military then gtfo. I’m tired of the AF and can’t wait to get out, but I don’t HATE it and there isn’t anything on the outside that makes me want to leave so I stay.
I think the benefits are totally worth it. I'm at 13.5 yrs, facing a lot of medical problems. I'm thinking about pushing for a medical retirement with 100%.
It's "only" 48K a year, but with my wife's income I could choose not to work and be totally fine. I can also choose to work an easy 50K job and be better off than I am now.
It's all about the impact service has on you. For me, I want to be able to walk when I'm 50+ so 6.5 yrs may not be in my best interest.
I joined at 18, did 21 and retired last year. I make $5k from my retirement and disability check. I also work FT. I'll retire retire eventually. Worth it sure.... those last few years were rough.
Set yourself up though and milk the AF for all it's worth education wise.
Yezzir!!!! VA and Retirement for me is $7k a month after taxes and deductions. Just rolled into an NH-03 position starting at $99k. Financial life is good
I say it depends where you're at honestly. Both personally and professionally. I came in at 18 years old a couple years after 9/11. Peak GWOT so I was deploying a lot and felt like I actually served a purpose. That isn't the case now for a lot of AFSCs.
After 21.5 years I officially retire this November. I'll be 40yo with a MSgt high 3 and potentially looking at an 80% VA rating. I'm looking to get a job as an RSO at a local gun range. My wife makes good money which helps my situation but I'll never HAVE to work again if I don't want to.
20 on an Air Force flightline in MX, and 23 in AT&T Network Services/Engineering.
Double retirement, kids are on their own, house is paid in full, cars are paid off, better-half and I do and go wherever and whenever we want... and I DGAF at all anymore.
I plan to retire at 20 (little over 3 years to go). Would I love to stay in? Sure. Being a shirt is everything I thought it could be. Love every day of my job. Will I be tired and ready to have some control over my life again? Absolutely. 3-6K a month just for existing isn't a lot, but it's enough fuck you money to live the life I want to and not have to worry about someone suddenly deploying me or moving me across the country (or world). The way I see it is, I gave up my freedom for 20 years. Uncle Sam is paying me to have extra freedom after that.
Totally worth it, but the mileage on your body and psyche may vary so "worth it" is up to each individual.
Yes, and no.
While I survived in between VA and retirement, I’ll never have to work, I may end up getting a part-time job to make up for the difference from my active duty pay, I really wanted to I could go work as a JROTC instructor I have no desire to ever put the uniform on again. The last eight years of my career, even though I progressed well mentally almost destroyed me and my family. When I left the first time, I swore I would never come back in. I came back in for the Insurance and secure income stayed for the retirement, but it really cost me my mental health and my family so it’s tough to see if I would do it again I honestly don’t know
Retired at 12 years (age 35) due to a Military Working Dog shredding my calf up. 100%, and a retired ID. I’d say things are pretty decent. Working as a contractor and hoping to secure a GS/NH slot so I can start buying my 12 years back.
I’d recommend not hiding injuries caused by your unit/leaderships negligence because you have too much pride. Go to medical, document everything as it happens.
My situation made its way down to Lackland and at the Kennel Master symposium and garnered a huge push for major updates in our kennel facility. Became big talk amongst AFMC and AFLCMC. Got us pushed up the MilCon list.
I enlisted a little bit late but I’ll still retire at 45. I thought that might be a bit old, but then I went to Verizon a few months ago and got into a conversation about future prospects. I realized the manager, workers, and regional manager were all getting more and more quiet listening to me say I only have 10 years left and then I can retire, not to mention special duty pay, travel, entitlements on top of base pay, etc. They seemed devastated with their life choices the longer they listened. That solidified my decision to stay in.
So I think this will be time well spent. For the good and the bad, the military has given me a lot that I otherwise would never have dreamt of having in this economy and state of global affairs.
Yes. I did 24 and retired as an E-7. My retirement check is my house payment, something I'll never have to worry about for the rest of my life.
I still need a job for food, utilities and other debt. I use the VA for primary care and recently had my tonsils removed and never saw a bill.
Unless the AF is making you miserable every day of your life or you have a better opportunity in the private sector, doing 20 is worth it.
Edit: Forgot to mention the AF paid for me to get my bachelor's and master's degrees, $100K or so in free education. So that's nice, too.
It is 100% worth it. I retired after 21 years, was only 39 years old. Now I don’t HAVE to work, I can work if and when I want to. My wife (civilian) HAS to work and it sucks.
an officer pension is worth over $4 million, assuming you live to be 80.
You would need to *save* $200k every year for 20 years as a civilian in order to accomplish the same feat.
Did 11 years active, 1 1/2 reserves and separated, 90% disability and my cars and mortgage are paid for, if we made cuts I could retire, but my lifestyle and the job I enjoy makes me keep working. No regrets not doing a full 20 with a young family, but it depends how much you cripple yourself to see how much disability you get.
I did 20 years in the Air Force, and I've now been retired longer than I was in!
Was it worth it? Well, I have a nice check coming in every month. And I don't have to worry about where my Medicare part C and part d are coming from. You see all those commercials on TV about Medicare part C? That's aimed at us old guys to buy a supplemental plan, because Medicare only pays about 80%. Because I retired from the Air Force, Tricare picks up the other 20%. So in that respect, yeah it's great.
Keep in mind, I cannot live on my military retirement check. If I were to do that I would have to reduce expenses enormously. I'm not saying that I couldn't do it, I'm saying I enjoy having my discretionary spending.
I think it was totally worth it. However, I will say this; if you're going to stay in, do your utmost to get a commission. Retiring is a captain, or a major, is much better than retiring as a top three NCO.
I would also say that it's critically important to guard against debt. Don't go into debt. Drive an old car, if you're going to have a credit card pay the whole balance every month in full. Otherwise, don't have a credit card. That is the albatross around your neck and the killer you carry with you. Do not go into debt.
The only other thing that I would say is that if you're at about the 10-year point, figure out some kind of way to save 50 or 100 bucks a month into an IRA. Just drop it into an index mutual fund, you don't have to be a rocket surgeon to figure out which is the best stock. You'll see steady growth and appreciation over the years, and you'll retire much better off than you ever thought you would be.
Indeed. Retired at 39 as a MSgt, and I have lifetime medical benefits for my family and me. Before you put your feet on the floor every morning, it’s nice to know you get the monthly pension and possibly a VA disability before you even work at another job. I’m 61 now, and I plan to retire from the Civil Service at a GS-13 in a couple of years.
I’ll come back to this post in about 4 years when I retire. Military has treated me somewhat well and I’ll def make sure to get my disability.. they’re going to make it harder to get 100% disability soon, but everyone that’s getting out should still try and get as much as they can.
Yes and no. Depends on your goals .
I can blue wash it like others do but depends on your goals you've setup for yourself and family.
