⇒

Blank Dd 2860 PDF Template

The DD 2860 form serves as an application for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC). It allows military retirees to claim benefits for injuries or health conditions linked to combat service. Completing this form accurately and providing the necessary documentation is vital for establishing eligibility and determining the compensation amount. For assistance in filling out the form correctly, click the button below.

Make This Document Now

Navigation

For many military retirees, navigating the complexities of benefits can seem like a daunting task, especially when it comes to understanding specific compensation related to injuries or conditions linked to combat. One such benefit, the Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), is designed to offer financial compensation to those who have suffered combat-related injuries, and the key to accessing these benefits lies in completing the DD Form 2860. This form serves a crucial purpose—it allows military retirees to submit a claim to their respective branch of the armed forces for review, ensuring they receive the appropriate compensation for their sacrifices. The form requires detailed information about the claimant's service history, specific disabilities being claimed, and any accompanying documentation that supports the combat-related nature of these injuries. It's vital for claimants to fill out the form accurately and comprehensively, using supplementary documents from personal or government records to substantiate their claims. Assistance in completing the form can be sought from various agencies, depending on the claimant's branch of service, ranging from the Army to the Public Health Service. Moreover, the form emphasizes the importance of choosing between CRSC and other forms of compensation, such as Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP), as claimants cannot receive both simultaneously. This decision can have significant financial implications for the retiree, making it all the more critical to approach the form with care and consideration for every detail.

Preview - Dd 2860 Form

CLAIM FOR COMBAT-RELATED SPECIAL COMPENSATION (CRSC)

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT

AUTHORITY: 10 U.S. Code Section 1413a; DoD Financial Management Regulation, Volume 7B Chapter 63; and E.O. 9397 (SSN).

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE(S): Used by a military retiree to submit a claim through the appropriate uniformed service for Combat- Related Special Compensation (CRSC). Claim is reviewed to determine eligibility for benefits, and determine the amount and effective dates of payment.

ROUTINE USE(S): Information is provided to individuals authorized to receive retired and annuitant payments on behalf of retirees or annuitants.

DISCLOSURE: Voluntary; however, failure to provide any required information may result in member not being considered eligible for CRSC.

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

Complete this form carefully and accurately.

To submit a valid claim you must complete the ENTIRE FORM and SIGN IT IN SECTION VI (bottom of Page 3). Unsigned claim

forms will not be processed.

Complete and submit this form (pages 1 - 3 ONLY) to apply for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC). Print, type, or use a computer and provide the best information available. If you do not know the answer, enter "Don't Know" or "DK". Do not leave any

item blank. You must identify the disabilities that you are claiming.

It is your responsibility to provide supporting documents from personal or government records, so make sure you supply all documentation necessary to verify this claim.

If you need assistance completing this form, consult with the agency from which you retired (or another agency, as appropriate).

Army: http://www.crsc.army.mil/

Navy & Marine Corps: http://www.hq.navy.mil/corb/crscb/combatrelated.htm

Air Force: http://ask.afpc.randolph.af.mil

DoD: http://www.defenselink.mil/prhome/crsc.html

DFAS: http://www.dod.mil/dfas/retiredpay/combat-relatedspecialcompensationcrsc.html

Coast Guard: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cgpc/adm/adm1.htm

Sign and date your claim. Enclose with your claim a clean legible copy of any supporting documents listed on page 3. Mail your claim to the address listed below for the Uniformed Service from which you retired.

DO NOT SEND ANY ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS, AS THEY WILL NOT BE RETURNED.

Send your claim to the address listed below for the Uniformed Service from which you retired.

ARMY:		COAST GUARD:
Department of the Army		Commander (PSC-PSD-de)
Army Human Resources Command		Personnel Service Center
ATTN: AHRC-PDP-V		U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7200
1600 Spearhead Division Avenue, Dept. 480		4200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 1100
Fort Knox, KY 40122		Arlington, VA 20598-7200
eFAX 1-502-613-9550
NAVY AND MARINE CORPS:		NOAA CORPS:
Secretary of the Navy		Director, Commissioned Personnel Center
Council of Review Boards		8403 Colesville Road, Suite 500
ATTN: Combat Related Special Compensation Branch		Silver Spring, MD 20910-6333
720 Kennon Street SE, Suite 309
Washington Navy Yard, DC 20374-5023
AIR FORCE:		PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE:
United States Air Force		United States Public Health Service
Disability Division (CRSC)		Compensation Branch
HQ AFPC/DPPDC		Program Support Center, ESS
550 C Street West, Suite 6		5600 Fishers Lane, Room 4-50
Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4708		Rockville, MD 20857-0001

