Which Program Should You Choose?
Quick Decision Tree

1 Do you have 20+ years of service?
❌
NO
✅
YES
If NO: Skip to CRSC analysis (CRDP not available unless Chapter 61 with 20+)
If YES: Continue to Question 2 ⬇️
⬇️
2 Is your VA disability rating 50% or higher?
❌
NO (Below 50%)
✅
YES (50%+)
If NO: CRDP not available; check CRSC eligibility
If YES: CRDP is automatically active - Continue to Question 3 ⬇️
⬇️
3 Do you have combat-related disabilities rated at least 10%?
❌
NO
✅
YES
If NO: CRDP is your only option
If YES: You might be eligible for both - Continue to Question 4 ⬇️
⬇️
4 What percentage of your VA rating is combat-related?
📉
0-30% Combat-Related
📊
40-70% Combat-Related
📈
80-100% Combat-Related
⬇️
💰
Choose CRDP
If 0-30% combat-related: CRDP almost certainly provides more money.

Why? Even though CRSC is tax-free, the dollar amount is too low compared to full CRDP restoration. CRDP wins on raw dollars.
🧮
Calculate Both Options
If 40-70% combat-related: It depends on your tax bracket and state.

Action: Calculate your after-tax income for both CRDP and CRSC. Consider federal taxes, state taxes, and your specific situation. The winner varies by individual.
🎉
Choose CRSC
If 80-100% combat-related: CRSC likely provides more money after taxes.

Why? When most of your disabilities are combat-related, CRSC's tax-free status creates significant savings, especially in high tax brackets or states that tax military retirement.