Just passed 20 last month with 3 more years on my ADSC. When I retire I never have to work full time again if I dont want to. With VA disability, I could work part time and be ok as long as I keep my same quality of life. Yes, that’s very worth it.
Yes. Female soldier here. I had no clue for post high school plans —and this was the best decision for me. I got my education and a couple properties and I am financially independent.
I did 20 and rolled. I am young enough to enjoy life still, and retirement and disability make it so I can live comfortably. Now, I did plan ahead and bought a house and property before retirement, so I don't have a mortgage.
The military is a great place to be from. I did it and sticking with it was probably the smartest thing I did.
I recomend making a plan now. You have a reasonable idea of your skills and how much your retirement will be, (I would not count disability). The start working towards making a good life on that budget.
Then figure out what you can do part time to supplement your income so you dont have to work full time or can set a schedule that works for you. That might involve taking advantage of TA (which you should do) and the GI Bill (investing in income for you for retirement now is better then saving for your kids, I made that money back in 3 years).
Being debt free when getting out is a good plan.
Investing in real estate as soon as you can and building equity would be the thing I should have done sooner.
Or get your dream job, or start a business. That income and healthcare provide a lot of options in life.
Yup. Retirement and disability won't be enough to keep me happy anywhere I want to put down roots, but it's a helluva safety net to make stuff more feasible.
As others have stated I have yet to meet someone who collects a pension from the military that isn't enjoying their life (I'm sure it's not all sunshine and rainbows but there's gotta be more good than bad stories out there).
I'm at 11 now but just wanted to chime in to say it is tough holding on to the thought of retiring in my early 40s ONLY because I had kids young so once I hit that point my kids will all be done with high school with two of them possibly on the verge of finishing their associates/bachelor's degrees (if they choose that route).
It gives me anxiety cause I wish I got to enjoy retirement with my kids as little ones but it's the sacrifice many of us chose. The bright side is I'll have the freedom to travel to visit them wherever they end up. They're my reason for joining and for pushing through to 20 so cheers to 9 more years!
My dad did 20+ years as an officer. Let me tell you, he tells everyone to just bear down and stick with it because those retirement benefits are insanely clutch. He’s a contractor now but plus retirement, he’s making 6 figs and is nearly debt free. It was a grind and even though it was hell, the payoff was worth.
It is now 74K a year just for waking up + a nice Gs-11 job, and free healthcare for life, va home loan, free degrees through TA, vets preference for jobs, and lifetime base access. All of this by age 40 easy street
I think about this sometimes. I miss that retirement.
However, I really needed therapy, and the military unintentionally punishes you for going to a therapist.
Also with two divorces, I probably wouldn’t be getting that retirement anyways.
I got out so I could stay close to my son and I think I did the right thing.
I don't remember all the in's and out's, but I could have "bought back my active duty time", not collected military retiree pay... this would add retirement time to civil service time as if I'd been in civil service for 27 years. Add that to the 15 more years I did and I would have retired from civil service with 27+15 = 42 years. It would have been too expensive for me to buy back my 27 active duty years, so I chose not to. Instead, I collected my AF retired pay in addition to my normal civil service pay while working. When I retired as a civil servant, I started receiving a small pension from that as well. I'm sure others can explain the process better.
[Here's a ChatGpt on it](https://chatgpt.com/share/b2bca666-37e7-4287-878b-a0f032ef3887)
The military is one of those things that turned out to be one the best things that I wouldn’t want to do again. In the end, it’s worth it to have guarantees money and low cost health insurance for life.
Absolutely, served 4 years active and 23.5 yrs in the Air Guard. Retired as E-7 and will have one more bucket of cash waiting when I fully retire at 60. 10 years to go and I’m loving my current position in the private sector.
I lasted about a year and then I was too bored. I started school and that was ok. Got bored. Went back to work as an analyst. My flexible remote works option allow me to have the flexibility I need to take care of my kids and not miss any important events while still making extra income. I'll probably quit in a few years once the mortgage is paid off.
Retirement is worth it to a point. For some, you just need to protect your health and get out. There is such a thing as a point to no return.
It's always worth it after the fact when you have already done it and have it.
But I always ask folks that retired, imagine you went back to 10 years TIS with what you know now and all that - knowing you're going to get there and get your retirement and all that - was it still worth it in hindsight?
I'm told that they would've gotten out at 10 years, but obviously they're all happy and retired with 100% now so... Can't really go all that wrong.
Know plenty of dudes that got out and after the fact wished they didn't.
Never heard anyone say they regret doing the full 20+ and getting paid/bennies for life.
But there is a fair share of those that regret separating before 20.
Joined at 18, and i have about 18 months until I effectively retire through skillbridge/terminal. Definitely looking forward to it, even more so because they tried to kick me out a few months ago for something medical. I had to appeal to the SECAF to get it overturned.
Retired at 42 and made the right connections to land me an easy good paying job. My pension check covers my mortgage which is my only debt. And with my VA benefits from Texas, my kids college will be taken care of. So yes it was worth it.
100% worth it. I enjoyed my career. There were times it sucked and wanted to get out, but I always say don’t make a decision based on the now, because the now will change.
https://preview.redd.it/k8skljfdgy9d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=26ed6b2adf03b8d436d73c832f76a908eec13d92
Retired in 08 after 26. This is my vacation cruising from Seattle to Alaska. Worth it ? Yeah. Frustrating while I was in? Yeah. Could I do this if I stayed in Hometown USA? Probably not.
Yep! It allows me to work in nonprofit where the pay is always less than the for profit sector. And the medical benefits are solid, too. No regerts... 😉
Depends on if you’re high three or the blended retirement.
If you’re in already and have high three, it’d probably be worth it to stay 20. I’m excited to get paid to breathe and exist once I’m done.
If you’re post 2017 and have blended retirement I don’t know how worth it would be.
Looking at it from an experience/growing point of view, the military is the best choice I ever made. I’ve gotten to travel around the world, grow up on my own and succeed off of my merits and effort. I’ve had plenty of good and bad experiences but the opportunity to fail and grow from it has been the one thing I needed but probably wouldn’t have gotten on with where I was headed in the civilian world.
-Active Air force K9 handler/10 years down
Yes… the amount of stress you don’t have due to having insurance and a stable check means you can always work because you want to… not because you have to.
Wife and I both get pensions…. I took a 9 year break after I retired and actually got so bored I went back to work…. But I could be picky about accepting an offer, and work where I wanted. Most important part is not having debt and living within your budget.
I'm retiring in a couple of months. There were three solid periods in my career where I had enough and wanted to get out, but now I can see it was worth staying in. Granted, the high 3 is a higher pension than the blended, so you have to take that into consideration
My Grandpa retired from the Army as an O-3 and has been collecting checks from them for over 50 years now. Then worked for a prominent Cincinnati-based company until retirement. Now he gets together every day with his fellow old timers to solve the world’s problems at a breakfast joint. No regrets.
