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Direct Access User Guides Retiree Self-Service E-Gov Travel System (ETS) Direct Access

Retiree & Annuitant Services (RAS) Branch
Serving Those Who Served

 

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PAYDAY INFORMATION

Note: Retiree paydays are always on the first day of the month. If the first day of the month falls on a weekend, the pay date will move to the last business day of the payroll month.

Availability of Funds

The Department of Treasury's Financial Management Service (FMS) Kansas City Provides Payment, Collections and Financial Reporting services to the U. S. Coast Guard. FMS has recently undertaken a number of modernization efforts. One of these efforts is called Payment Application Modernization (PAM) which will help FMS process agency payment requests in a more efficient and cost effective manner.

In accordance with NACHA Operating Rules, consumer payments (i.e., Federal salary and travel payments, benefit payments) must be made available for withdrawal no later than the opening of business on the settlement date (provided the entries are made available to the Receiving Depositary Financial Institution (RDFI) by its ACH operator no later than 5:00 p.m. on the business day prior to the settlement date). Corporate payments (i.e., vendor payments, non-benefit payments) must be made available for withdrawal on the settlement date.

CALENDAR YEAR 2024 PAY DATES

MONTH PAY DATE
JANUARY 2/1/2024
FEBRUARY 3/1/2024
MARCH 4/1/2024
APRIL 5/1/2024
MAY 5/31/2024
JUNE 7/1/2024
JULY 8/1/2024
AUGUST 8/30/2024
SEPTEMBER 10/1/2024
OCTOBER 11/1/2024
NOVEMBER 11/29/2024
DECEMBER 12/31/2024

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CALENDAR YEAR 2025 PAY DATES

MONTH PAY DATE
JANUARY 1/31/2025
FEBRUARY 2/28/2025
MARCH 4/1/2025
APRIL 5/1/2025
MAY 5/30/2025
JUNE 7/1/2025
JULY 8/1/2025
AUGUST 8/29/2025
SEPTEMBER 10/1/2025
OCTOBER 10/31/2025
NOVEMBER 12/1/2025
DECEMBER 12/31/2025
 
CONTACT US

E-Mail:  PPC-DG-CustomerCare@uscg.mil

Mailing address:

Commanding Officer (RAS)
U.S. Coast Guard 
Pay & Personnel Center
444 S. E. Quincy St.
Topeka, KS 66683-3591

Telephone:  (866) 772-8724

Fax Machine:  (785) 339-3770

Web Content Manager 

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Report broken links or other website issues here

The appearance of hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Coast Guard of non-U.S. Government sites or the information, products, or services contained therein. Although the U.S. Coast Guard may or may not use these sites as additional distribution channels for Department of Homeland Security information, it does not exercise editorial control over all of the information that you may find at these locations. Such links are provided consistent with the stated purpose of this website.

CUSTOMER CARE RETIREE/ANNUITANT INQUIRIES

PPC Call Center Technicians are prohibited from performing most inquiries.

We assist customers through getting issues identified and elevated by creating trouble-tickets for review and action that to go to the Retired Annuitant Services (RAS) branch.  You may also submit an email that feeds into the trouble ticket system via PPC-DG-CustomerCare@uscg.mil.  Please ensure your request contains a front and back copy of members photo ID and all required forms. Direct Access Self Service remains the most secure and efficient means of managing your account.

The Pay and Personnel Center (PPC) is committed to protecting customer information. The PPC Call Center has experienced numerous attempts by bad actors to access retiree information. The following are a couple of instances:

  • Over three months, a suspicious caller (male in his 20s) attempted to access a retired Coast Guard Commander’s account by calling PPC and through email inquiries. At the time, there was no power of attorney on file. PPC challenged the individual claiming to be the retiree because of the email address not matching what was on file.
  • PPC received an email impersonating a retired National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Lieutenant Commander. The email stated that the retiree’s identification card was stolen. The email address did not match what was on file. After a brief fact-finding effort, the retiree was in Texas and did not send an email. The email originated from Bakersfield, CA.

The examples above and numerous others drove PPC’s Call Center to change procedures to mitigate fraud attempts by bad actors. PPC strongly encourages retirees to make all changes to their accounts via self-service. However, we understand there are instances where retirees cannot update their information via self-service. Strict protocols are in place to protect the retiree’s information when self-service is not an option for updating account information.

  • First, the Call Center will not change account information over the phone.
  • All retiree requests for account changes must be submitted via a customer care ticket by the retiree and include the proper form for the transaction and a photocopy of a valid government photo identification card (front and back).
  • While PPC makes every effort to protect accounts from fraud, it does occur. When PPC identifies potentially fraudulent activities, the Call Center contacts the Retiree and Annuitants Services (RAS) Branch.
  • RAS will contact the retiree and verify if the retiree contacted PPC to request an update to their account information. When a retiree confirms they did not make a request, PPC places a lock on the Direct Access account, and only PPC can make changes.
  • Finally, PPC adds the retiree to a “be on the lookout” list shared by the Call Center and RAS to coordinate response efforts to respond to and prevent fraudulent activity.