DD FORM 2860, JUL 2011	PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE.		General Purpose Sheet
	DO NOT MAIL THIS PAGE.		Adobe Designer 8.0

CLAIM FOR COMBAT-RELATED SPECIAL COMPENSATION (CRSC)

	SECTION I - PERSONAL INFORMATION

1. NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)		7. MAILING ADDRESS
		a. STREET (Include apartment number or P.O. Box)

2. SOCIAL SECURITY OR	3. RETIRED RANK/RATE
EMPLOYEE ID NUMBER

4. DATE OF BIRTH (YYYYMMDD)	5. TELEPHONE (Include area code)	b. CITY	c. STATE

6. E-MAIL ADDRESS

d. ZIP CODE

SECTION II - PRELIMINARY REQUIREMENTS

8. MARK (X) NEXT TO THE APPROPRIATE ANSWER FOR EACH QUESTION.

QUALIFICATION BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2008

a. Were you entitled to retired pay for regular service, having completed at least 20 years of service prior to	YES	NO

January 1, 2008?

OR	YES	NO
b. Were you entitled to retired pay for reserve service, having completed at least 20 years of combined active
and reserve service and having reached age 60 prior to January 1, 2008?

OR	YES	NO
OR	YES	NO
c. Were you entitled to retired pay for reserve service under the Reserve TERA program having completed at
least 15 but less than 20 years of combined active and reserve service and having reached age 60 prior to

January 1, 2008?
NOTE: You must provide proof of the retirement authority by attaching a copy of your Retirement Orders and/
or a copy of your 15 year letter. Evidence must clearly state that you were a reservist and you retired under
Section 12731a of title 10, United States Code.
Section 12731a of title 10, United States Code.

QUALIFICATION ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2008
	YES	NO
d. Are you currently entitled to military retired pay for any reason, other than early reserve retirement for
physical disabilities not incurred in line of duty (i.e., other than section 12731b of title 10, United States
Code?

NOTE: If you answered NO to all questions a through d above, you are not eligible for CRSC.

SECTION III - SERVICE HISTORY

You must provide copies of evidence needed to verify this information (i.e., DD214's, awards, evaluations, etc.).

9.FROM WHICH SERVICE DID YOU RETIRE? Provide a copy of your retirement orders or "retirement" DD214. To expedite this claim it is important that you mail your claim to the service you retired from.

ARMY	NAVY/USMC	AIR FORCE

NOAA CORPS	COAST GUARD	PUBLIC HEALTH

10.DID YOU SERVE IN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING WARS OR COMBAT OPERATIONS? (X all that apply) (Provide a copy of a DD214/award citation or any other evidence that verifies ANY combat service.)

WWI

WWII

KOREAN

WAR

VIETNAM

GULF WAR

OIF/OEF

OTHER (e.g., a SF Ops mission - explain where and when and provide evidence.)

11. WERE YOU EVER A PRISONER OF WAR (POW)?

If YES, indicate Where/When/How long (Provide any official evidence available):

YES


DD FORM 2860, JUL 2011	Page 1

CLAIM FOR COMBAT-RELATED SPECIAL COMPENSATION (CRSC)

NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)

SOCIAL SECURITY OR EMPLOYEE ID NUMBER

NOTE: To ensure the review of all of your requested disabilities, limit ONE disability for each page. You are authorized to make additional copies of this page for any additional disabilities. You may list any secondary conditions that are connected to a disability on the bottom of the sheet that it has been connected to. In order to award any disability as secondary we must have a copy of the evidence from VA or from your medical records which clearly states that the condition is the result of the primary condition you are requesting. Good evidence could include a VA rating decision that clearly states (for example), "hypertension is secondary to diabetes."

It is your responsibility to supply any evidence necessary to verify this disability is combat-related.

SECTION IV - REQUEST FOR COMBAT-RELATEDNESS DETERMINATION

12. VA FILE NUMBER (If known)

13. DISABILITY DESCRIPTION
a. TITLE OF DISABILITY (As written on the VA rating decision.)			b. BODY PART AFFECTED. (e.g., right knee)

c. VA DISABILITY CODE (If known)	d. DATE AWARDED BY VA	e. INITIAL RATING % BY THE VA		f. CURRENT RATING % BY
	(YYYYMMDD)			THE VA

g. COMBAT-RELATED CODE (Mark (X) the code that best describes what caused the disability.) (See Appendix A for code descriptions.)

PH	AC	HS	SW	IN	AO	RE	GW or MG
PURPLE	ARMED	HAZARDOUS	SIMULATING	INSTRUMENT	AGENT	RADIATION	GULF WAR or
HEART	CONFLICT	SERVICE	WAR	OF WAR	ORANGE		MUSTARD GAS

h. UNIT OF ASSIGNMENT WHEN INJURED				i. LOCATION/AREA OF ASSIGNMENT WHEN INJURED

j.IN YOUR OWN WORDS, DESCRIBE THE EVENTS SURROUNDING THE DISABILITY AND HOW IT MEETS THE GUIDELINES OF COMBAT- RELATED.

k. DID YOU RECEIVE A PURPLE HEART (PH) FOR THIS INJURY? If YES, attach documentation to verify that you were awarded a PH and any evidence that proves what occurred or what body part was injured.

NOTE: Proof of being awarded a PH does not always allow us to award a disability as PH. We need to know what the PH was awarded for. For example, send the medevac report and DD214.

l.DID VA EVER DOCUMENT THAT THIS CONDITION CAUSED SECONDARY DISABILITIES? If YES, you must provide evidence from VA or your medical records which state that the conditions listed in item 13.m., below, are indeed caused by the primary condition listed above. We cannot award any condition as secondary without evidence to support the claim. Attach the VA rating decision for all secondary conditions.

NOTE: If YES, list all secondary conditions in item 13.m., below.

YES

N/A

YES

m. VA DETERMINED THAT THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS ARE SECONDARY CONDITIONS TO THE PRIMARY DISABILITY (Listed in item 13.a., above).

(1)DISABILITY CODE

(2) DESCRIPTION

(3)% AWARDED BY VA

(4)DATE AWARDED (YYYYMMDD)

DD FORM 2860, JUL 2011

Page 2 - Sheet		of

CLAIM FOR COMBAT-RELATED SPECIAL COMPENSATION (CRSC)

NAME (Last, First, Middle Initial)

SOCIAL SECURITY OR EMPLOYEE ID NUMBER

SECTION V - REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

14.In order to process your claim the following records (if applicable) must be submitted with this claim. Do not send ANY original documents - COPIES only!

a.All DD214's and DD215's (especially if for retirement or showing combat ribbons).

b.Retirement orders and supporting documents.

c.Reserve Retirement point computation including any 15-year or 20-year letter (if applicable).

d.Copies of ALL VA Rating Decisions, letters, and code sheets (current and prior). Do NOT remove any pages. All VA documents discussing changes in benefits including Special Monthly Compensation (SCM) and/or Individual Unemployability (IU).

e.Medical records or notes that verify how the injury/disability occurred. (Do NOT send EKGs, lab slips, CDs, diskettes or other electronic media.)

f.Physical Evaluation Board (MEB-PEB) results and/or summaries.

g.Any evidence which can be used to verify the events or circumstances.

SECTION VI - CERTIFICATION AND WAIVER OF CONCURRENT RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY PAYMENTS (CRDP)

15.Complete this section to enable the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) or the applicable pay center for non-DoD retirees to make any CRSC payments you qualify to receive.

a.I understand that if I am eligible for both Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP) under 10 U.S.C., section

1414 and Special Compensation for Certain Combat-Related Disabled Uniformed Service Retirees under 10 U.S.C., section 1413a (CRSC), I may not receive both, but must elect which to receive.

b.I understand that if my election results in any retroactive payments, any previously paid amounts of CRDP, SCSD, or CRSC for that period of time will be deducted from any amount due for that period.

c.Under penalties of perjury, the information provided above is true to the best of my knowledge and belief and provided with the full knowledge of the penalties for making false statements (18 U.S.C. 287 and 1001 provide for a penalty of not more than $10,000 fine, or 5 years in prison, or both; 31 U.S.C. 3279 provides civil penalties; and 31 U.S.C. 3802 provides administrative penalties).

d.I hereby understand that payments will be deposited to my account of record for Uniformed Services retired pay if I amcurrently receiving such payments. Otherwise, they will be made to the account of record for my VA disability compensation. After payments begin, I must advise DFAS or the applicable non-DoD pay center of any changes to my account.

e. SIGNATURE

f. DATE SIGNED (YYYYMMDD)

DD FORM 2860, JUL 2011

Page 3

APPENDIX A - COMBAT-RELATED CODES

PURPLE HEART (PH) - The disability resulted from an injury for which you were awarded the Purple Heart. Evidence should clearly show that the injury was associated with an incident involving armed conflict, such as shrapnel wounds due to a mortar attack. Documentation must include a copy of the Purple Heart citation and DD Form 214 reflecting the award and injury, or the Purple Heart citation, and excerpts from the Service Medical Record that correspond to the date and document the treatment of the Purple Heart injury.

DIRECT RESULT OF ARMED CONFLICT (AC) - The disability was incurred in the line of duty as a direct result of armed conflict. The fact that a member incurred the disability during a period of war or an area of armed conflict or while participating in combat operations is not sufficient by itself to support a combat-related determination. There must be a definite, documented, causal relationship between the armed conflict and the resulting disability. Armed conflict includes a war, expedition, occupation of an area or territory, battle, skirmish, raid, invasion, rebellion, insurrection, guerrilla action, riot, or any other action in which Service members are engaged with a hostile or belligerent nation, faction, force, or terrorists. Armed conflict may also include such situations as incidents involving a member whileinterned as a prisoner of war or while detained against his or her will in custody of a hostile or belligerent force or while escaping or attempting to escape from such confinement, prisoner of war, or detained status.

IN THE PERFORMANCE OF DUTY UNDER CONDITIONS SIMULATING WAR (SW). - The disability was incurred in the line of duty as a result of simulating armed conflict. The fact that a member incurred the disability during a period of simulating war or in an area of simulated armed conflict or while participating in simulated combat operations is not sufficient by itself to support a combat-related determination. There must be a definite, documented, causal relationship between the simulated armed conflict and the resulting disability. In general, this covers disabilities resulting from simulated combat activity during military training, such as war games, practice alerts, tactical exercises, airborne operations, grenade and live fire weapons practice, bayonet training, hand-to-hand combat training, rappelling, and negotiation of combat confidence and obstacle courses while in full combat gear. Physical training activities such as calisthenics and jogging or formation running and supervised sports activities are not included.

WHILE ENGAGED IN HAZARDOUS SERVICE (HS) - The disability was incurred during performance of duties that present a higher degree of danger to Service personnel due to the level of exposure to actual or simulated armed conflict. The fact that a member incurred the disability during a period of hazardous service is not sufficient by itself to support a combat-related determination. There must be a definite, documented, causal relationship between the hazardous service and the resulting disability. Such service includes, but is not limited to, aerial flight, parachute duty, demolition duty, experimental stress duty, diving duty, and rescue missions.

INSTRUMENTALITY OF WAR (IN) - The disability was incurred in the line of duty as a result of an instrumentality of war. An instrumentality of war is a vehicle, vessel, or device designed primarily for Military Service and intended for use in such Service at the time of the occurrence or injury. Incurrence during an actual period of war is not required; however, there must be a direct, documented, causalrelationship between the instrumentality of war and the resulting disability. The disability must be incurred incident to a hazard or risk of service and be caused by the device itself. Instrumentalities not designed primarily for Military Service if use of, or occurrence involving, such instrumentality subjects the individual to a hazard peculiar to Military Service, are included. Such use or occurrence differs from the use or occurrence under similar circumstances in civilian pursuits. An example of this would be injuries sustained while engaging in pugil stick training using a broomstick, where the broomstick replaces the weapon and causes the injury. A determination that a disability is the result of an instrumentality of war may be made if the disability was incurred in any period of service as a result of such diverse causes as wounds caused by a military weapon, accidents involving a military combat vehicle, injury or sickness caused by fumes, gases, or explosion of military ordnance, vehicles, or material. For example, if a member is on a field exercise and is engaged in sporting activity and falls and strikes an armored vehicle, the injury will not be considered to result from the instrumentality of war (armored vehicle) because it was the sporting activity that was the cause of the injury, not the vehicle. On the other hand, if the individual was engaged in the same sporting activity and the armored vehicle struck the member, the injury would be considered the result of an instrumentality of war.

AGENT ORANGE (AO) - The disability was incurred as a result of Agent Orange exposure (herbicides). For these disabilities to be considered combat related, they must be specifically granted by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as presumptive to Agent Orange exposure (herbicides). For consideration, the initial VA Rating Decision for the claimed disability must show not just Service connection, but the specific causes of the condition; such as, member has Diabetes due to Agent Orange exposure (herbicides). In addition, for secondary conditions to be granted as combat related, they must be specifically granted by the VA as secondary to the Agent Orangecondition; such as, member's Hypertension is secondary to Agent Orange Diabetes. If the conditions were diagnosed after Vietnam serviceand prior to retirement, evidence must show the date of diagnosis and proof of Vietnam service. Proof of Vietnam service can include but is not limited to service medical records, evaluations, decoration citations, travel vouchers or PCS orders.

RADIATION EXPOSURE (RE) - The disability was incurred as a result of combat-related radiation exposure. Combat-related radiation exposure includes documented, onsite participation in a test involving the atmospheric detonation of a nuclear device; the occupation of Hiroshima or Nagasaki, Japan, by the United States forces during the period beginning on August 6, 1945, and ending on July 1, 1946; internment as a prisoner of war in Japan during World War II; or service in Paducah, Kentucky, Portsmouth, Ohio; or the area identified as K25 at Oak Ridge, Tennessee for at least 250 days before February 1, 1992.

GULF WAR (GW), MUSTARD GAS OR LEWISITE (MG) - These codes relate to disabilities awarded by the VA on the basis of presumption relating to service in the Persian Gulf War or exposure to Mustard Gas or Lewisite, even though there is no direct connection and the disability did not occur immediately. For consideration, the initial VA Rating Decision for the claimed disability must show notjust Service connection, but the specific cause of the condition, such as, member has developed Fibromyalgia from service in the Persian Gulf War. Documentation should also describe the place, period, and conditions of exposure. In addition, for secondary conditions to be granted as combat-related, they must be specifically granted by the VA as secondary to the condition developed from service in the Persian Gulf War or exposure to Mustard Gas or Lewisite; such as, member's Scars are secondary to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder from exposure to Mustard Gas.

DD FORM 2860, JUL 2011

DO NOT MAIL THIS PAGE.

Appendix A

Download Dd 2860 PDF Form

Form Data

Fact Name	Description
Form Title	Claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC)
Authority	10 U.S. Code Section 1413a; DoD Financial Management Regulation, Volume 7B Chapter 63; E.O. 9397 (SSN)
Principal Purpose	Submission of claim by military retiree for CRSC, determining eligibility for benefits, and establishing payment amounts and dates
Routine Uses	Information provided to authorized individuals for the distribution of retired and annuitant payments
Disclosure	Voluntary, but necessary for eligibility consideration
Submission Requirements	Complete entire form and include signature in Section VI
Service Branch Addresses	Addresses provided for Army, Coast Guard, Navy and Marine Corps, NOAA Corps, Air Force, and Public Health Service
Form Number and Edition	DD FORM 2860, JUL 2011. Previous edition is obsolete
Documentation for Submission	Include DD214/215's, retirement orders, VA rating decisions, medical evidence, and any relevant proof of combat-related injuries
Definition of Combat-Related	Appendix A details specific criteria and codes for classifying a disability as combat-related, including exposure to hazardous conditions, instrumentalities of war, and certain health conditions connected to combat service

Instructions on Utilizing Dd 2860

To successfully apply for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), it is imperative to meticulously complete the DD 2860 form. This submission is a crucial step for military retirees in asserting their claims for benefits tied to combat-related injuries. Applicants must provide comprehensive, accurate information and attach all necessary documentation to support their eligibility and the extent of their claims. Following the step-by-step instructions below will ensure the form is filled out correctly, significantly enhancing the likelihood of a favorable review.

Begin with Section I - Personal Information. Fill out your full name, social security or employee ID number, retired rank/rate, date of birth, telephone number, and email. For the mailing address, include street, city, state, and zip code.
In Section II - Preliminary Requirements, mark the appropriate answers regarding your qualification for CRSC before or on/after January 1, 2008. Include proof of retirement authority if applicable.
For Section III - Service History, indicate from which service you retired and check any wars or combat operations you served in. If you were a prisoner of war, provide specifics and evidence.
Section IV - Request for Combat-Relatedness Determination requires detailed information about each disability you're claiming. If needed, make additional copies of this section for multiple disabilities. Include the disability title, body part affected, VA disability code if known, and the dates awarded by the VA. Mark the combat-related code that best describes the cause of the disability and provide a narrative on the event causing the disability, including if a Purple Heart was awarded. List any secondary conditions deemed related by the VA.
In Section V - Required Documentation, check that you have included all necessary documents such as DD214/215s, retirement orders, VA rating decisions, medical records verifying the injury, and any other relevant evidence. Remember, send copies, not original documents.
Complete Section VI - Certification and Waiver of Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP). Read and understand the declarations regarding the choice between CRDP and CRSC, acknowledge the penalty for false statements, input your banking information for payments, and sign and date the form.

After carefully completing the form and ensuring all supporting documentation is attached, mail your claim to the designated address for your branch of service. Addresses for each branch are provided on the form. Remember, presentation and completeness of your application can significantly affect the outcome, so take your time to fill it out accurately and thoroughly.

Obtain Answers on Dd 2860

FAQs about the DD Form 2860 - Claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC)

What is the purpose of the DD Form 2860?
The DD Form 2860 is used by military retirees to submit a claim for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC). This form allows eligible individuals to receive compensation for disabilities that are combat-related. It is a process to determine eligibility for benefits, including the amount and effective dates of payment.
Who is eligible to apply for CRSC using the DD Form 2860?
Eligibility is determined based on service requirements and the nature of the disability. To be eligible, you must be a military retiree with disabilities that are considered combat-related. There are specific criteria detailed in the preliminary section of the form, such as being entitled to military retired pay before January 1, 2008, or being currently entitled to military retired pay, excluding certain early reserve retirement conditions.
What documentation is required when submitting the DD Form 2860?
Applicants must provide copies of all relevant documents, including DD214's/215's showing retirement or combat ribbons, retirement orders, reserve retirement point computation, all VA Rating Decisions and letters, medical records demonstrating how injuries occurred, and any evidence verifying combat-related events or circumstances. Remember, only copies should be submitted, as original documents will not be returned.
How do I submit the DD Form 2860?
Complete the form accurately and sign Section VI. Attach all required documentation to support your claim. Mail your claim to the address corresponding to the uniformed service from which you retired. There are specific addresses listed for the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, NOAA Corps, and Public Health Service.
What should I do if I don't have all the information requested on the form?
If you don't have all the information requested, enter "Don't Know" or "DK" in the space provided. It's crucial not to leave any item blank. However, note that failure to provide required information might result in the claim not being considered eligible for CRSC.
Is there assistance available for completing the DD Form 2860?
Yes, if you need help completing this form, you should consult with the agency from which you retired or another appropriate agency. There are websites and contact information provided for each branch of the service, which can offer further guidance and assistance in completing and submitting your CRSC claim.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DD Form 2860 for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) requires careful attention to detail. Unfortunately, people often make mistakes during the process, which can lead to delays or even denial of their claim. Here are four common mistakes to avoid:

Leaving Sections Blank: One of the most common errors is leaving sections of the form blank. If a question does not apply or the answer is unknown, it’s important to write "Don't Know" or "DK" rather than leaving the space empty. This ensures that the form is seen as complete and can be processed without unnecessary holdups.
Not Signing the Form: Forgetting to sign and date Section VI of the form can stall the review process. A signature is crucial as it confirms the accuracy of the information provided and agrees to the terms stated in the certification and waiver section. Without a signature, the claim cannot be processed.
Inadequate Documentation: Another common mistake involves failing to provide sufficient documentation to support the claim. It's essential to include copies of all relevant documents, such as medical records, DD214s, retirement orders, and VA rating decisions. These documents are vital for verifying the combat-related nature of your disabilities.
Misunderstanding Eligibility: Sometimes, individuals may misinterpret the eligibility requirements and submit a claim despite not meeting the necessary criteria. Before filling out the form, it’s important to carefully read and understand the preliminary requirements specified in Section II to confirm eligibility for CRSC.

Avoiding these common mistakes can improve the accuracy and completeness of your CRSC claim, helping to streamline the review process.

Documents used along the form

Applying for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) involves more than just filling out and submitting the DD 2860 form. Applicants often need to supply additional documents and forms to support their claim. These supplements serve to verify the claim, detail the nature of injuries, and outline the applicant's service history, among other aspects. Understanding these documents and their purpose can greatly assist in the application process.

DD214/ DD215 - These documents serve as a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. They are crucial for verifying military service, retirement status, and any combat-related honors or distinctions, which are vital for a CRSC claim.
Retirement Orders - These orders provide proof of a retiree's official release from active duty and transition to retired status, including the date of retirement, which is needed to determine eligibility for CRSC.
Reserve Retirement Points Statement - For Reserve members, this statement is necessary to show the accumulation of retirement points, indicating years of service, which can affect CRSC eligibility and payment amounts.
VA Rating Decision and Letters - These documents are issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs and are essential in illustrating the connection between the claimed disability and military service, as well as detailing the disability rating percentage.
Service Medical Records - Medical records can provide detailed evidence of the injuries sustained and the link to combat, serving as a critical component of the CRSC application by substantiating the claim of combat-related disabilities.
Orders and Citations for Medals or Decorations - Documentation of awards, especially those for valor or injuries received in combat, such as the Purple Heart, can directly support the combat-related nature of injuries or conditions.
Combat-Related Injury Documentation - Besides medical records, any official documentation describing the incident that led to the injury can be instrumental in proving a disability is combat-related. This might include after-action reports or witness statements.
Power of Attorney (POA) and Privacy Act Release Forms - For applicants who have a designated representative managing their affairs, a POA and signed Privacy Act releases are required for the representative to act on the applicant's behalf and request information.

Successfully navigating the CRSC application process entails gathering and submitting these forms and documents comprehensively and accurately. They collectively paint a detailed picture of the retiree's service and the injuries sustained, ensuring the Department of Defense has all necessary information to make an informed decision on the claim. Assistance can be sought from legal advisors, veteran service organizations, or the relevant branch's retirement services office to ensure all documentation is properly prepared and submitted.

Similar forms

The DD 214 Form, commonly referred to as the "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," shares similarities with the DD 2860 form in that it is used by military members upon retirement or separation from service. Just like the DD 2860, it contains vital information about a service member's career, including details about combat service and injuries, which can be crucial for claiming combat-related special compensation. Both forms serve as key documentation for veterans to access benefits and establish eligibility based on service records.
The VA Form 21-526EZ, "Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits," is another document that parallels the DD 2860 form. It is used by veterans to apply for disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Similar to the DD 2860 form, it requires veterans to detail their service-connected injuries or conditions, provide supporting documentation, and specify if any of the claimed conditions are combat-related. Both forms play critical roles in determining a veteran's eligibility for certain benefits based on injury or illness incurred during military service.
The Standard Form 180, "Request Pertaining to Military Records," though primarily a request form for military personnel records, shares a functional similarity with the DD 2860 form. Both are essential for veterans and military retirees seeking to obtain documentation that supports claims for benefits. The SF-180 is often used to request documents like the DD 214 or medical records, which may then support a claim made on the DD 2860 for combat-related special compensation by providing proof of combat injuries or awards such as the Purple Heart.
The VA Form 22-1995, "Request for Change of Program or Place of Training," while focused on education benefits, similarly requires veterans to provide personal and service-related information to access VA benefits. Like the DD 2860 form, it involves an application process where the veteran's service history plays a crucial role in determining eligibility. Both forms are examples of how veterans must navigate the administrative process and complete specific documentation to access the benefits earned through their service.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DD Form 2860 for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC), it’s important to avoid common errors that could delay your claim. Below are ten dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

Do read the entire form and accompanying instructions carefully before you begin.
Do complete every section of the form to the best of your ability. If a question doesn’t apply to you, enter “N/A” (not applicable) or “DK” (don’t know) if you’re unsure.
Do provide clear, concise descriptions of your disabilities and how they are combat-related. Include information about the circumstances under which they occurred.
Do ensure all required documentation is included with your claim. This includes all DD214’s, medical records, and any substantive evidence of your injuries being combat-related.
Do make and keep copies of everything you send for your own records. Never send original documents.
Don't leave any section blank. Incomplete forms can result in processing delays or rejections of your claim.
Don't hesitate to seek help if you need assistance completing the form. Resources are available through your branch of service or the contact information listed on the form.
Don't forget to sign and date Section VI of the form. Unsigned forms are not processed.
Don't underestimate the importance of providing a clear and detailed account of how each disability is combat-related. This could be the key to your claim's approval.
Don't send the form and accompanying documents to the wrong address. Make sure to send your claim to the appropriate service address listed.