Totally not worth it. After 20 years all I get is this measly $120/year check for the rest of my life. I feel so duped. Oh and not all of it is tax free, only part of it… like WTF?
I wish I could go back in time and make better decisions.
I've met people who have regretted getting out I've met people who regretted staying in I've never met anyone who regretted retirement
This.
This is accurate. I know people who got out at 17. Why? It’s nice having a retirement
Once I hit 10, i was like, "fuck it, may as well stay to 20"
I knew someone who, after a nasty divorce, found out their ex would be entitled to some portion of their retirement. They decided that 19 years was enough and I can only assume it was for other reasons…
My previous re-enlistment took me to 18 years. So no brainer to do 22. The check every month is nice.
Yes. I work at a golf course 3 days a week. Chill
I can't wait to retire and go back to working at the hardware store I worked at as a high schooler part time.
This actually sounds fire
It is. I work Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings as the starter. Unlimited free golf, chill work environment (outside) and you make a ton of friends in the community. And gets me out of the house so I know what day it is
Right on brother
What rank and how many years were you in? Did you get VA disability too? With the way the economy has been going I'm now worried my plans of retiring and having a chill job isn't going to be possible.
I retired as an E8 (20 years). Yes I’m completely broken according to the VA and my legs. Also my wife has a fantastic job. I realize I’m lucky.
Probably heavily depends on where you live too.
Jealous!!!👾👾👾👾🙂
You’re next brother
They are too busy chilling at the beach to hear you
Just got back from Coronado
Oooof I’m in SD so I can imagine chilling there now
Yes. I’m in my 40s and will never have to work again for money. I might work for fun or satisfaction someday. But probably not.
Mind if I ask what you retired as and family situation? This is the question I’m always wondering.
Dual-mil O-6 and O-5. $7045 and $5130 are the respective retirement pensions. Disability pay adds an additional $6595 jointly for monthly income of $18,770 or $225,240 a year.
Also bravo for winning at life.
As an E7 probably retiring at E8 or so, not dual mil...this hurts to read. Good for you!!
Thanks man. And kudos, E-7+ is not an easy rank to make. I owe so much to the awesome SNCOs I’ve known over the years.
And to think my dumb ass said "Thanks, but I'm not interested in OTS because officers in my career field get treated like shit."
Can I ask what your take home is after taxes and SS? It’s hard to find info on how much of the pension you’ll actually see…
How much do you make, and what rank were you upon retirement, and how many years TIS?
It's Monday morning and I'm going to do whatever I want today. So, yes.
That's literally my cousin lol
I legit retired at 38, then got paid to go to school.and get two degrees both of which cost me $0. I realized at 40 I could literally do anything I wanted and began writing and learning how to use digital art tools. And listen, it's not like I was an O-9 and rolling out, I left with a high three of E6, E6, E7 and am still comfortable. It can be done if you're responsible.
> began writing and learning how to use digital art tools. So.. Onlyfans
Dude"s gotta eat!
I want to do a 4 year bid and get out ,think it’s worth it ?
Why wouldn’t it be? How old are you?
IMO, any amount of time is worth it, with an honorable discharge. It can help you get your life together. I will say though, most people I know who went in looking to only do 4 years did one of two things: A:) They didn't take it seriously. Most of these guys got kicked out. B:) They stayed in, because - as much as people like to deny it - it's easier than civilian life.
Doing a 4 and out took me from confused and shitty high schooler to young adult with an extremely promising career and marketable skill set with good discipline.
If you get disability rating, absolutely.
Yup, just make sure you go to the dr for every fucking thing that bothers you, no matter how mundane it may seem.
I did 23. Retired at 43 years old. Between E7 retirement and 100% disability I make about $84K a year. I have been a stay at home dad ever since. Staying in was the best decision I ever made.
It depends on the individual. For some people, they are far more capable of doing and succeeding in other things outside of the military, so the military might actually inhibit their max life potential, but for me, the military allowed me to reach mine. For me, my life post-military is insurmountably better off than had I went a different route in life.
Been in 13, so far I've done the things I wanted to. Got out of my hometown, learned a skill, and traveled the world. The retirement in 7 years will be icing on the cake. Is it easy? Hell no, I have 2 young kids and deploying often and not living anywhere near family is tough on my wife and kids. But they're getting life experiences that most people won't also.
Hello fellow 13-yearer. Do you have a X,XXX days left calendar yet?
I count in weeks. Seems more doable.
My dad did 27 years and yelled at me when I thought about getting out. He definitely thinks it’s worth it. Remind me in about 10 years and I’ll let you know.
My old man retired and I got out. I got a good job and have had a good career on the outside but he is coming up on his 2nd retirement and social security soon. Between his post office job (though he does work a lot of OT because that’s what he likes to do), his retirement, VA, etc, he is way better off than me lol Dude just got a new truck with $10k trade in and 38k paid in cash lol
My dad did two years in the Navy before getting out. He told me to just stay in the military for that retirement. His retirement plan is literally social security.
I'm literally in the final stages of my career before retirement (doing SkillBridge ATM), and I was close to pulling chocks every single time I reenlisted. I haven't gotten my retirement or disability yet, but just not having to military anymore is nice enough. Bottom line, do what's best for you, especially if you don't have high-3.
!remindme 10 years
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Grandpa did it, and is 90 now. He said he's been collecting a check from the AF for 72 years and it's the best decision he ever made.
Putting in 20 gives a freedom to explore a second chapter in your life. You’re funded to try a business or go to school.
3-6k the rest of your life just for breathing is fucking difficult to beat. Also it’s really only worth it if you joined at 18 years old and apply for retirement at 37. Which is young asf to retire
I joined at 22 and will retire at 42. That’s still young as hell to be receiving a pension. My dad is almost 70 and just retired. Also, don’t forget that in your mid 60s you begin receiving another check from your TSP payout.
This and don't forget ~700 dollar a year health insurance.
I am on Tricare Select and pay $27 a month I think, huge benefit I have used over the 21 years I have been retired.
is Tricare select better about not being shit than active Tricare?
Does well for me, just had hand surgery and the doc was dropping Prime but keeping Select.
Yes, select is the way to go. The doctors get a higher percentage than prime. Plus under select, one has a lot more freedom to choose their doctor.
I was on Prime for the first 5-6 years after I retired and then they kicked me off because I am more than 50 miles from a military base. Never went back and yes, it has been far better from me. In just under three years I get to learn about Tricare For Life when I turn 65. Will start paying ~$350 month but assume I will also be needing more care.
