1. What is the Military OneSource Retirement Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates military retirement pay using the standard High-3 retirement system formula.

Purpose: It helps service members project their retirement benefits based on years of service and highest 36 months of basic pay.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Pension \) — Annual retirement pay
• \( Y \) — Years of creditable service
• \( H3 \) — High-3 average basic pay

Explanation: The 2.5% multiplier (0.025) is applied for each year of service against the average of the highest 36 months of basic pay.

3. Importance of Retirement Planning

Details: Understanding your projected retirement pay helps with financial planning and transition to civilian life.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your total years of service (including partial years) and your estimated High-3 average pay. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the High-3 retirement system?
A: The High-3 system calculates retirement pay based on the average of the highest 36 months of basic pay.

Q2: Does this include other benefits?
A: No, this calculates base retirement pay only. Other benefits like BAH, BAS, or special pays are not included.

Q3: What's the maximum percentage?
A: The maximum is 75% of your High-3 pay, achieved at 30 years of service (0.025 × 30 = 0.75).

Q4: How do I find my High-3 average?
A: It's the average of your highest 36 months of basic pay, typically your last 3 years of service.

Q5: Does this work for blended retirement?
A: No, this is for the legacy High-3 system. Blended Retirement System calculations are different.