Retirement & Recruiting Crisis

Military Retirement Changes Coming in 2025–2026

In 2025–2026, the landscape of U.S. military retirement is undergoing important changes — from updated retirement-pay rules and modified benefit calculations to fresh legislative proposals that could affect how long-term savings and pensions are managed. This edition brings together key updates to the Blended Retirement System (BRS), evolving performance trends of the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and emerging bills under discussion. We break down how pension multipliers, lump-sum options, continuation pay, and TSP contributions may shift; show how recent TSP performance could impact retirement portfolios; and highlight pending legislation that may affect both active-duty members and retirees. If you rely on military retirement benefits or plan for long-term savings, you’ll want to read this update carefully.

VA Travel Pay & Mileage Reimbursement — New Digital Requirements

The VA is rolling out new digital requirements for travel pay and mileage reimbursement, shifting fully toward app-based submissions through the VA Health & Benefits mobile app and the BTSSS online system. With stricter filing timelines — often requiring claims within 30 days of each appointment — many veterans are experiencing delays or even losing payments due to missed deadlines or incomplete digital submissions. These new rules are designed to streamline processing, but the transition has created challenges for veterans who aren’t familiar with the updated system. This newsletter highlights what’s changing, what veterans must do to stay eligible, and how to avoid losing reimbursement under the new digital-first process.

Education Benefits Update: Post-9/11 GI Bill Expansion & Oversight

Significant updates are coming to the Post-9/11 GI Bill in 2025, focusing on stronger oversight, expanded protections, and smarter benefit planning for veterans and their families. New rules aim to shield students from underperforming or predatory schools by tightening accountability standards and improving VA monitoring. At the same time, families using transferred GI Bill benefits for dependents can maximize their entitlement by planning around updated tuition caps, housing allowances, and school eligibility criteria for the 2025 academic year. These changes are designed to ensure veterans and their dependents get the highest value and quality from their education benefits.

VA Community Care Appointment Delays: What Veterans Can Do Immediately

Community Care delays are rising nationwide, with rural veterans facing the longest wait times due to provider shortages and slowed authorizations. Many regions are now exceeding the VA’s timeliness standards, leaving veterans stuck waiting for essential specialty care. This update outlines what veterans can do immediately — including contacting their VA Patient Advocate, requesting an appointment review, and escalating issues through the VA’s Community Care and Integrated Care support channels. Understanding the proper escalation steps can help veterans secure faster appointments and avoid getting lost in the system.

Military Recruiting Crisis: What It Means for Veterans

The U.S. military is facing one of the most severe recruiting shortages in modern history, with every major branch falling short of its enlistment goals. To counter this, the services are rolling out new bonuses, fast-track job options, and expanded incentives to attract qualified recruits. These changes have real implications for veterans — from shifts in force readiness to an increased need for mentorship as family members and young adults seek guidance on whether military service is right for them. Veterans can play a crucial role in helping future recruits navigate enlistment decisions, available incentives, and long-term benefits.