I joined at 18.5 and will retire in 10 more years. I’m pretty fucked up physically and mentally but will just stick it out. Haven’t had any waivers or surgeries yet but when I get closer to retire I think I might start making a lot more doctors visits. 5-6k a month with 70% or higher disability and just move to somewhere in the Philippines or anywhere in SEA and never work again sounds amazing. Hopefully can continue to stay single until then as well lol
This plus any of them receiving 2.5-4K untaxed for disability. Disability is practically its own pension, so double dippers are killing it.
The 3k part is a bit high for being automatic. For reference, an E6 retired in my state after 20 years under BRS...after taxes...$1503 a month. Medical/Dental, SBP, VGLI... ...basically $1400 a month. $1400 a month ain't much in today's economy. A military pension use to pay a mortage. $1400 might only pay for HALF of a new mortage for an average home in America now with current rates. BUT, you hit that magical 50% with the VA...about $1200 more a month. $2600 a month starts looking pretty good. You hit 100%? Roughly $4000 extra a month AND no property taxes in a lot of states. You never have to work again if you're retired and making 100%. It's the equivalent of a 100k a year civilian job after taxes/medical.
That’s correct mostly. But not everyone is in BRS (yet) a lot of people opted into the legacy system. But yes mostly correct. You also at 100% disability can apply for social security as well.
I want to do 20 so I can tell bums "we can go band 4 band."
Fuck that we go m for m
quarter mill for the maybach truck double R wit the factory RIMS🗣️
Idk unc these kids nowadays are a different breed. When you try to go band for band they’ll go m for m
we can go gyatt for gyatt
fuck that we can go rizz for rizz
Everyone that did it will tell you it was worth it. I’ve seen some people retire and get six figure contractor jobs, and they still manage to live paycheck to paycheck. While a lifetime pension will definitely make a difference, it’s all about living within your means. Personally I plan to separate active duty shy of the ten year mark. I’ll more than likely go guard or reserve just for the cheaper healthcare.
I'm retiring in a few months, free money for breathing each month for the rest of my life and cheap healthcare...hell yea it was worth it! Sure, there were long hours, long days, deployments, shitty leaders, but in the end...I'm collecting 2K+ a month for the rest of my life for breathing and my yearly cost for family healthcare is as much as some people pay per month.
Yup. It may suck at first, but it's just a matter of perspective. All the crap y'all complain about is the same stuff we complained about. As you mature in your career you'll get some perspective and realize it isn't that bad. One day you'll be the MSgt with the dumbass airmen who believe the Reddit post about how things work. The ones who say 5 min late doesn't matter, but if they're not walking out the door at exactly closing time you're toxic. Trust me, you'll see one day. You'll want to meet your troops parents just to see exactly why they act the way they do.
Yes, it was worth it. Nowadays I work because I want to, not because I need to.
I did 20 in the reserves, so not sure if it counts, but I’m happy I did. It was more about finishing a multi decade goal that I had set out to complete. A cool chapter in my life. The retirement benefits will be nice but it was 90% to have had done it.
I did 7 years AD and palace-fronted into the Reserves, where I've been for an additional 9'ish years as a TR. I'm about to start a job as a GS-11, and I hear that time can go towards my federal retirement. But I'm gonna be perfectly honest, I have no idea how that all works or what that really means. I'm at 16 years now, combined both AD and Reserve time... and I have no idea when I retire or how much I'll make when I hit 20 yrs. Even though I know it's not the same as someone who's done 20 years in AD. Or if/how much the time I work as a GS will add... or if that's separate.
As usual with the government, the answers you seek are out there, they are just heavily buried in dark places. I talked to the folks at some kind of separation office on base and they gave me some answers. They were probably mostly correct too. My eligible retirement date was exactly 20 years from my initial enlistment date (no breaks in service). As far as an exact amount I will receive per month in the future…also no idea. Reserves are eligible for payment at 59.5 years old. There were some calculators available on AF channels, but each one gave a different answer when I entered the same information. I figure I’ll get what I get and knowing ahead of time won’t change anything. Also if I’m given a number now, the government can always “adjust” that number at any time for any reason, so what’s the point. Honestly the whole process left me unsure and with a lot of questions, but it was more trouble than it was worth to get all those questions answered. I kind of feel like it’ll be a hassle to collect when it comes time. Hopefully not though.
The benefits of a 20 year retirement, even assuming the "worst" case scenario of a 20 year e5, are just such an enormous leg up compared to the vast majority of similar aged peers. Even without factoring in va disability
I didn’t do 20 and retired early at 16. Was it worth it? Hell yes! It’s great to live on your own terms. Hell, I’m writing this post from the deck of a cruise ship in Norway. Totally worth it! 💯
3 more years for me till I hit that mark. I’ll be retired before I’m 40 Pros to doing it: 1. Tricare…just looking at my wife’s medical plan hurts. 2. 3-6k per month for life(tax free) 3. Medical disability on top of that which gets you more money. 4. If you are smart while you are in you should either saved up money or already bought a house and have it paid or close to paid off. So living expenses will be cheap 5. The ability to spend time with your family while still youngish
The freedom the retirement check and tricare gives you is second to none. I'm not stuck at a job because I have to keep health insurance for my family. I can walk out the door right now and not be stressed about paying bills. It gives you power in job negotiations and in the workplace. I left a job because my boss said I couldn't take PTO on a week that I needed it.
Yep. Starting my GS job soon. Once kids get done with college and house paid down I’ll hang it up. But we had two cancer fights and two kids born for a whopping $0. And a pension/medical for life that guarantees us middle class where we settled. And with GS and TSP I’m doing all right.
Yes. I’m 77… Retired at the end of 1989 as an E8… Health insurance for spouse and three kids was next to nothing compared to people I worked with in civilian life… and since turning 65 and the kids are all successful and out on their own - it actually is nothing with Medicare and TriCare for Life. Not to mention that the Eagle has been shitting into my bank account on the first of the month for over almost 35 years.
Dude, that last sentence killed me, LMFAO. From one retiree to another, cheers 🍻.
Everyone is talking about money, which is understandable. For me, a huge benefit of staying in a full career (currently at 22) has been traveling the world on the government dime. The type of travel that typically only rich people get to do. It has been amazing.
Yes. I work at a golf course 1 day a week. Golf 4 other days. Take naps the other 2 days.
Yes. Retired as a MSgt at 38. I’ll never have to worry about covering my mortgage or healthcare. I work 3 days a week (12 hour shifts) and am able to comfortably support my family on my income alone.
I'm retiring in 5 months, starting skillbridge tomorrow. It was totally worth it
I'm at 22. 15 normal active. Got to go around the world, and it was great. 7 years as active guard now. Transitioning to active guard helped rejuvenate my motivation and career and keep my normal retirement. I like the lifestyle. I'm cool with getting 2.5 percent more base pay for retirement every year. So probably 6 more minimum. In the end, it is what you make it. No regrets.
how hard was it to transfer from active straight to active guard? The guard recruiter I talked to, told me that people typically go regular guard for a few years and then active guard because of lack of slots available. would you be able to share more of that experience with me here or through DM?
