FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE 

PHYSICAL DISABILITY EVALUATION PROCESS.

Part I: INTRODUCTION: 

Part II: MEDICAL EVALUATION BOARD (MEB): 

Part III: INFORMAL PHYSICAL EVALUATION BOARD (IPEB): 

Part IV: FORMAL PHYSICAL EVALUATION BOARD (FPEB): 

Part V: PDES FINALIZATION AND

POTENTIAL COAST GUARD & VETERANS BENEFITS: 

Part I: INTRODUCTION: 

1. The Coast Guard's Disability System :

The Coast Guard’s Physical Disability Evaluation System (PDES) follows the provisions 

of certain United States laws (specifically, Title 10, United States Code, Chapter 61) 

governing the separation or retirement of military personnel due to physical disability. 

PDES laws were enacted primarily to ensure a vital, fit military force. These laws also 

provide you certain benefits and protections if your military career ends prematurely due 

to injury or illness. Should you suffer injury or develop a medical condition, the PDES 

program will evaluate your ability to perform the duties associated with your office, 

grade, rank or rating. In accordance with federal law, the Coast Guard may find you fit 

for duty, separate you, or retire you due to a physical disability. 

2. Major stages of the PDES Process: 

There are many potential stages in a Physical Disability Evaluation System (PDES) case. 

Numerous factors and circumstances are involved in determining the stages a PDES case 

will go through. The following is a general overview of the potential stages in a PDES 

case and is meant solely to help you in your understanding of the Physical Disability 

Evaluation System (PDES). 

3. I've been seriously hurt, what happens next? 

The Coast Guard’s first priority is to give you proper medical attention should you 

become injured or ill. However, if your commanding officer or treating physician 

believes you are unable to perform your duties due to your disability or illness during or 

after treatment, you will be referred to a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB), discussed 

below in Part II. 
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Part II: MEDICAL EVALUATION BOARD (MEB):

1. What is a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB)?

You will most likely become involved in the PDES process when you incur an injury or 

illness that calls into question your ability to perform the duties of your office, grade, 

rank, or rating. Physical Disability Evaluation System Manual (hereinafter, the PDES 

Manual), COMDTINST M1850.2D, chapter 3. In that case, a Medical Evaluation Board 

(MEB) will convene, usually at the request of your commanding officer or treating 

physician. 

The MEB will make a recommendation as to whether you meet the Coast Guard's 

physical retention standards. PDES Manual, chapter 3, par. G.4. The MEB documents 

your medical problems, defines limitations imposed by your condition (if any), and 

explains how your condition affects your ability to perform the duties of your office, 

grade, rank or rating. For the purposes of the Physical Disability Evaluation System, 

"office" is defined as the member's assigned duties. PDES Manual, chapter 2, par. A.36. 

You will be furnished a copy of the board’s report unless the information contained in the 

report might have an adverse effect on your physical or mental health. At that point, you 

are afforded an opportunity to submit a statement in rebuttal to any portion of the board’s 

report. PDES Manual, chapter 3, par. H. Your rebuttal must be made within 21 calendar

days (not counting weekends and holidays) after you receive the MEB report. 

Your command will then submit a MEB report, including a Medical Officer’s narrative 

summary of your condition, a command endorsement, and your rebuttal should you 

choose to make one, to Commander, Coast Guard Personnel Service Center, Physical 

Disability Evaluation Branch (CG PSC-PSD-de). You should be aware that any rebuttal 

will become part of the PDES record. For a more detailed explanation of what happens 

when you are injured, or the Initial Medical Board process, see the PDES Manual, 

chapter 3.

2. How important is it for me to comment on the MEB?

The MEB report is usually the first indication you receive of the Coast Guard's official 

diagnosis and determination of the medical conditions that may affect your continued 

service in the Coast Guard. Normally, the report is provided to you. It contains all of the 

significant medical findings and opinions, and the recommended disposition of your 

PDES case. This is generally the first opportunity for you to have input in the disability 

process. However, you must be aware that if you choose to make a rebuttal to the MEB, 

anything you say will become part of the permanent record for your case. 

If you make a rebuttal, the board, if practicable, reviews the rebuttal and makes changes 

to the report or provides additional comments that it deems appropriate. You will be 

provided with any changes or additional comments made by the MEB. If you do not 
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rebut the initial or revised MEB report within 15 working days, the report is processed for 

further action in accordance with the PDES Manual. 

3. What is the role of my doctor and the examining doctor at the MEB?

As your medical care provider, your physician will provide you the best medical 

advice/treatment/care within their means. Your MEB examining physician’s only role is 

to perform a thorough physical examination and formulate a medical conclusion 

regarding your health. PDES Manual, chapter 3, par. F.2. The role of your examining 

physician is confined to providing you with medical advice/treatment/care, and making a 

medical evaluation and recommendation to an Informal Physical Evaluation Board 

(IPEB) (discussed below in Part III), and if necessary, to a Formal Physical Evaluation 

Board (FPEB)(discussed below in Part IV). 

The MEB does not assign you a disability percentage rating for injuries or illnesses, nor 

will it make reference to the Veterans Administration Schedule for Rating Disabilities 

(VASRD)(a manual used by the IPEB and the FPEB to assign codes and disability 

percentages to injuries/illnesses; discussed below). PDES Manual, chapter 3, par. G.3.b.

4. What is my command’s role after my Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) is 

completed?

Your command should provide you with a copy of the MEB report, and ensure that you 

are counseled on the contents of the MEB report and your medical condition before the 

MEB is forwarded to CG PSC PSD-de. 

Your command should provide an endorsement to the medical evaluation. The 

endorsement should contain a summary of the duties normally associated with your 

office, grade, rank or rating, along with your current duties. A statement regarding your 

ability to perform current duties should be included. Therefore, you should be sure that 

your command is aware of any limitations you may have in performing your duties. 

Finally, the endorsement is required to state the interim duty status (if any) into which 

you have been placed due to your injury or illness.

Your command has the ability to define your disability within the context of your duties 

and responsibilities. The PDES Manual makes it clear that “the sole standard in making 

determinations of physical disability as a basis for retirement or separation shall be 

unfitness to perform the duties of office, grade, rank or rating because of disease or injury 

incurred or aggravated through military service.” PDES Manual, chapter 2, par. C.2. 

Without a command endorsement, an IPEB (discussed below in Part III) or FPEB 

(discussed below in Part IV) may have difficulty determining if you are unfit to perform 

your duties due to injury or illness. As a result, while it is common to focus on the 

physician statements, diagnosis, and prognosis, what is documented in the command 

endorsement can also prove helpful. For a more detailed explanation of your command’s 

role, see the PDES Manual, chapter 3, par. I.
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Once the MEB package is complete, CG PSC PSD-de will refer the package to an

Informal Physical Evaluation Board (IPEB). For a more detailed explanation of the 

Medical Evaluation Board Process, see the PDES Manual, chapter 3.

5. I am being retired. Am I entitled to a medical board?

The decision to convene an MEB is one made by your command and/or your physician. 

If you are separating or retiring from the Coast Guard for reasons other than injury or 

illness, and you are able to perform the duties expected of you in your current billet, 

a medical board would not be convened as a matter of policy even though medical 

evidence indicates you have impairments. If a MEB were convened, the IPEB (discussed 

below in Part III) probably find you fit for full duty by presumption. This is a rule that 

effectively prevents you from receiving disability benefits from the Coast Guard if you 

were fully performing the duties of your office, grade, rank or rating prior to your 

planned separation or retirement. PDES Manual, chapter 2, par. C.2.b.

However, if a MEB and an IPEB (discussed below in Part III) finds you fit for full duty 

and you disagree, you may overcome this presumption of fitness for duty in one of two 

ways. First, you may show that because of your injury or illness, you have been unable 

to perform the duties of your office, grade, rank or rating for a long period of time. 

Second, you may overcome the presumption if your injury or illness occurs immediately 

prior to, or while processing, your separation or retirement. For more a more detailed 

explanation, see the PDES Manual, chapter 2, par. C.2.c. & chapter 3, par. D.7.

Part III: INFORMAL PHYSICAL EVALUATION BOARD (IPEB):

1. What is the IPEB?

An Informal Physical Evaluation Board (IPEB) is a permanently established 

administrative board located within the Coast Guard Personnel Service Center. It is a 

panel of at least two commissioned officers, one of whom serves as board President and 

the other as medical member. The IPEB weighs and impartially examines all relevant 

evidence in your case and makes findings and recommendations in conformity with 

applicable laws, regulations, and established policy. The IPEB evaluation is a review 

based solely on the documented record submitted by your command. Neither you nor 

any other witnesses are present for this portion of the process. 

An IPEB may find you fit for full duty or not fit for duty. A fit for duty finding will be 

made if the record indicates you are physically and mentally able to perform the duties of 

your office, grade, rank or rating (including specialized duty, if applicable). For the 

purposes of the PDES, "office" is defined as the member's assigned duties. Physical 

Disability Evaluation System Manual (hereinafter, the PDES Manual), COMDTINST 

M1850.2D, chapter 2, par. A.36. 
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In reaching its decision, the IPEB is guided by the PDES Manual, the Veterans 

Administration Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD), Title 38, Part 4, Code of 

Federal Regulations, the Coast Guard Medical Manual, COMDTINST M6000.1B, and 

Military Separations, COMDTINST M1000.4. 

Occasionally, rather than making a decision of fit for full duty or not fit for full duty, an

IPEB might decide that your physical condition is not clear enough to make a fitness 

determination. In such cases, the IPEB orders a follow-up medical board, called a 

Disposition Medical Board (DMB). A letter from the IPEB to your command orders the 

DMB to be conducted and indicates the required specialist consultations and a 

submission date. The IPEB processes DMB findings in the same manner it processes 

Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) findings (discussed above in Part II). 

PDES Manual, chapter 4, paragraph A.7. 

For a more detailed explanation of the IPEB, see the PDES Manual, chapter 4.

2. What happens if I am found fit for duty?

If you are found fit for duty by the IPEB, you will be returned to your unit to continue 

your career. However, if you believe you are unfit, you have the option of rebutting the 

IPEB findings, while you continue to serve with your unit. PDES Manual, chapter 4, par. 

A.14.b. Your rebuttal must be in writing and should be submitted via your chain of 

command within 30 days of the IPEB date. If you are found fit for full duty, you are not 

entitled as a matter of policy to a Formal Physical Evaluation Board (discussed below in 

Part III). However, if your physical or mental condition worsens, you may go through 

the disability process again. 

3. When are you considered unfit for duty?

You may be considered unfit for duty when one or more physical or mental disability 

(injury or illness) prevents you, or could prevent you, from performing the normal and 

reasonable duties of your office, grade, rank or rating. PDES Manual, chapter 2, par. C.2. 

Some medical conditions are automatically unfitting as a matter of policy. Coast Guard 

Medical Manual, COMDTINST M6000.1B, chapter 3, par. F. Although there is no 

bright-line rule to determine fitness for duty for many conditions, Coast Guard policies 

are promulgated to ensure members on active duty are fully capable of performing all 

expected duties. 

If you are found unfit, the IPEB makes a fitness decision by balancing the extent of your 

injury or illness as a limitation to perform assigned duties of your rating – as shown 

through medical and performance evidence – against the rating requirements in the 

VASRD and Coast Guard policy. Typical medical evidence used by the IPEB in their 

decision making process includes the narrative summary written by the MEB (discussed 

above in Part II), your medical profile, the history and treatment of your injury or illness, 

referrals to physicians and sick call, and the type and frequency of medication, if any. 

Performance evidence includes statements from your command, personnel records, 
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promotions, awards, and adverse personnel actions. However, you should be aware that 

if you are performing the duties of your office, grade, rank or rating, you may not 

necessarily be found fit for duty. Similarly, in some situations, you may be unable to 

perform all the duties expected of your office, grade, rank or rating and be found fit for 

full duty. For a more detailed explanation of fitness for duty evaluation, see the

PDES Manual, chapter 2.

4. I have been found unfit for duty. Is there a Coast Guard policy that allows me to 

remain on active duty?

Yes, under certain conditions. Foremost, you should have between 18 to 20 years of 

active duty . Chapter 17 of the Personnel Manual, COMDTINST M1000.6, provides that 

a member, who was found unfit, may apply to be continued on active duty until 20 years 

despite his/her disability. A member desiring retention on active duty should submit a 

request letter to Commander (CG PC-opm-1) or (CG PC-epm-1) with a copy to (CG PSC

PSD-de). Commander (CG PC) will consider retaining members on active duty in a 

limited assignment status if they meet the following criteria:

1. The member possesses a special skill for which there is a specified Service 

need.

2. The member’s physical condition is such that he/she can perform duty 

requiring their special skill.

3. Retention will not jeopardize their health or their associates’ health.

4. The disability is stabilized and is not likely to require frequent absence from 

duty.

5. The member should have at least 18 years but less than 20 years service.

In exceptional cases, Commander (CGPC-epm-1) will consider retaining an individual 

with less than 18 years in an aviation rating in a non-flying status until eligible for 

retirement subject to all these conditions:

1. The member possesses an above average proficiency in an aviation rating for 

which the Service has a specific need.

2. The member can perform useful service in an established billet for their rate 

 and rating. 

3. The member's retention will not jeopardize his or her own or associates' 

 personal health. 

4. The member is in pay grade E-6 or above with at least 16 years of service for 

 retirement eligibility. 

5. The member submits a written request to Commander (CGPC-epm-1) to 

remain on active duty until completing 20 years of active service.
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5. I was found unfit by the MEB - how can the IPEB find me fit for duty?

Simply put, the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB)(discussed above in Part II) and the 

IPEB are separate boards with different roles. The MEB does not decide whether you are 

fit for continued duty. A MEB decides whether you have an injury or illness, and 

documents the extent of that injury or illness. The MEB then recommends whether the 

injury or disease is severe enough to cause you to fall below Coast Guard medical 

retention standards as identified in the Coast Guard Medical Manual, COMDTINST 

M6000.1B, chapter 3, par. F. If the MEB concludes that you fall below Coast Guard 

retention standards, it will refer you to an IPEB. But, note that failure to meet retention 

standards does not necessarily mean that you are unfit for duty, because you may still be 

capable of performing all the duties of your office, grade, rank or rating.

The IPEB makes the decision of whether you can adequately perform the requirements of 

your office, grade, rank or rating. The IPEB alone decides fitness for duty by balancing 

the extent of your injury or illness against your ability to perform the duties of your 

office, grade, rank or rating. For more information concerning the differences between 

the MEB and the IPEB, see the PDES Manual, chapters 3 & 4.

6. Should the Coast Guard rate all my medical conditions?

The PDES Manual allows all medical conditions identified in a medical record to be 

rated. However, chapter 2, paragraph C.2.a states, "[T]he sole standard in making 

determinations of physical disability as a basis for retirement or separation shall be 

unfitness to perform the duties of office, grade, rank or rating because of disease or injury 

incurred or aggravated through military service." This statement makes it clear that only 

military unfitting conditions will be rated by the IPEB and the FPEB (discussed below in 

Part IV). In other words, you can only expect to be rated for conditions that are unfitting 

independent of any other medical conditions. For example, you may be diagnosed with 

arthritis, which is ratable under the VASRD, but if you are still able to perform all of the 

duties required of your office, grade, rank or rating, you will not be rated for that 

condition. For more information, see the PDES Manual, chapter 2.

7. I suffer from a condition listed in the VASRD. Does that mean I will be found unfit 

and rated by the IPEB?

Just because you have an injury or illness listed in the VASRD does not mean that the 

IPEB will find you unfit and medically discharge you from the Coast Guard. Before you 

are considered eligible to be medically discharged (either through separation or 

retirement) from the Coast Guard, you must be determined to be unable to perform the 

duties of your office, grade, rank or rating, and your inability to perform your duties is a 

direct result of a documented injury or illness. In other words, the mere existence of a 

physical defect or condition that is ratable under the VASRD does not itself provide 

justification for separation or retirement from military service. PDES Manual, chapter 2, 

par. C.2.i. 
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8. The IPEB stated that my condition existed prior to entering the service and did not 

rate my disability. How can this be?

The objective of the PDES is to document and provide benefits for injuries and/or 

diseases incurred or aggravated while in the Coast Guard. Therefore, injuries and/or 

diseases that are not service connected do not qualify for potential PDES benefits.

The injury or illness that you may have been rated for may have existed prior to your 

entry into the service (termed EPTE – existed prior to entry into service). Causes of 

EPTE disabilities include hereditary or congenital defects, injuries, or diseases with an 

inception before entering service. 

You will be separated from the Coast Guard without disability benefits if the IPEB 

decides your injury or illness existed prior to service and that your condition has not been 

permanently worsened, or aggravated, by service with the Coast Guard. PDES Manual, 

chapter 2, par. C.5. Aggravation by service of a preexisting impairment is determined by 

finding the combined total percentage of disability existing at the time of evaluation and 

subtracting this from the combined total percentage of disability: (1) existing at the time 

of entry into active service. (2) incurred during a period of unauthorized absence. (3) 

otherwise not incurred in line of duty, provided the percentage of disability subtracted 

can be ascertained in terms of the VASRD. No deduction will be made from a total (100 

%) rating; however, the percentage of disability existing upon entry into the service will 

be set forth in the record. If the condition(s) which existed upon entry cannot be 

ascertained in terms of the VASRD, insert 0 %. For more information on this topic, see 

the PDES Manual, chapter 2.

9. How does the IPEB decide my disability percentage?

If the IPEB finds that you are unfit, and you are eligible for disability benefits, the IPEB 

will rate the severity of your injury or illness using the Veterans Administration Schedule 

for Rating Disabilities (VASRD). 

The VASRD lists hundreds of physical and mental disabilities and rates these disabilities 

using objective medical criteria. Depending on the severity of your illness or injury, the 

IPEB may rate you from zero to one hundred percent disabled. Disability percentages are 

a direct result of applying the VASRD to the description and severity of the illness or 

injury. For this reason, it is important that any disease or injury is correctly characterized 

in your record. For more information on the rating process, see the PDES Manual,

chapter 4.

10. What happens if I have more than one disability?

Each condition, taken independently, must prevent you from performing the duties of 

your office, grade, rank or rating. For example, if you are suffering from a knee injury 

and a bad back, for both items to be rated, you must be able to show that each condition, 

independent of the other, prevents you from performing the duties of your office, grade, 

rank or rating. When you have more than one ratable disability, the percentages are 
9

combined rather than added. This results from the consideration of the most disabling 

condition first. For example, a person having a condition rated at 60 percent will be 

considered to have 40 percent remaining efficiency. If that person has another condition 

rated at 20 percent, he or she is considered to have lost 20 percent of the remaining 40 

percent of efficiency, or 8 percent. Thus, a person with a 60 percent disability and a 20 

percent disability has a combined disability percentage of 68, which is rounded up to 70. 

Pyramiding is the term used to describe the application of more than one VASRD rating 

to any area or system of the body when that area or system is more appropriately rated 

under a single code. For instance, if you are missing a hand, you would not also be rated 

for a missing finger. This is not permitted under the PDES, as it results in overrating the 

disability. 

11. Will I receive higher findings because of my seniority and years of dedicated 

service to the Coast Guard? 

No matter who you are - what rank you hold - or who you know - you will be evaluated 

by the medical boards based on objective medical documentation. The PDES program 

makes every effort to ensure consistent application of Coast Guard policies and the 

VASRD to each evaluee. Officers and senior enlisted members are treated equally to 

junior enlisted members. 

12. How does the IPEB decide whether I receive severance pay or a medical 

retirement?

The severity of your injury or illness will determine whether you are separated with 

severance pay or whether you are medically retired. If you are rated at zero, ten, or 

twenty percent disabled you will be separated from the Coast Guard with severance pay. 

If you have an injury or illness rated at 30% or more, or if you have a disability and 

twenty or more years of active duty service, you will receive a medical retirement. 

Medical retirement at less than 20 years of service can be permanent or temporary. If 

your condition stabilizes and becomes permanent you will be permanently medically 

retired. If your disability is not stabilized or is likely to change, you will be placed on the 

Temporary Disability Retired List (TDRL) (discussed below in question 13). 

13. What is the Temporary Disability Retired List (TDRL)?

If you are being temporarily retired, you will be placed on the TDRL for up to five years 

and reevaluated at least once every 18 months. See PDES Manual, chapter 4, par. A.8

& chapter 8. You may be temporarily retired if you meet all of the below:

1. Your condition or disability is uncertain or likely to change, 

2. Your disability is rated at 30 percent or higher, and 

3. You are unfit for duty. 

However, the IPEB may make findings in your PDES case at any time if you meet any of 
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the following: 

1. You become fit for duty,

2. Your condition or disability stabilizes, or 

3. Your degree of disability falls to less than 30 percent. 

14. When am I entitled to a lawyer?

The Judge Advocate General of the Coast Guard has the responsibility to detail military 

legal counsel to represent you at the appropriate point in the process. Counsel is 

assigned to PDES cases only after the IPEB has made a decision in your case. The Coast 

Guard Personnel Command, CG PSC PSD-de, will notify you of the IPEB findings. 

Upon receipt of the notification letter and findings, you must return an election of counsel 

and consent form to CG PSC PSD-de, if you wish to elect Coast Guard counsel and 

consent to the release of your IPEB record so that counsel may properly advise you. 

Upon issuance of findings and recommendations by the IPEB, you have 30 days to either 

accept or reject the IPEB’s findings. Counsel will brief you on the IPEB's recommended 

findings and disposition and then, if applicable, represent you before FPEB proceedings. 

He or she will not advise your command, physicians, or any other interested personnel 

about your case without your permission. 

You may elect to be represented by a civilian counsel or anyone else of your choice, 

including a disability counselor supplied by one of the veterans' service organizations, 

at your own expense, or the providing organization's expense. See the PDES Manual, 

chapter 5, par. A.4.g. You may retain civilian counsel of your choice during any point in 

the PDES process. If you elect to retain civilian counsel or other legal assistance, you 

will not normally be provided with appointed military counsel. For more information on 

this topic, see the PDES Manual, chapter 4.

15. What is the role of my detailed military counsel?

Military counsel is detailed by the Judge Advocate General (CG-094). As such, 

counsel’s obligation is to zealously represent the client, guided by established ethical 

standards. 

By virtue of training, skills, legal and practical knowledge, and experience with the PDES 

process, military counsel can advise you in making a knowledgeable and informed 

decision on whether to accept the findings, request reconsideration, or proceed to a 

formal hearing. The lawyer’s paramount duties are to assist you by advising you of your 

legal rights, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of your case, candidly and fully 

explaining possible outcomes, and representing you. 

The military attorney has no direct control over the findings of the Board. The attorney 

can only advocate your interests to the board members. Coast Guard legal counsel is not 

authorized to negotiate with the IPEB or Formal Physical Evaluation Board 

(FPEB)(discussed below in Part IV) to change the IPEB or FPEB recommended findings. 
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16. Am I entitled to a written explanation of the findings from the IPEB?

The IPEB makes findings and recommendations of your medical condition in a closed 

session. The only written record of the IPEB findings is contained in the CG-4808 that 

you receive via your military legal counsel. However the PSC PSD-de Ombudsman calls 

every member once the IPEB findings are made and counsels them on the findings.

17. Can I ask for the IPEB to reconsider their decision?

Yes. Sometimes this is a better choice than immediately proceeding to a Formal Physical 

Evaluation Board (FPEB)(discussed below in Part IV). The purpose of the request for 

reconsideration is to provide new or additional medical information that was not 

reasonably available at the time of the MEB. The evidence from the physician who wrote 

the medical board report is the strongest evidence, but medical evidence from other 

physicians will also be considered. A request for reconsideration should be submitted 

before rejecting IPEB findings and within 30 days of the issuance of IPEB findings. 

However, it is advised that the request be submitted within 20 days of the issuance of the 

IPEB findings. If no response is received prior to 30 days from the issuance of the IPEB 

findings, it is advised that the evaluee submit a rejection to ensure that no rights are 

inadvertently waived. The IPEB has the discretion to change their findings, following a 

request for reconsideration. 

Should your medical condition change significantly at any time during this process, your 

Commanding Officer has the responsibility to notify the CG PSC PSD-de of any 

significant changes in your status or physical condition, and, arguably may need to add 

to, or change, the command endorsement to the MEB. PDES Manual, chapter 3, par. J.

18. Do my post-service employment plans have any impact on my Coast Guard 

disability rating?

Your future employability is rarely a consideration in PDES determinations. It would be 

a consideration only if you were completely unemployable. However, the percentage 

ratings in the Veterans Administration Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD) 

represent the average impairment in earning capacity resulting from such injury or 

illness, had it occurred in a civilian occupation. PDES Manual, chapter 9, par. A.2.a. It 

is important to remember that the applicable percentage ratings in the VASRD will not 

always neatly fit every civilian occupation. In some civilian occupations you may not be 

impaired to the degree of the disability rating found in the VASRD, and in other 

occupations you may be impaired to a higher degree than the disability rating contained 

in the VASRD. The CG policy for making disability determinations is described in the 

PDES Manual, chapter 2, par. C.2.a. 

Chapter 2, paragraph C.2.a states, "[T]he sole standard in making determinations of 

physical disability as a basis for retirement or separation shall be unfitness to perform the 
12

duties of office, grade, rank or rating because of disease or injury incurred or aggravated 

through military service." This statement makes it clear that no other considerations, 

including civilian employability would be a consideration by either the IPEB or Formal 

Physical Evaluation Board (FPEB)(discussed below in Part IV) in making fitness for 

continued duty/rating determinations. Furthermore, chapter 2, paragraph C.2.b states that 

"the law that provides for disability retirement or separation (10 U.S.C. chapter 61) is

designed to compensate a member whose military service is terminated due to physical 

disability that has rendered him or her unfit for continued duty." The bottom line is this –

your inability to function in your desired future civilian occupation is not normally a 

consideration in the actual rating assigned by the IPEB or FPEB (discussed below in 

Part IV). It is only a consideration when the Medical record indicates you are completely 

unemployable. For more information on this topic, see the PDES Manual, chapters

2.

Part IV: FORMAL PHYSICAL EVALUATION BOARD (FPEB):

1. What happens if I reject the findings of the IPEB?

You may reject the IPEB's recommended findings and disposition and demand a hearing 

before a Formal Physical Evaluation Board (FPEB), a standing board located at the Coast 

Guard Personnel Command at Coast Guard Headquarters. PDES Manual, chapter 4, 

paragraph A.14. The FPEB is a fact-finding body; it holds an administrative hearing to 

evaluate your fitness for duty and to make recommendations consistent with its findings. 

The FPEB examines the written medical evidence, evaluates other evidence presented by 

you and your counsel, and hears witnesses, which may include you, in order to ensure 

you a full and fair hearing as required by law. Your military legal counsel, or other such 

representative, will represent you at your hearing. For more information about the FPEB, 

see the PDES Manual, chapters 4 & 5.

2. How long does it take before my Formal Board is convened?

You have thirty days to accept or reject the IPEB findings. You have the right to at least 

three working days notice of the time and place of the FPEB hearing. Included in this 

three-day period you also have the right to reasonable access to the record, and any other

evidence that the board is provided prior to the hearing. PDES Manual, chapter 5. 

3. Prior to a FPEB, what should I do?

If you reject your IPEB findings, you should immediately begin preparing for your 

formal board. You are urged to contact your counsel upon submitting your rejection. 

Also, you will have the right to meet with your Coast Guard appointed lawyer one 

business day prior to the formal board hearing.

During discussions with your counsel, you and your counsel should thoroughly review 

your case. PDES counsel will assist you with the Veterans Administration Schedule for 
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Rating Disabilities (VASRD) criteria associated with your case and the medical 

documentation provided. Your counsel will explain the strengths and weaknesses of your 

physical disability case and inform you of any risks involved with proceeding with a 

formal board.

4. I am going before a Formal Physical Evaluation Board. What should I expect?

The FPEB is normally composed of three officers: a Board President, a Medical Officer, 

and a third officer called the Military Member. Each officer has an equal say in deciding 

your case. If you are a member of a minority, a female, or an enlisted person, you may 

request a minority, female, or enlisted member on your board, if reasonably available. 

PDES Manual, chapter 5, par. A.4.e.

An officer, acting as Recorder, will also be present. The Recorder is responsible for 

ensuring the board members are familiar with their duties, for presenting all relevant 

available evidence to the FPEB, for preparing a complete and accurate record of the 

proceedings, and for handling certain administrative matters. PDES Manual, chapter 5, 

par. A.5.c. The Recorder is an impartial participant to the proceedings; however, the 

Recorder can examine and cross-examine witnesses appearing before the FPEB.

If you give sworn testimony, you should expect to be asked to respond to questions posed 

by your counsel, as well as questions from the board members. You should anticipate 

questions relating to the treatment you received, whether you received medication, and 

limitations that your condition imposes. At the hearing, board members have your 

medical records, portions of your personnel file, and statements from your command 

concerning how your condition affects your duty performance. At the FPEB, you may 

also present new medical evidence on your behalf, call witnesses, and cross-examine 

witnesses if appropriate. The FPEB uses all of this information in its decision-making 

process. 

Following questions from the board members and your counsel, you have one last 

opportunity to address the board members by making a statement. When your 

presentation is over, you and your counsel will be asked to leave the boardroom so that 

board members may deliberate on your case. Once the board members reach a decision, 

you and your counsel will return to the hearing room where you will be informed of the 

board’s decision. On average, hearings last approximately an hour to an hour and a half 

and FPEB determinations are usually concluded the same day. For more detailed 

information regarding FPEB procedures, see the PDES Manual, chapter 5.

5. What are my rights at a FPEB?

You are entitled to a full and fair hearing, which includes the following:

1. The right to be present in person;

2. The right to challenge any member of the board for cause;

3. The right to present evidence on your own behalf;

4. The right be represented by detailed counsel or other representative;
14

5. The right to cross-examine witnesses who are present or can be readily 

contacted by telephone;

6. The right to receive a copy of the proceedings and findings (audio cassette);

7. The right to make statements under oath or affirmation; 

8. The right not to make any statements relating to the origin or aggravation of a 

disease or injury; and 

9. The right to an impartial hearing. 

6. Am I entitled to a written explanation of the findings from the FPEB?

Current Coast Guard policy is that the evaluee is not entitled to a written explanation of

the FPEB findings. However, you may make a written request for an explanation. The 

PDES Manual requires a board to provide amplifying statements setting forth the basis 

for its findings and recommended disposition when the basis is not readily apparent from 

the documents of record, as in the case of a disability percentage award varying from the 

normal, or when your true physical condition is not adequately reflected by the VASRD. 

PDES Manual, chapter 2, par. C.3.d. 

7. May I appeal the decision of the FPEB?

There is no actual appeal of right within the Coast Guard PDES system. At the 

conclusion of the hearing, the FPEB provides you with its recommended findings and 

disposition. You have three working days from the date of the FPEB findings to decide 

whether or not to file a rebuttal and to make notification of your intentions, and 15 

working days from the FPEB findings date to submit a rebuttal. PDES Manual,

chapter 5, par. D. In the rebuttal you must: (1) state the reasons for rebutting the decision 

of the FPEB; (2) state the nature of your objection; and (3) provide or cite evidence to 

support your position. A rebuttal may include substantial existing evidence, which, 

despite due diligence, could not have been presented before disposition of the case by the 

FPEB. PDES Manual, chapter 5, par. D.2.

Filing a rebuttal to a FPEB requires a very careful consideration of the possible 

outcomes. The Physical Review Counsel (PRC) hears FPEB rebuttals. In its review the 

PRC shall not substitute its judgment for that of the IPEB (discussed above in Part III) or 

FPEB. If the PRC does substitute its own findings, then a right to appeal to a Physical 

Disability Appeal Board (PDAB) is triggered. The findings of an FPEB will not 

normally be modified on review by the PRC unless they were clearly erroneous. PDES 

Manual, chapter 6, paragraphs B.2 & 3. You should speak with your counsel before 

making this decision. For more information regarding your appellate rights, see the 

PDES Manual, chapters 5 & 6. 

Part V: PDES FINALIZATION AND

POTENTIAL COAST GUARD & VETERANS BENEFITS:

1. Legal Approval: 
15

Completed IPEB (discussed above in Part III), FPEB (discussed above in Part IV), and 

Physical Review Counsel (PRC)(discussed above in Part IV, question 7) findings must be 

forwarded to the CG PSC Office of General Law (LSC) for review for legal sufficiency 

before they can be finalized. PDES Manual, chapter 4, par. C, chapter 5, par. D.4.b & 

chapter 6, par. C.2.b. 

2. How long do I have until final approval?

It takes 90 days after you accept the findings of the IPEB or after your FPEB for a final 

disposition of your case by the Commander, CG PSC. After final approval, CG PSCepm, opm, or rpm issues a message to your command with a retirement/separation date. 

Normally your retirement/separation date is within several additional weeks from your 

command's receipt of the CG PSC message.

3. I am being separated from the Coast Guard due to a physical disability, what will be 

my disability severance pay? 

You will be separated from the service with severance pay if you are rated with a zero, 

ten, or twenty percent disability and less than twenty years of service. Disability 

severance pay is computed by multiplying twice (2X) your monthly base pay by your 

years of service (not to exceed 19 years of service). The minimum number of years of 

service that can be attributed for purposes of this calculation are 3-years of service for 

service-connected disabilities and 6-years of service for combat-related disabilities.

4. I am being permanently retired from active duty due to a physical disability. 

What will be my retirement payment?

Disability retirement payment may depend upon your length of active service or upon 

your percentage of physical disability. Military disability compensation is determined in 

one of two ways. The first way is to multiply your base pay by your disability 

percentage. For example, a member with a 30 percent disability rating would retire at 

30 percent of his/her base pay. The second method is based on years of service. This 

method is determined by multiplying your active duty years of service by 2 1⁄2 . 

For example, a service member with 16 years and a 30 percent disability would receive 

40 percent (16 years of service X 2.5) of his/her base pay, rather than 30 percent, because 

of their longevity of service. After each method is computed, you will be given the one 

resulting in a greater compensation amount. See the attached handout titled: 

Information for Members Being Medically Retired.

5. I am being separated from service due to a combat-related physical disability, but I 

am not getting a retirement. What are the ramifications of a combat-related 

characterization of my disability?

If your physical disability is characterized as combat-related by the military, but you have 

less than 20 years of service and the military rates you at 20% or less disabled, you are 

not entitled to a retirement, but are entitled to concurrent receipt of your severance pay 
16

and VA disability payments. While the military severance pay is subject to taxation, the 

pay from the VA is not subject to taxation.

6. If I am separated or retired from the Coast Guard, may I also receive entitlements 

from the Veterans Administration? 

Yes. Any member separated or retired from the service may file a claim with the VA for 

service-connected disability compensation. VA disability compensation varies with the 

degree of disability and the number of dependents, and is paid monthly. The benefits are 

not subject to federal or state income tax. To contact the VA call 1-800-827-1000 or visit 

their Internet site at: http://www.va.gov. 

VA disability payments have an affect on the amount of military retirement or disability 

pay. Retired members who receive disability compensation from the VA waive military 

retired pay equal to the amount of VA compensation received. If the amount of VA 

compensation exceeds retired pay, retired pay will be waived as a whole. The current 

VA Benefits Compensation Rate Tables can be found at: 

http://www.benefits.va.gov/COMPENSATION/resources_comp01.asp. 

7. Can the rating percentages from the Coast Guard and Veteran Administration 

differ?

Yes. The Veteran Administration implements a separate and distinct policy in rating 

service members. The Coast Guard only rates unfitting conditions. The VA is concerned 

with the overall civilian employability of a disabled veteran due to the disability. This 

emphasis on civilian employment allows the VA more flexibility in addressing the 

disability of a service member. Because these two separate organizations apply two 

different policy standards, there often are differences in the overall disability findings. 

8. Where can I find out about Transition Benefits?

Coast Guard members being involuntarily separated or retired from the Coast Guard 

because of physical disability are entitled to Transition Benefits in accordance with the 

provisions of the Transition Assistance Program, COMDTINST 1900.2. For further 

information on the Transition Assistance Program contact the nearest Work-Life staff at 

1-800-872-4957, or visit the Coast Guard Work-Life Internet site at: 

http://www.uscg.mil/worklife/transition_assistance.asp. 

9. Do I have any recourse regarding the final decision of the PDES process?

The Coast Guard Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) has the authority to 

review and change Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve personnel records, and to grant 

appropriate relief. The PDES process is covered by the mandate of the BCMR, so 

current or former members are entitled to apply for relief. For further information, please 

refer to their website at: http://www.dot.gov/ost/ogc/org/bcmr/. Additionally, you have a 
17

right to communicate with your Congressional representatives or to seek judicial 

injunctive relief from Federal Courts.

INFORMATION FOR MEMBERS BEING SEPARATED DUE TO PHYSICAL 

DISABILITY

To get a complete understanding of your benefits, you should attend a Transition Assistance Benefits Course. 

Contact your local PERSRU.

How can I get an 

estimate of my 

retirement pay?

Generally, your are entitled to two months base pay for every year of military service 

up to 19 years of military service. If you have four years and six months and one day 

of service then the number of years of service will be rounded up to five years. You 

can also compute your estimated separation pay on the internet at the Air Force 

Personnel Center web site- www.afpc.randolph.af.mil. Once you reach the web 

site, choose the option on the left for, “Retirement/Separations.” Then, select the 

“Pay Calculator.” 

What are my transition 

benefits?

Your separation form the Coast Guard is involuntary. Therefore, you are entitled to transition 

benefits. See Commandant Instruction 1900.2 of 7 Feb 1996 entitled Transition Assistance 

Program. 

Am I entitled to a PCS 

move?

You are entitled to a PCS Move anywhere in the continental United States within one year of 

being separated. See Commandant Instruction 1900.2 and the Joint Federal Travel 

Regulations, Chapter 5, Part B, U5130. Members on the Temporary Disabled Retirement 

List (TDRL) who are being separated are not entitled to another (a 2nd) PCS Move. See 

JFTR, Chapter 5, Part B, U5130, Paragraph E. 

Is my separation pay 

taxable?

Your separation pay is taxable, and the Coast Guard will withhold 28% of your separation pay

for tax purposes. However, if you are rated as having a disability by the VA, the 28% that was 

withheld will be refunded to you. After you have been rated by the VA, you can get the 28% 

refunded by the IRS by filing a IRS Form 1040 or by the Coast Guard if you provide proper 

documentation to the Coast Guard Personnel Service Center (PSC) before October of the year 

you are separated. The Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) will provide you 

additional information by calling 1-703-549-0311. For more information on tax issues, check 

the IRS web site at www.irs.gov.

Am I entitled to 

terminal leave?

Your separation date will not be delayed for the purpose of allowing you to use earned leave. 

Will I be discharged 

under honorable 

conditions?

Your DD-214 will state that you are being separated under honorable conditions. There will 

also be a code indicating you were medically separated.

Will I receive a 

Separation physical? 

Your medical board serves as your separation physical.

How do I locate the 

nearest VA office? 

The toll free number is 1-800-827-1000. Check the VA website at www.vba.va.gov for more 

information.

When can I apply for 

VA disability 

compensation benefits?

Once you receive a DD-214. You can check the VA internet site at www.va.gov for more 

information regarding VA benefits. 

Will I receive the same 

rating if I apply for VA 

benefits? 

The VA makes its own independent disability determinations. Some organizations such as the 

Disabled American Veterans organization will help you file a claim with the VA. DAV is co 

located with most regional VA offices. You can call them at 1-877-426-2838 toll free, or 

check their internet site at www.dav.org.

 
18

INFORMATION FOR MEMBERS BEING MEDICALLY RETIRED

To get a complete understanding of your benefits as a retiree, you should attend a retirement seminar - such as a 

Transition Assistance Benefits Course. 

How can I get an 

estimate of my 

retirement pay?

The phone number for the USCG Personnel Service Center (PSC) is 1-800-772-

8724. The PPC will give you an estimate of your retired pay. You can also check the 

PPC web site for useful information concerning pay, service records, VA benefits, 

TRICARE and social security benefits: www.uscg.mil/hq/psc/ras.htm . You can 

also compute your estimated retired pay on the internet at the Air Force Personnel 

Center web site – www.afpc.randolph.af.mil. Once you reach the web site, choose 

the option on the left for, “Retirement/Separations.” Then, select the “Pay Calculator.” 

Am I entitled to a PCS 

move?

Per the Joint Federal Travel Regulations and Commandant Instruction 1900.2 of 7 Feb 1996 

(Transition Assistance Program), you are entitled to a PCS move anywhere in the continental 

U.S. within a year of being medically retired.

Can I elect to participate 

in the survivor benefit 

plan (SBP) before 

retiring?

If you are married and/or have minor children, you may want to elect to participate in the 

survivor benefit plan. See the above Air Force web site to learn more about the advantages 

and disadvantages of enrolling in SBP. 

Who can explain my 

medical benefits to me 

as a retiree?

Call your Health Benefits Advisor (HBA). Your PERSRU should be able to help you locate 

your HBA. You may also wish to call one of the 12 TRICARE regions. Unfortunately, each 

region has a separate number and web site. To locate your region you can call Sierra Tricare 

at 1-888-999-5195. As determined by the VA, you may also be entitled to use VA medical 

facilities depending on the level and nature of your disabilities. For the TRICARE Retiree

Dental Program, contact Delta Dental at 1-888-838-8737 or visit their web site at 

www.ddpdelta.org. 

Is my retirement pay 

taxable?

Yes, it is considered taxable income for Federal tax purposes, unless you were on active duty 

prior to 24 September 1975 and other limited circumstances. Most states do not tax disability 

retirement. For more information on tax issues, check the IRS web site at www.irs.gov.

Am I entitled to 

terminal leave?

Your retirement will not be delayed for the purpose of allowing you to use earned leave. (See 

chapter 12.C of the Personnel Manual).

Will I retire be under 

honorable conditions?

Your DD-214 will state that you are being retired under honorable conditions. There will also 

be a code indicating you were medically retired.

Will I receive a 

Retirement physical? 

Your medical board serves as your retirement physical.

How do I locate the 

nearest VA office? 

The toll free number is 1-800-827-1000. Check the VA web site at www.va.gov for more 

information.

When can I apply for 

VA disability 

compensation benefits?

Once you receive a DD-214. You can check the VA web site at www.va.gov for more 

information regarding VA benefits. 

Will I receive the same 

rating if I apply for VA 

benefits? 

The VA makes its own independent disability determinations. Some organizations such as the 

Disabled American Veterans organization will help you file a claim with the VA. DAV is colocated with most regional VA offices. You can call them at 1-877-426-2838 toll free, or 

check their internet site at www.dav.org.

What are other sources 

of information? 

The Retired Military Almanac appears to be the most comprehensive handbook. It is offered 

free at some of the retirement seminars. It can also be purchased for under $10 by calling 1-

888-872-9698.

Am I entitled to social 

security benefits?

The toll free number to locate the Social Security office nearest you is 1-800-772-1213. 

Generally, very few members being medically retired are entitled to social security (less than 

3%). For more information about the Social Security Administration, you can check their web 

site at www.ssa.gov.