NEW: Retiree FastPass Now Available!

To avoid a wait time, Retirees/Annuitants can now submit a PPC Retiree FastPass ticket. 

 

DIRECT ACCESS CHALLENGES

Our Pay and Personnel Center team members are users of Direct Access –just like you– and are similarly impacted by challenges with the system.  Though the Pay and Personnel Center does not own or control repairs to Direct Access, we continue to advocate with the Program Office to prioritize repairs and the C5I Service Center to conduct those repairs.  We appreciate your patience and grace during this time period.

In essence, Direct Access is our ship . . . and our ship is damaged and undergoing depot-level repairs.  The crew at the Pay and Personnel Center are just as eager for Direct Access to come back to fully mission capable, so we can better serve our Coast Guard families.

RETIRED PAY

At present, for temporary, permanent, VA offset, AEW’s, CRDP, and CRSC disability, we are encountering a processing delay due to systematic issues and a shortage of personnel. You remain our primary concern. We want to assure you that we are fully committed to resolving these issues promptly and handling your cases with utmost proficiency.

LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR TAXES: USING THE W-4 or THE W-4P

When you are setting up or changing your taxes for your retired or annuitant pay, please always use the W-4 form. According to the IRS, the W-4P form is to be used for periodic payments OR for annuity pay. Please note that PPC/RAS will accept the W-4 form for all tax withholding requests/adjustments (e.g., Retirees, Annuitants, Former Spouses).

Simply put:

Please feel free to review the following IRS guidance for more specifics:

About Form W-4P, Withholding Certificate for Periodic Pension or Annuity Payments | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)

2024 Publication 505 (irs.gov)

In keeping with our commitment to keep your account safe, if you request that PPC/RAS make tax changes on your behalf, please provide the form, as well as a photo ID, to our group e-mail: ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil

Thank you for allowing us to serve you.

PPC/RAS

SELF SERVICE

Direct Access (DA) Password Assistance

Click here to reset your password for DA Self-Service.

Direct Access (DA) Self-Service

You can manage the items below through Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Direct Access (DA) Self-Service is the most convenient way to process these requests, is available 24/7, and the changes are captured in our pay system NEARLY IMMEDIATELY.  Please click on your request for information on how to use Direct Access (DA) Self-Service, explore other contact methods, and obtain required information/documents.

 “Due to an increase in suspicious activity and attempts to access the accounts of our customers, PPC is taking steps to ensure the safety and security of your account.  To ensure the identity of the customers we are providing services for, PPC will now require a form and or an email template found on PPC’s website to support the changes we make on your behalf. This process ensures PPC is in compliance with US CODE and policy.  Furthermore, to protect your accounts, a copy of a valid photo ID (front and back) must be submitted as well with the worksheet or ticket. Failure to provide a photo id will result in no action taken on your request. PPC will no longer be completing account changes over the phone. Direct Access Self Service remains the most secure and efficient means of managing your account, please click on the following link for more information:  Pay and Personnel Center (PPC), Retiree and Annuitant Services (uscg.mil) See the Self-service section on this webpage.”

NOTE: All requests submitted must include EMPLID and or last 4 of SSN.  Failure to provide will result in no action taken. PPC Ticket System does not reply with an assigned number.

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 Update Contact Information (address, phone, email)

You can update your address, phone number or e-mail address in Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Refer to the following user guides for directions:

  • Change your mailing address,
  • Change your e-mail address,
  • Change your contact phone number(s).

Note: Changing your address does not update your state taxes. If you need to update your state taxes, please refer to the "Update Federal and State Taxes" section below.

If you cannot access the self-service system, you may report changes by emailing ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil (Select email link for CC Ticket Template). Please include the following information so we can process your request:

  • Emplid ID or last 4 of your SSN
  • What you would like us to update:
  • Your phone/email in case we need additional information

Note: Requests received outside of Direct Access (DA) Self-service have a processing time up to 60 days after receipt.

 Update Direct Deposit

You can update your Direct Deposit in Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Refer to the following user guide for directions:

  • Change Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)/Direct Deposit

If you cannot access the self-service system, you may provide updated direct deposit completing form CG-2015, Pay Delivery Worksheet, and emailing to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil or mailing it to us at:

Commanding Officer (RAS)
U. S. Coast Guard
Pay & Personnel Center
444 SE Quincy St
Topeka KS 66683-3591

Note: Requests received outside of Direct Access (DA) Self-service have a processing time up to 60 days after receipt.

