How Do I Check My Military Retirement Pay?

Military retirement pay represents a significant financial resource for former service members and their families. Understanding how to access and regularly review this pay information is important for financial planning and ensuring accuracy. This guide will help you navigate the process of checking your military retirement pay, from setting up online access to interpreting your statements.

Setting Up Online Access

Accessing military retirement pay information is primarily done through the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) MyPay system. New users must request a temporary password, mailed to the address on file, typically arriving within 10 business days.

Once received, visit the MyPay website to create your profile using your Social Security Number and temporary password. You will then establish a unique Login ID and permanent password for future logins.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is mandatory for MyPay accounts. During setup, choose a method for a one-time PIN (text, email, or authenticator app). Keep your contact information current for seamless MFA and notifications.

Viewing Your Retirement Pay Statements Online

Once your MyPay account is set up, log in to the official MyPay website using your Login ID and password. Complete the multi-factor authentication by entering the one-time PIN received via your chosen method.

The MyPay dashboard is a central hub for managing pay. To view your monthly Retiree Account Statement (RAS), locate the designated section. DFAS typically makes the electronic RAS available by the first of each month.

The portal allows access to up to 12 months of past RAS, offering a digital record. You can view, download as PDF, or print statements. Registering an email enables monthly notifications when new statements are available.

Interpreting Your Retirement Pay Statement

Understanding your Retiree Account Statement (RAS) is important for comprehending your military retirement income. This document summarizes your gross pay, itemizes various deductions, and presents your net pay for the period. Gross pay represents your total retirement entitlement before any deductions are applied.

RAS deductions include federal and state income tax withholding, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) premiums, and health insurance premiums like TRICARE. The statement also details authorized allotments, fixed amounts deducted and sent to third parties (e.g., for savings or loan payments).

These voluntary deductions reduce net pay. The RAS may also include remarks or special notices regarding pay or benefit changes.

Alternative Methods for Pay Information

While MyPay is convenient, alternative methods are available. DFAS can mail paper copies of your Retiree Account Statement (RAS). To request a copy, submit a written request with your name, Social Security Number, signature, and required dates.

For direct assistance or complex inquiries, contact DFAS by phone. Customer service representatives can address questions about your pay, deductions, or account status, providing personalized support.

Other federal agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), may also provide pay-related information for benefits they administer, like disability compensation. While separate from military retirement pay, these benefits contribute to your overall income and have their own distinct statements. These alternative methods ensure that all retirees have access to their pay information, accommodating various preferences and circumstances.

Addressing Pay Discrepancies

If you find a discrepancy on your military retirement pay statement, compare the questionable item against previous statements and supporting documentation (e.g., benefit enrollment confirmations). This helps pinpoint the error.

Once identified, gather supporting documentation like dates of changes or prior DFAS correspondence. Contact the appropriate DFAS department, typically through their retiree pay inquiry line or online portal, to report the issue.

When contacting DFAS, provide your Social Security Number, the affected pay period, and a precise explanation. DFAS may request additional documentation. Maintain a detailed record of all communications, including dates, times, and representative names.