The Michigan Office Of Retirement Services (ORS) plays a crucial role in guiding Michigan National Guard members through the complexities of military retirement. This comprehensive guide outlines the necessary steps, required documents, and contact information to ensure a smooth transition into retirement.
Essential Documents for Retired Pay Application
Applying for retired pay from the Michigan Army National Guard requires specific documentation. This information pertains exclusively to Michigan Army National Guard retirees. If you served elsewhere, contact 1-800-MICH-VET. The Michigan Office of Retirement Services can provide assistance with this process. The required documents include:
- DD Form 2656 and DD Form 108 (Retired Pay Application): Retirement Services personnel will assist in completing these forms.
- Notice of Eligibility (NOE): This is your 20-year letter or a 15-year letter if applicable.
- Separation Orders: Documentation confirming your transfer to the Retired Reserve.
- NGB Form 22 (National Guard Report of Separation and Record of Service).
- NGB Form 23B (Retirement Point Statement) or an equivalent document.
- DD Form 1883, 2656-5, or 2656-6 (Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan Election): This crucial form must be submitted within 90 days of receiving your NOE to avoid a default election based on your recorded dependent information.
- Orders for Promotion/Reduction/Lateral Appointment.
Supplemental Documents for Specific Circumstances
In addition to the core required documents, certain circumstances necessitate supplementary documentation. These include:
- Dependent Documents: Marriage licenses, divorce decrees, birth/death certificates, and Social Security numbers (including for adult children).
- Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) or Eligible Domestic Relations Order (EDRO): Required regardless of age.
- VA Disability Memo: Must be issued within the last 12 months.
- DD Form 214 (Severance Pay): Include the dollar amount.
- Banking Information for Direct Deposit: Provide the institution’s name, mailing address, routing number, and account number.
- Beneficiary Information: Provide the name, Social Security number, address, and date of birth for any designated beneficiaries for Final Pay or Survivor Benefit Plan.
Contacting the Michigan Office of Retirement Services
The Michigan National Guard Retirement Services Office offers support to both current service members and retirees. Reach out to them for assistance with your retirement needs:
Phone: 517-481-8303
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Michigan National Guard State Military Retirement Eligibility
Eligibility for state military retirement in Michigan requires:
- At least 19 years, 6 months, and 1 day of service in the Michigan National Guard (Air or Army).
- Attainment of at least 55 years of age.
- Separation from service.
To apply, complete the application and submit it to: [email protected]. You can find the application and more information on the Michigan Office of Retirement Services website: https://www.michigan.gov/orsmilitary/about-your-plan.
The Michigan Office of Retirement Services also provides assistance with obtaining personnel service records. Procedures for requesting records vary depending on branch and separation date. Contact the appropriate office for specific instructions. For those who separated after 2003, accessing records via iPERMS is often required.
For medical records from your Michigan Army National Guard service, complete DD Form 2870 and submit it with a photocopy of your valid ID. Specific contact information is available for different branches. Additional resources for federal benefits and military awards and decorations are available online.