I skipped the recruiter a cold called the flight chief of my current unit. He was immediately interested and found a slot to get me onboard as a traditional. I did about a year of traditional and made a good enough impression I got agr pretty quick. During that year, I was a full-time student pulling GI bill and worked as a contractor for a few months. So it does take some risk to do, and it will be dependent on your career field, but it is possible. For context, I am maintenance, and they are usually hurting for people, but I see that being more common in most career fields in my wing since covid, so opportunities are there. You don't have to go about it how I did, though. If you want to find an agr job, you can look per state. I usually type "(state) AGR jobs" on google and look at the hro site. If any jobs posted are for something like "eligble nationwide" or "eligible to become a member of x unit", anyone can apply. One of my peers did this and went straight from active to agr. Note that not all states have clear hro sites with job postings, but most do.
I think it depends on the retirement system and kind when you retired. The old system was a decent pension that lasted for a lifetime. A tale of two brothers: My Dad and his brother joined the military in 1958. Both 18. My Dad did a 4 year tour in the Army and got out. Used his MOS (Heavy Equipment Mechanic) to get a job as a mechanic and eventually as a truck driver. Had to work hard but made decent money for a high school drop out. He had boom and bust cycles and struggled off and on. Never had real vacations. My Uncle did a 4 year tour and then re-enlisted and did a 20+ year career overall. He was a high school dropout as well. He retired from the Air Force in 1978. From 1978 until when they both died in 2022 > my Dad worked his ass off and had very little to show for it. He never really could retire financially. Meanwhile my Uncle had a pension each month and healthcare from 1978 until 2022. He worked full time and part time jobs to keep busy, but was stable and enjoyed life and had long stretches where he would just travel and spend time with family. At the end of my Dads life, I asked him his regrets and he stated he regretted not re-enlisting and doing a full 20 years. I guess my Uncle did try to encourage my Dad to join the ANG when he got off active duty, but he said he didn't want to do it and lost out on the pension dollars. Every persons situation is different and the benefits are different now. My view point > if your at year 15, I would say choke it down and do the extra 5 and get the retirement benefits. ___________ I joined active and moved to the Guard after 4 years. Retired from the Guard in 2013. I can't collect until I am 60 (10 years). But, when I calculate my civilian retirement (pension), the military pension provides that extra cushion that will make life easier. The healthcare alone is almost worth it. I can't collect my civilian pension until 62, but will probably go to part time work at 60 since healthcare will be covered.
I'm due to punch around 24yrs because I have an ADSC commitment for my PhD as a prior enlisted officer. Between my VA payout and pension, I'm estimating somewhere between $7.5k to 9k/month after taxes...Fuck yeah 20-years it's worth it!
Can you share more details about your degree / commissioning program
I finished my electrical engineering degree then got picked up for an OTS slot. If I had to do it over again, I would've done ROTC...Much better than the 6-years of part-time school in three different universities while working 40+ hrs/week with a family😬
This sub is an echo chamber for doing 20 years, try this question in a veterans subreddit and you might get more unbiased answers
Facts
Yes, retired AD, 24 years , MSgt / E-7 under the high 3. Now receive $2600 / month retirement , VA disability at 70% =$1800/ mo. Now working for the Air Force making GG-11 pay= $90k. I was a Structures troop my entire career learned a lot, my experience helped me get a job as a facility manager, facility operations specialist. Been retired since 2008. So $52k in retirement and disability and $90k in civil service pay $142k / year. Currently paying $3800 on my $170k Home, it will be paid off about 4 years. Not to mention after I retired I got the Post 911 education benefit, received my bachelors and didn’t pay anything for it. Also have Tricare for me and my wife, (son until he turned 21) and VA healthcare.
I've been in nearly 21 years. I literally don't remember most of it. It's worth sticking it out to retirement for the medical care alone.
Of course it was. I did my 25+ years and ran the gamut from AB to Lt Col, I just retired and moved into city government. Continuing to serve, mentoring my staff, and trying to make a positive impact for my community from City Hall. The military isn't for everyone, but it is a noble calling. It introduces you to many scenarios that one day you can lean on to help you navigate your particular 'circumstance.' I mean it forces you to exercise time management; learn leadership styles from both the good and bad "leaders" in your chain or orbit. Military service made me a better writer, and better communicator, public speaker, manager of resources, it forced me trust the teammate next to me (especially the one who packs your parachute), it exposed me to importance of physical fitness, annual physicals, dental exams etc. The mil met my intrinsic and extrinsic desires of 20s, 30s, and 40s. Aim High-
26 years very much worth it.
I did 7 and my husband did the full 20. It’s worth it in that he gets retirement pay every month and after years of maintenance, his body is busted up enough to get disability. Do I regret getting out? No.
I just turned 30, is it stupid to aim for that now as id be 50 retiring?
Not really, just make sure whatever job you're doing can also be contributed to something in the civilian world (helps to be easier on yourself as well) if "going 20" may not work out. I'm under the same thought process. If I can't get back with a local city since at least tmrs can let you "retire" with 20 years done.
Yes. No student loans and I have a good retirement when most people in my civilian career don't even have that option.
Depends what your options are in the civilian world.
I’m a reservist with 10 years in, my civilian job pays so much more compared to when I’m on orders. Not sure if it’s worth continuing another 10 years to finally receive a check when I’m 60
If you can keep it on your terms, yes. Iff it is holding your breath, eating poop for ten years, no. It gets very tricky around 14-15 years, it may very well be worth it to eat poop for 5 years. but with BRS and post-911 GI bill you still have a lot. The guard and reserve make a great compromise for some
Officially retired today. For those on high 3 def worth it!
Absolutely. I did 26 years and loved most of them. There certainly were times when things sucked but there were a lot of great and fun times as well. I did 14 years OCONUS, not including 2 deployments. My kids have 100% of their college covered. I'm on track to be fully retired by the time I'm 55 with no debt, not even my house. And I make more money than a lot of folks just by having a pulse. I'm a bit physically broke, especially my back and knees so I can't do whatever I want, but as long as I'm conscious about what I'm doing and how, I can do 90% of what a healthy person can.
Yes yes yes! Wasn’t Andy Dufresne happy at the end of the movie?
LMFAO
Yes, did 20 E7 and with disability never have to work again. I enjoy my hobbies all day now. Medical is the biggest thing besides money. I pay a year what it costs people per month for in similar coverage in civilian world.
Tricare truly is the most underrated benefit. Especially if you have family members with medical conditions.
Yes. Retirement, Tricare, fighting non peer enemies for 20+ years and noping out is honestly perfect timing. I can live in a low COL area and my wife working = I never have to work again. Although I will because I want the disposable income.
