Navigating the benefits available to veterans who have sustained service-related injuries can be overwhelming. If you are new to Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), you may have questions about what it covers, who qualifies, and how to submit a strong application.
At Peña & Bromberg, we assist veterans and their families throughout California and across the United States, helping them understand and navigate the disability benefit process so they can pursue the support they may be entitled to.
Understanding Combat-Related Special Compensation
Combat-Related Special Compensation is a program that restores some or all of the military retirement pay that veterans forgo when receiving VA disability compensation. Normally, a retired service member cannot collect full military retirement pay and full VA disability compensation simultaneously. CRSC provides financial relief for veterans whose disabilities are a direct result of combat-related circumstances.
It is important to note that CRSC is not automatically granted. Veterans must apply, and approval depends on demonstrating that the disability is directly connected to qualifying combat-related events.
What Counts as “Combat-Related”?
The term “combat-related” may seem straightforward, but many veterans are unsure whether their disabilities qualify. Conditions may be considered combat-related if they result from:
- Armed conflict: Injuries or conditions sustained during direct engagement with hostile forces.
- Hazardous service: Activities such as combat training, parachuting, demolition exercises, flight duties, or other high-risk operations.
- Simulated war: Injuries occurring during realistic combat training exercises, including live-fire drills or field exercises.
- Instrumentality of war: Injuries resulting from military vehicles, weapons, or equipment designed for combat, even outside an active combat zone.
The connection between a disability and these categories must be documented through service records. Veterans often feel overwhelmed when compiling this evidence, especially if their service records are extensive or span multiple assignments.
Eligibility Requirements for CRSC
Veterans must generally meet the following criteria to be eligible for CRSC:
- Receiving military retired pay: This includes longevity retirement, Temporary or Permanent Disability Retirement (TDRL/PDRL), and sometimes reserve retirement.
- VA disability rating of at least 10 percent.
- Disability documented as combat-related: Evidence may include service records, medical reports, personnel records, or official findings from the Armed Forces.
- Waiver of military retired pay to receive VA compensation: CRSC restores a portion of the waived amount.
Determining eligibility can be complex, and many veterans are uncertain whether their conditions qualify. Peña & Bromberg help veterans review eligibility criteria and prepare well-supported applications.
Key Evidence to Support a CRSC Application
Providing the proper documentation is essential to a successful CRSC claim. Vital records often include:
- Service Treatment Records (STRs): Show when injuries or symptoms first occurred and how they were treated.
- VA Rating Decisions: Document the VA’s disability determination and which conditions are linked to service.
- DD-214 and Personnel Records: Detail assignments, deployments, MOS, and awards that may show combat-related service.
- Incident Reports or Line of Duty Documents: Help connect injuries to specific events.
- Post-Service Medical Records: Demonstrate how the condition has progressed over time.
Veterans may be unsure how to organize or prioritize these documents. Peña & Bromberg review records, identify gaps, and guide veterans in assembling a complete submission.
Applying for Combat-Related Special Compensation
The application process varies by branch of service. Key steps include:
1. Complete the Branch-Specific CRSC Application
Each military branch provides its own form and instructions, which typically ask for information about the disability, circumstances of the injury, and VA rating.
2. Gather Supporting Documentation
Include copies of VA decisions, service treatment records, personnel files, and other documents linking the disability to combat-related circumstances.
3. Submit the Application
Applications are submitted directly to the relevant military branch’s CRSC office, not the VA.
4. Await Review
Processing times vary. The reviewing office will evaluate whether each disability is clearly combat-related.
5. Receive a Decision Letter
Approved applicants receive a letter detailing which conditions qualify and the effective date of compensation.
This process can be confusing, especially when service records are incomplete or complex. Peña & Bromberg help veterans navigate these steps, review applications, and present evidence clearly.
How Peña & Bromberg Supports Veterans
Veterans often feel frustrated when trying to understand the CRSC process on their own. Our team brings experience and clarity, guiding veterans through the submission process and helping them know eligibility, evidence requirements, and best practices for presenting their case.
We focus on each veteran’s unique situation, examining service history and medical documentation to identify evidence that strengthens the application. This personalized guidance can reduce confusion and improve confidence throughout the process.
Contact Peña & Bromberg Today
The Combat-Related Special Compensation process can feel daunting, especially when dealing with multiple conditions or extensive service records. You do not have to face it alone.
Peña & Bromberg can help you understand your options, review your documentation, and guide you through every step of the application process. For assistance, call (559) 439-9700 or visit our website to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC)?
CRSC restores military retired pay for veterans whose disabilities are combat-related. It helps service members who must waive retired pay to receive VA disability compensation. CRSC is not automatic and requires an application.
2. What evidence is needed to support a CRSC claim?
Applicants need service treatment records, VA rating decisions, DD-214 forms, and other personnel or medical documentation. The evidence must clearly link the disability to combat-related circumstances. Proper organization of these records is crucial.
3. How do I apply for CRSC?
Applications are submitted to the specific military branch, not the VA. Complete the branch-specific form, gather supporting documents, and submit them for review. Clear documentation can improve the chances of a smooth process.