 Start, Modify, & Stop Allotments​      

You can start, modify, and stop allotment in Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Refer to the following user guides for directions:

  • Change Voluntary Deductions (Allotments)

If you cannot access the self-service system, please fill out a CG-7221, Retired Allotment Authorization form and email it to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil

Note: Requests received outside of Direct Access (DA) Self-Service have a processing time of 60 days after receipt.

 Update Federal & State Taxes

You can change your federal and state income tax withholding in Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Refer to the following user guides for directions:  

  • Change your Federal and/or State Income Tax Withholding User Guide

Federal Taxes

If you cannot use Direct Access (DA) Self-service fill out the latest version of the IRS W-4, Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate (Adobe Acrobat Format) and email it to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil. 

State Taxes

If you cannot use Direct Access (DA) Self-service, please submit an email to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil (Select email link for CC Ticket Template) and provide the following information:

  • Identify the state for which you want taxes withheld.
  • Monthly amount you want withheld (must be whole dollar amount and at least $10 a month)
  • If you want to change your state of residence for Federal tax purposes.

Note: Requests received outside of Direct Access (DA) Self-service have a processing time up to 60 days after receipt.

 Request Duplicate Payslip​    

You can view, download, and print your monthly payslips using Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Refer to the following user guides for directions:  

  • View My Payslip User Guide  

Payslips are available about 2 days prior to the pay day and are visible for 24 months.

If you cannot access Direct Access (DA) Self Service, please email your request to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil (Select email link for CC Ticket Template). Please include the following information:

  • Emplid ID or last 4 of your SSN,
  • The Month / Year payslip requested,
  • Your phone/email in case we need additional information.

Note: Requests received outside of Direct Access (DA) Self-service have a processing time of up 60 days after receipt.

 Request Duplicate 1099R and/or 1095B​      

You can download IRS Form 1099, dating back to 2013, and IRS Form 1095 (Affordable Health Care Act, Health Coverage) using Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Refer to the following user guides for directions:    

  • View/Print My Year End Forms Overview

Notes:

(1) 1099R’s are mailed out by 31 January each year.  If your mailing address in DA was not updated by 19 December 2023, it is recommended to contact USPS to initiate a forwarding address to assist in delivery.  Please allow 45 days for postal delivery starting from 1 February to arrive.

(2) Replacement copy will only be available by electronic means through Self-Service in Direct Access. 

 

 Update Final Pay Beneficiaries    

You can view your final pay beneficiary(ies) using Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Refer to the following user guides for directions:

  •  Final Pay View My Beneficiary User Guide 

If you would like to update this information, please complete a CG-3600 and email it to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil.

Note: is only used for final pay beneficiaries. It is NOT used for designating beneficiaries under the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP).

 Update Delivery Options for Payslip and Retiree Newsletter

You can view and update your delivery options by using Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Refer to the following user guides for directions:        

  • Change Delivery Options
RAS PACKAGES, FORMS, AND CALCULATORS

FORMS

Reminder for Soon-to-be-Retirees: Beginning January 1, 2024, PPC/RAS will no longer accept versions of the Form DD-2656 older than March 2022 as your application for retirement pay. There have been updates made to the form that allow for more efficiencies in processing new retiree accessions. https://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/forms.html

Please submit your DD-2656 to PPC-DG-CustomerCare@uscg.mil at least 90 days prior to your date of retirement. Failure to provide this form - with a signature dated prior to your retirement date - will result in your enrollment in the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) for at least 24 months.

Please click below to see the list of forms currently used by PPC-RAS and download before attempting to enter information.

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 Account Updates & Taxes

 

CG-2015 – Direct Deposit Form

CG-7221 – Retiree Allotment Authorization Form

W4 – Federal Tax Election – Retiree

 

 Debts & Waivers

 

CG-7201 – Retiree Application for Waiver of Erroneous Payments

CG-7202 – Annuitant Application for Waiver of Erroneous Payments

CG-7543 – Statement of Financial Status

 

 Survivor Benefit Plan & Final Pay

 

CG-1884 – Application for Annuity

CG-3600 – Designation Final Pay Beneficiaries (Note: all dates are entered DDMMMYYYY, Example 29 FEB 2024)

CG-3867 – Claim for Final Retired Pay

CG-11221 – Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) Option – Election Certificate

DD 2656–1 – Former Spouse SBP Election (Member fills out)

DD 2656-2 – SBP Termination Request (3rd year retirees only)

DD 2656-6 – SBP Benefit Plan Election Change Certificate

DD 2656-10 – Former Spouse SBP Deemed Election (Former Spouse fills out)

 

 Retired Pay

 

CG-7430 – Blended Retirement System Election

DD-2293 – Application to Collect Former Spouse Payments

DD-2656 – Application for setup of Retired Pay Account (https://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/forms.html)

Note:  This is an enhanced PDF and may not open correctly in your browser

When you click on the form if you get a white screen, Please follow the step below or see "How to open the DD-2656 and other advanced PDF forms on a CG standard workstation" for examples.

