Military divorces can be complicated. One of the most complex issues that may arise is the division of military pensions. Unlike civilian retirement plans, military pensions have rules and regulations that can make the process tricky. Understanding your unique challenges and how to approach them is crucial. This can help you in making informed decisions about your future.
The 10/10 rule
During a military divorce, being aware of the 10/10 rule is essential. This rule states that for the military to make direct payments to an ex-spouse, the couple’s marriage must have lasted for at least a decade while the service member was on active duty. If your marriage does not meet these criteria, you may still receive a portion of the pension. However, there might be a different arrangement for the payments.
Understanding the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA)
The Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act is crucial in the military pension division process. It allows state courts to treat disposable military retired pay as marital property in divorce proceedings. However, it is important to note that the USFSPA does not automatically entitle an ex-spouse to a piece of the pension. The division still needs to be determined by the court based on state laws.
Calculating the pension’s value
One of the biggest challenges you may face in a military divorce is determining the value of the pension. Unlike civilian pensions, military pensions are based on years of service and rank at retirement. This can make it difficult to calculate, especially if the service member is still on active duty at the time of divorce.
The impact of disability pay
Another unique aspect of military pensions is the potential for disability pay. If a service member receives disability compensation, it can reduce the disposable retired pay available for division. This can significantly impact the amount an ex-spouse receives, even if you agree on a specific percentage in the divorce settlement.
When you encounter problems with the military pension during your divorce, it may be beneficial to collaborate with an experienced attorney. They may help protect your rights and ensure you receive a fair settlement.