By following these tips, you can improve the chances that your claim will be processed efficiently and without unnecessary delay.

Misconceptions

There are several common misconceptions about the DD Form 2860, the application for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC). Understanding these misconceptions is crucial for military retirees seeking to submit a claim accurately.

Misconception 1: Any veteran can apply.

This is incorrect. Only military retirees who meet specific eligibility criteria related to retirement and combat-related injuries can apply for CRSC.

Misconception 2: CRSC is automatically granted upon application.

In fact, eligibility determination involves a detailed review of the application, including military and medical records, to ascertain if the injuries are combat-related.

Misconception 3: All injuries or disabilities qualify for CRSC.

Only those disabilities that are determined to be combat-related by the reviewing authority are eligible for CRSC.

Misconception 4: Submission of incomplete form is acceptable if unsure about certain details.

Submitting an incomplete form can delay the processing time. If uncertain, applicants should seek assistance rather than leave sections blank.

Misconception 5: Original documents must be submitted with the claim.

The instructions explicitly state not to send original documents, but only copies, as originals will not be returned.

Misconception 6: Assistance during the application process is unnecessary.

Consulting with the appropriate agency, as listed on the form, can provide valuable guidance and increase the likelihood of a successful claim.

Misconception 7: Any military documentation is sufficient for supporting evidence.

The form requires specific documents to verify eligibility and the combat-related nature of injuries, such as DD214's, medical records, retirement orders, and VA Rating Decisions.

Misconception 8: The CRSC payment will be added on top of any other military retirement pay without affecting them.

Applicants must understand that if they are eligible for both CRSC and Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP), they must choose between the two, as they cannot be received simultaneously.

Clarifying these misconceptions is vital for eligible military retirees to successfully navigate the CRSC application process. Properly understanding and following the instructions on the DD Form 2860 maximizes the chance of receiving the compensation to which they are entitled.

Key takeaways

When applying for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) through the DD 2860 form, it is crucial to understand several key aspects to ensure the process is completed correctly and efficiently. Here are five key takeaways:

Completing the form accurately is paramount. The application requires detailed personal, service, and medical information. Any inaccuracies or missing details can delay the process or result in a rejection. Always print, type, or use a computer to fill out the form for clarity, and if uncertain about any information, it’s better to mention "Don't Know" or "DK" rather than leaving fields blank.
Proof of eligibility and combat-related injuries is required. Applicants must supply supporting documents, which may include medical records, military service records, and any previous Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) decisions regarding the claimed disabilities. These documents are essential in establishing the combat-relatedness of your injuries, which is a prerequisite for CRSC eligibility.
Understanding the definitions of combat-related codes is important for specifying how each disability is connected to combat service. The form offers different codes to categorize the nature of combat-related injuries, such as Purple Heart (PH), Direct Result of Armed Conflict (AC), Simulating War (SW), Instrumentality of War (IN), among others. Correctly identifying the appropriate code for your injuries can significantly impact the success of your claim.
Electing between CRSC and other benefits is necessary for processing your claim, as outlined in Section VI of the form. If eligible for both CRSC and Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments (CRDP), you must choose which compensation to receive. This section also includes important legal attestations regarding the accuracy of the information provided and awareness of penalties for fraudulent claims.
Submitting the claim to the correct address is crucial. The form lists specific mailing addresses for retirees from the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, NOAA Corps, and Public Health Service, and eFax numbers where applicable. It’s vital to send your claim to the address corresponding to the service from which you retired to avoid unnecessary delays.

By adhering to these guidelines, veterans seeking CRSC can navigate the application process more smoothly, improving their chances of receiving the compensation they deserve for their combat-related injuries.

Please rate Blank Dd 2860 PDF Template Form

4.81

Incredible

16 Votes

Popular PDF Forms

What Documents Do I Need to File Taxes - The Drop Off Checklist by H&R Block is an essential tool for efficient and thorough tax preparation, ensuring all details are accounted for.

Siba Portal - The form requests details on the type and nature of disabilities, including mobility, neurological, and cognitive impairments.

Free Driver Qualification File Forms - Designed to meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's requirements for driver qualification files.