CRSC vs CRDP
Military retirees with VA disability, see which concurrent receipt program pays you more. Compare side-by-side in seconds.
CRSC vs CRDP, what's the difference?
CRSC (Combat-Related Special Compensation): Tax-free monthly payment to compensate for VA offset of retirement pay. Requires combat-related disability. Apply through your branch.
CRDP (Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay): Restores the retired pay VA offsets. Automatic at 50%+ for 20-year and TERA retirees (not Chapter 61 retirees under 20 years). Taxable income.
You can only receive one at a time. CRSC often wins when most of your rating is combat-related because it is tax-free. CRDP usually wins when only a small part of your rating is combat-related, because it restores the full offset. See the full CRSC vs CRDP comparison guide for a detailed breakdown of eligibility rules, application steps, and real-dollar examples.
A successful CRSC award often includes retroactive pay going back to your application date. Use the VA back pay calculator to estimate your lump-sum retroactive payment.
Common questions
Can I receive both CRSC and CRDP?
No. You can only receive one at a time. If you qualify for both, DFAS pays whichever is larger and lets you switch during the annual open season each January. Because CRSC is tax-free and CRDP is taxable, compare them after tax, which is what the calculator above does.
Who qualifies for CRSC?
Military retirees with VA-rated disabilities that your branch rules combat-related: caused by armed conflict, hazardous duty, training that simulates war, or an instrumentality of war. Conditions tied to a Purple Heart qualify. You apply through your own branch of service, not through VA.
Who qualifies for CRDP?
Retirees with 20 or more years of service (or TERA early retirement) and a combined VA rating of 50% or higher. CRDP is automatic, so there is nothing to apply for. Chapter 61 medical retirees with fewer than 20 years do not qualify for CRDP.
Why does CRDP sometimes pay more than CRSC?
CRSC only pays for the combat-related part of your rating, while CRDP restores the full amount VA offsets. If only a small part of your rating is combat-related, CRDP usually wins even after taxes.