New CRSC Application Forms Stalled

Expect to wait several more weeks before the application forms for expanded Combat-Related Special Compensation hit the street, say officials. The delay stems from difficulty in developing regulations to cover retirees the Veterans Administration has classified as “unemployable” and those eligible for Special Monthly Compensation, since each retiree’s situation might or might not be combat-related. Regardless of the delay, payments for approved claims under expanded CRSC will be backdated to Jan. 1, 2004. The deferment gives potential beneficiaries an opportunity to fine-tune their supporting documentation to show that their disabilities are related to combat, military training operations, or instrumentalities of war. When the applications are ready, they will be available on the CRSC website at www.dod.mil/prhome/crsc.html.