  1. Find your save button and click on the save button
  2. Choose the location you want to save the Adobe Acrobat Document “PDF” and click save.
  3. Go to your save location and open the document from there.
  4. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader on your computer, you can download one for free by visiting www.adobe.com

CALCULATORS

Please click below to access calculators.

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 Retired Pay Calculator

RAS is unable to provide pay estimations. However, you can use this pay estimate calculator to get an estimate of your retired pay. You will need to have the below information.

  1. Pay Base Date:
  2. Active-Duty Base Date:
  3. Current Rank:
  4. Your Time in service (fully years & months)
  5. Retirement Point Total (if a reservist completed)

Note: If you want just your retired pay you will need to remove all the percentages for Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

 Reserve Retired Pay Calculator

The Department of Defense has introduced a new "legacy" High-3 Retirement Calculator to help members (Active Duty and Reserve) under the high-3 retirement system to estimate their retired pay.  This is the first widely-available calculator that allows Reservists to estimate their non-regular retired pay.  It also takes into account reduced-age retirement (although the user will have to know how much reduction he/she will get) and other
factors.    https://militarypay.defense.gov/Calculators/High-3-Calculator/

Depending on the date you initially entered military service, also called the DIEMS date, your monthly Coast Guard Reserve retired pay will be calculated under the Final Basic Pay or High-3 formula as follows:

DIEMS Date before 8 September 1980 - Final Pay

1. Multiply your years of equivalent service (see equivalent service formula below) by 2.5%, up to a maximum of 100%.

2. Multiply the result by the basic pay in effect on the date your retired pay begins (normally age 60).

DIEMS Date on or after 8 September 1980 - High 36

1. Multiply your years of equivalent service (see equivalent service formula below) by 2.5%, up to a maximum of 100%.

2. Multiply the result by the average of your highest 36 months of basic pay.
Note: The highest 36 months of basic pay for a service member who transfers to the Retired Reserve until age 60 will normally be the 36 months before age 60. Longevity service will continue and pay raises will continue to accrue. Service members, who elect discharge before age 60, will have their highest 36 months of basic pay based on the date of discharge. Longevity service stops and future pay raises will be considered.

As can be seen from these two examples, if you initially entered military service on or after 8 September 1980, you should think carefully before requesting a discharge. Taking a discharge will impact your retired pay.

*Equivalent Service = Total Creditable Retirement Points /360.  Total number of retirement points divided by 360. Carry the resultant figure to three decimal places, round to two decimal places. EXAMPLE: 4735 retirement points divided by 360 = 13.152 or 13.15-years of service for percentage purposes  to be multiplied by 2-1/2 percent.

 Military Compensation Calculators 

Each retirement calculator estimates retired pay during retirement years. You can personalize the inputs to reflect your expectations about your retirement and economic conditions. The address of the page is: http://www.dod.gov/militarypay/retirement/calc/.

 Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Premiums Calculator

Click here to get an estimate for a good idea of what your Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) premiums will be. Once you click on the link, you will then click on SBP Premium; this will open an MS-Excel document. Once you have enter data in the Retiree Information and RC-SBP screen (if applicable), you will click on the premiums tab to see your estimated premiums

Note: If you have Child coverage and your child’s age on this page is over 22 you will need to remove the child cost from the “Your Monthly SBP Premium will be….”

Customer Support Requests

Click on your request topic below to get detailed information on the required documents and information needed for RAS to process your request.

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 Report a Death

A folded U. S. Flag
How to Report a Death

Please report the passing of your loved one via e-mail to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil or by phone at 1 (866) 772-8724  (business hours are: Monday - Friday 7:30 (am) to 4:00 (pm) central time). 

REPORTING THE DEATH OF A RETIREE, ANNUITANT, or FORMER SPOUSE (who is receiving pay)

Please provide the following information when reporting the death of a retiree, annuitant, or former spouse (who is receiving pay)

Deceased Persons Information:

  1. Employee ID number or /SSN:
  2. Full Name:
  3. Date of Death:
  4. Type of death: (Natural Causes or Homicide)
  5. Location of Death (City & State)
  6. Type of Burial (Buried/Cremated/Sea Burial)
  7. Location of burial (City & State) 

    Reporting Person Information
  8. Name:
  9. Relationship to deceased:
  10. Phone:
  11. E-mail:
  12. Mailing Address: 

Once you have the Death Certificate please email it to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil.

REPORTING THE DEATH OF A DEPENDENT (SPOUSE, PARENT, INSURABLE INTEREST or CHILD who is not receiving pay)

Please provide the following information when reporting the death of a dependent:

  1. Death Certificate (Dependent deaths cannot be processed without the death certificate)
  2. DD Form 2656-6, