Soldiers in the High-3 group receive full annual COLAs to their retired pay. Details of the High-3 plan are discussed above. X the average of the member s highest 36 months of basic pay . After 30 years, they are equal. Wise use of the bonus money can help offset this discrepancy.
Members have six months from the date of notification to make an election.
A member who chooses to delay an election will have the same options that were available to the member on the original election due date. In no case will an election become effective before a member s 15 th year of active duty. Any election received after a member s 15 th year of active duty is effective and irrevocable on the date received. Eventually, there will be no limit other than the annual IRS limit. Financial advisors are available privately or through local Army Community Services Offices.