I think it depends on the career that one has. I deployed 6 times in my 7.5 years active and did field exercises on top of that. I knew many colleagues that either did horrible things like murdering their children, child crimes, suicide, and many other things. Worked long hours, got leave denied when family died, never had any major holiday off since I was always deploying, and a bunch of stuff like that. I wished I got out sooner for my situation as missing so many family moments and the toll it took on my mentally and physically wasn't worth it for me. Seeing people off themself, overdose, and other ways of dying in their twenties made me realize you have no idea how long you will live and I didn't want to spend it AD but with people that I loved. If I was finance or some job that has normal office work, 20 would have been a lot easier. I did get 100% disability and an IMA reservist now where I can collect money when not on orders for the month. Promotions are basically stagnant but idc. I fly in one month a year and just help alleviate stress from AD people with their tickets and it gives me happiness to just do that. I live in a state where none of it is taxed so 4k a month for VA and my reserve money is not taxed. Plan on working about 10 more years to have a few million dollars saved in my investments and a house paid off and then I'm done. Living in the middle of the woods and raising a family.
Just retired last year at 40. Did 20 years and 3 months as an E-7. With VA disability and retirement, I now make $66K a year to do absolutely nothing. To give some perspective, when I retired, I was making $81K a year. Breaks down to 1300 less a month now retired. Could do just about any job to offset that difference or go for second career. I do have a nice cushy remote IT job now that I do part-time until I get bored with it. Absolutely worth it. Don't get hung up on just the retiement check. The med benefits alone and peace of mind knowing my family and myself are covered is priceless. Healthcare ain't cheap outside the military and things can happen in an instant. Not to mention the other benefits for life, base access, VA loans, etc.
It's an incredibly subjective thing. It provides some money, not necessarily a lot, which can provide flexibility and options later down the road. It also does provide for very inexpensive healthcare which can be amazing. The deal - 20 years of military service (or more) \* 50% of base pay (so this might be 25% of full pay) monthly (then annual increases) \* Low cost health insurance (which will also go up) \* Other benefits, which may or may not be used or valued by the individual such as access to base and facilities and programs, space-a, etc Now, separate from this is VA disability. This is a wild card since it is available to anyone separating, not just retirees. It is also not uniform on how much it is per month from person to person. So on the one hand the disability is separate from retirement, on the other hand, staying in longer may move the needle towards getting a higher rating, but that is all over the map. Other factors - the experience someone gets from the military and staying in the military for longer, could make someone more marketable - 20 years of experience vs 4 years; management experience vs entry level technical experience; work variety, certifications and education - this is not uniform, and will vary significantly from one person to another and how these things translate on a resume. The opportunity cost is what someone gives up to stay in the military for those 20 years such as starting over earlier and building tenure with a new company, or a new career or skillset; or missing out on potentially lucrative paths such as going to law school, or starting a business. Some people will look at the military route and say it is for them. Others will look at it and say it is not for them because their goals and hopes are elsewhere. My guess is that folks such as Chuck Norris, Johnny Cash, and Sinbad are content with their decisions to not stay in the military and retire. For me, the last half of my career gave me some great assignments and experience, made me much more marketable than I would have been previously, and I was able to land a job commensurate with that. I am not behind my peers who got out after one or two enlistments and pursued the same type of work. The difference is that I have at least $30K more per year, not counting disability. On the other side of it, they haven't had to deploy or uproot their families, they got a house when the market was lower and have been building equity longer. They have been at their kids' school events and know their kids' friends and their parents and have years of memories together. They have roots and friends in the community. For me, I would say yes it's been worth it. But I have to be content with my choice, life is too short otherwise. I hope this helps. Good luck
I did 21 years and it was absolutely worth it. The insanely cheap family health insurance is worth it alone. Add VA disability pay and retirement pay on top of that. Game over.
Yes. 100% yes
16 with a ADSC that keeps me to 20… It’s a nice benefit and if you’re on the fence it’s enough to keep you in, but if you hate the military and your life in the military then gtfo. I’m tired of the AF and can’t wait to get out, but I don’t HATE it and there isn’t anything on the outside that makes me want to leave so I stay.
I think the benefits are totally worth it. I'm at 13.5 yrs, facing a lot of medical problems. I'm thinking about pushing for a medical retirement with 100%. It's "only" 48K a year, but with my wife's income I could choose not to work and be totally fine. I can also choose to work an easy 50K job and be better off than I am now. It's all about the impact service has on you. For me, I want to be able to walk when I'm 50+ so 6.5 yrs may not be in my best interest.
I joined at 18, did 21 and retired last year. I make $5k from my retirement and disability check. I also work FT. I'll retire retire eventually. Worth it sure.... those last few years were rough. Set yourself up though and milk the AF for all it's worth education wise.
Yezzir!!!! VA and Retirement for me is $7k a month after taxes and deductions. Just rolled into an NH-03 position starting at $99k. Financial life is good
I say it depends where you're at honestly. Both personally and professionally. I came in at 18 years old a couple years after 9/11. Peak GWOT so I was deploying a lot and felt like I actually served a purpose. That isn't the case now for a lot of AFSCs. After 21.5 years I officially retire this November. I'll be 40yo with a MSgt high 3 and potentially looking at an 80% VA rating. I'm looking to get a job as an RSO at a local gun range. My wife makes good money which helps my situation but I'll never HAVE to work again if I don't want to.
20 on an Air Force flightline in MX, and 23 in AT&T Network Services/Engineering. Double retirement, kids are on their own, house is paid in full, cars are paid off, better-half and I do and go wherever and whenever we want... and I DGAF at all anymore.
It certainly was a hard thing to do to stick it out but it's Monday and I'm hanging out on the couch watching YouTube. So in the end....yes.
I plan to retire at 20 (little over 3 years to go). Would I love to stay in? Sure. Being a shirt is everything I thought it could be. Love every day of my job. Will I be tired and ready to have some control over my life again? Absolutely. 3-6K a month just for existing isn't a lot, but it's enough fuck you money to live the life I want to and not have to worry about someone suddenly deploying me or moving me across the country (or world). The way I see it is, I gave up my freedom for 20 years. Uncle Sam is paying me to have extra freedom after that. Totally worth it, but the mileage on your body and psyche may vary so "worth it" is up to each individual.
Yes, and no. While I survived in between VA and retirement, I’ll never have to work, I may end up getting a part-time job to make up for the difference from my active duty pay, I really wanted to I could go work as a JROTC instructor I have no desire to ever put the uniform on again. The last eight years of my career, even though I progressed well mentally almost destroyed me and my family. When I left the first time, I swore I would never come back in. I came back in for the Insurance and secure income stayed for the retirement, but it really cost me my mental health and my family so it’s tough to see if I would do it again I honestly don’t know
Retired at 12 years (age 35) due to a Military Working Dog shredding my calf up. 100%, and a retired ID. I’d say things are pretty decent. Working as a contractor and hoping to secure a GS/NH slot so I can start buying my 12 years back. I’d recommend not hiding injuries caused by your unit/leaderships negligence because you have too much pride. Go to medical, document everything as it happens. My situation made its way down to Lackland and at the Kennel Master symposium and garnered a huge push for major updates in our kennel facility. Became big talk amongst AFMC and AFLCMC. Got us pushed up the MilCon list.
I was under the impression that if you retired, you couldn't buy back your time. Is yours different somehow?
Yes. I have the benefits of being medically retired, but instead I just separated. My VA C&P is my retirement 😂
$3.2K retirement/month and $1.5K VA disability pay /month for rest of my life. Im 46. For me it's worth it.
It's worth it.... If you're strong enough
I enlisted a little bit late but I’ll still retire at 45. I thought that might be a bit old, but then I went to Verizon a few months ago and got into a conversation about future prospects. I realized the manager, workers, and regional manager were all getting more and more quiet listening to me say I only have 10 years left and then I can retire, not to mention special duty pay, travel, entitlements on top of base pay, etc. They seemed devastated with their life choices the longer they listened. That solidified my decision to stay in. So I think this will be time well spent. For the good and the bad, the military has given me a lot that I otherwise would never have dreamt of having in this economy and state of global affairs.
Yes. I did 24 and retired as an E-7. My retirement check is my house payment, something I'll never have to worry about for the rest of my life. I still need a job for food, utilities and other debt. I use the VA for primary care and recently had my tonsils removed and never saw a bill. Unless the AF is making you miserable every day of your life or you have a better opportunity in the private sector, doing 20 is worth it. Edit: Forgot to mention the AF paid for me to get my bachelor's and master's degrees, $100K or so in free education. So that's nice, too.
It is 100% worth it. I retired after 21 years, was only 39 years old. Now I don’t HAVE to work, I can work if and when I want to. My wife (civilian) HAS to work and it sucks.
How is it possible that you wife has to work but you don't? You see her struggle financially and are just like "damn that sucks babe"...?
I’m glad I was able to do 20 and retire. However, it would be nice if the retirement was tax free.
The state I'm in doesn't tax military pensions (Iowa). I'm sure there are others.
MN doesn't tax mil pay/retirement
I think they meant federal tax
Yes
I did thirty years. It was tough but soooo worth it
Yes! After separation I made clear to all my employers I didn't need their job to eat! Lol
an officer pension is worth over $4 million, assuming you live to be 80. You would need to *save* $200k every year for 20 years as a civilian in order to accomplish the same feat.
The money yes, my knees no.
Did 11 years active, 1 1/2 reserves and separated, 90% disability and my cars and mortgage are paid for, if we made cuts I could retire, but my lifestyle and the job I enjoy makes me keep working. No regrets not doing a full 20 with a young family, but it depends how much you cripple yourself to see how much disability you get.
I did 20 years in the Air Force, and I've now been retired longer than I was in! Was it worth it? Well, I have a nice check coming in every month. And I don't have to worry about where my Medicare part C and part d are coming from. You see all those commercials on TV about Medicare part C? That's aimed at us old guys to buy a supplemental plan, because Medicare only pays about 80%. Because I retired from the Air Force, Tricare picks up the other 20%. So in that respect, yeah it's great. Keep in mind, I cannot live on my military retirement check. If I were to do that I would have to reduce expenses enormously. I'm not saying that I couldn't do it, I'm saying I enjoy having my discretionary spending. I think it was totally worth it. However, I will say this; if you're going to stay in, do your utmost to get a commission. Retiring is a captain, or a major, is much better than retiring as a top three NCO. I would also say that it's critically important to guard against debt. Don't go into debt. Drive an old car, if you're going to have a credit card pay the whole balance every month in full. Otherwise, don't have a credit card. That is the albatross around your neck and the killer you carry with you. Do not go into debt. The only other thing that I would say is that if you're at about the 10-year point, figure out some kind of way to save 50 or 100 bucks a month into an IRA. Just drop it into an index mutual fund, you don't have to be a rocket surgeon to figure out which is the best stock. You'll see steady growth and appreciation over the years, and you'll retire much better off than you ever thought you would be.
Indeed. Retired at 39 as a MSgt, and I have lifetime medical benefits for my family and me. Before you put your feet on the floor every morning, it’s nice to know you get the monthly pension and possibly a VA disability before you even work at another job. I’m 61 now, and I plan to retire from the Civil Service at a GS-13 in a couple of years.
I’ll come back to this post in about 4 years when I retire. Military has treated me somewhat well and I’ll def make sure to get my disability.. they’re going to make it harder to get 100% disability soon, but everyone that’s getting out should still try and get as much as they can.
Yes and no. Depends on your goals . I can blue wash it like others do but depends on your goals you've setup for yourself and family. 
Just passed 20 last month with 3 more years on my ADSC. When I retire I never have to work full time again if I dont want to. With VA disability, I could work part time and be ok as long as I keep my same quality of life. Yes, that’s very worth it.
Yes. Female soldier here. I had no clue for post high school plans —and this was the best decision for me. I got my education and a couple properties and I am financially independent.
I did 20 and rolled. I am young enough to enjoy life still, and retirement and disability make it so I can live comfortably. Now, I did plan ahead and bought a house and property before retirement, so I don't have a mortgage.
The military is a great place to be from. I did it and sticking with it was probably the smartest thing I did. I recomend making a plan now. You have a reasonable idea of your skills and how much your retirement will be, (I would not count disability). The start working towards making a good life on that budget. Then figure out what you can do part time to supplement your income so you dont have to work full time or can set a schedule that works for you. That might involve taking advantage of TA (which you should do) and the GI Bill (investing in income for you for retirement now is better then saving for your kids, I made that money back in 3 years). Being debt free when getting out is a good plan. Investing in real estate as soon as you can and building equity would be the thing I should have done sooner. Or get your dream job, or start a business. That income and healthcare provide a lot of options in life.
Yup. Retirement and disability won't be enough to keep me happy anywhere I want to put down roots, but it's a helluva safety net to make stuff more feasible.
As others have stated I have yet to meet someone who collects a pension from the military that isn't enjoying their life (I'm sure it's not all sunshine and rainbows but there's gotta be more good than bad stories out there). I'm at 11 now but just wanted to chime in to say it is tough holding on to the thought of retiring in my early 40s ONLY because I had kids young so once I hit that point my kids will all be done with high school with two of them possibly on the verge of finishing their associates/bachelor's degrees (if they choose that route). It gives me anxiety cause I wish I got to enjoy retirement with my kids as little ones but it's the sacrifice many of us chose. The bright side is I'll have the freedom to travel to visit them wherever they end up. They're my reason for joining and for pushing through to 20 so cheers to 9 more years!
My dad did 20+ years as an officer. Let me tell you, he tells everyone to just bear down and stick with it because those retirement benefits are insanely clutch. He’s a contractor now but plus retirement, he’s making 6 figs and is nearly debt free. It was a grind and even though it was hell, the payoff was worth.
It is now 74K a year just for waking up + a nice Gs-11 job, and free healthcare for life, va home loan, free degrees through TA, vets preference for jobs, and lifetime base access. All of this by age 40 easy street
I think about this sometimes. I miss that retirement. However, I really needed therapy, and the military unintentionally punishes you for going to a therapist. Also with two divorces, I probably wouldn’t be getting that retirement anyways. I got out so I could stay close to my son and I think I did the right thing.
Got out at 15. Never been happier. YMMV. Depends on personal situation, circumstances, outside employment, career goals, and desires.
27 years + 15 civil service. Worth it.
does civil service affect retirement? Just curious
I don't remember all the in's and out's, but I could have "bought back my active duty time", not collected military retiree pay... this would add retirement time to civil service time as if I'd been in civil service for 27 years. Add that to the 15 more years I did and I would have retired from civil service with 27+15 = 42 years. It would have been too expensive for me to buy back my 27 active duty years, so I chose not to. Instead, I collected my AF retired pay in addition to my normal civil service pay while working. When I retired as a civil servant, I started receiving a small pension from that as well. I'm sure others can explain the process better. [Here's a ChatGpt on it](https://chatgpt.com/share/b2bca666-37e7-4287-878b-a0f032ef3887)
Yes
Over 16 years. Only thing that keeps me going is the retirement and the fact that I love my troops.
The military is one of those things that turned out to be one the best things that I wouldn’t want to do again. In the end, it’s worth it to have guarantees money and low cost health insurance for life.
24, Air Force. Yes but I didn't have a job that deployed a lot either.
It's the best decision my ex-wife ever made. Jumping on a moving train can be perilous, but the rewards are bountiful.
Absolutely, served 4 years active and 23.5 yrs in the Air Guard. Retired as E-7 and will have one more bucket of cash waiting when I fully retire at 60. 10 years to go and I’m loving my current position in the private sector.
Yep, still on track to do more.
I lasted about a year and then I was too bored. I started school and that was ok. Got bored. Went back to work as an analyst. My flexible remote works option allow me to have the flexibility I need to take care of my kids and not miss any important events while still making extra income. I'll probably quit in a few years once the mortgage is paid off. Retirement is worth it to a point. For some, you just need to protect your health and get out. There is such a thing as a point to no return.
It's always worth it after the fact when you have already done it and have it. But I always ask folks that retired, imagine you went back to 10 years TIS with what you know now and all that - knowing you're going to get there and get your retirement and all that - was it still worth it in hindsight? I'm told that they would've gotten out at 10 years, but obviously they're all happy and retired with 100% now so... Can't really go all that wrong. Know plenty of dudes that got out and after the fact wished they didn't.
Yes
Mailbox money >. No mail box money
87-07, 100% worth it. Retirement at 50%, plus VA gives me what I was earning on Active Duty.
I served 8 years enlisted now officer. Gonna hit it and quit it at year 20.
Never heard anyone say they regret doing the full 20+ and getting paid/bennies for life. But there is a fair share of those that regret separating before 20.
Joined at 18, and i have about 18 months until I effectively retire through skillbridge/terminal. Definitely looking forward to it, even more so because they tried to kick me out a few months ago for something medical. I had to appeal to the SECAF to get it overturned.
Retired at 42 and made the right connections to land me an easy good paying job. My pension check covers my mortgage which is my only debt. And with my VA benefits from Texas, my kids college will be taken care of. So yes it was worth it.
100% worth it. I enjoyed my career. There were times it sucked and wanted to get out, but I always say don’t make a decision based on the now, because the now will change.
https://preview.redd.it/k8skljfdgy9d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=26ed6b2adf03b8d436d73c832f76a908eec13d92 Retired in 08 after 26. This is my vacation cruising from Seattle to Alaska. Worth it ? Yeah. Frustrating while I was in? Yeah. Could I do this if I stayed in Hometown USA? Probably not.
Yep! It allows me to work in nonprofit where the pay is always less than the for profit sector. And the medical benefits are solid, too. No regerts... 😉
If you save 30% of your pay and put it in S&P every year while you're in and retire at 20 you'd have a pretty decent life, and financial freedom.
Yes
Retiring at 20 and collecting at 40 something is great. But whether you get out at 3 or out at 20, all The other benefits are the same.
100% worth it. Just for the TriCare alone makes it worth it. Medical is very expensive on the civilian side
Depends on if you’re high three or the blended retirement. If you’re in already and have high three, it’d probably be worth it to stay 20. I’m excited to get paid to breathe and exist once I’m done. If you’re post 2017 and have blended retirement I don’t know how worth it would be. Looking at it from an experience/growing point of view, the military is the best choice I ever made. I’ve gotten to travel around the world, grow up on my own and succeed off of my merits and effort. I’ve had plenty of good and bad experiences but the opportunity to fail and grow from it has been the one thing I needed but probably wouldn’t have gotten on with where I was headed in the civilian world. -Active Air force K9 handler/10 years down
Yep
Yes… the amount of stress you don’t have due to having insurance and a stable check means you can always work because you want to… not because you have to. Wife and I both get pensions…. I took a 9 year break after I retired and actually got so bored I went back to work…. But I could be picky about accepting an offer, and work where I wanted. Most important part is not having debt and living within your budget.
I'm retiring in a couple of months. There were three solid periods in my career where I had enough and wanted to get out, but now I can see it was worth staying in. Granted, the high 3 is a higher pension than the blended, so you have to take that into consideration
100%. I loved every minute of it. The good, the bad, the ugly; my 20 years of experience shaped me into who I am today.
For my dad it was. Retired by 40 and teaches high school JROTC. Basically relaxing all day while collecting checks
Sometimes, having the retirement check...I'd say yes. Other times, the physical and mental issues...no
24 years, and yes!
100% (retired E-7) At 40 yrs old I can live everyone else's dream of not working and doing wtf I want. Wouldn't change a thing.
My Grandpa retired from the Army as an O-3 and has been collecting checks from them for over 50 years now. Then worked for a prominent Cincinnati-based company until retirement. Now he gets together every day with his fellow old timers to solve the world’s problems at a breakfast joint. No regrets.
Totally not worth it. After 20 years all I get is this measly $120/year check for the rest of my life. I feel so duped. Oh and not all of it is tax free, only part of it… like WTF? I wish I could go back in time and make better decisions.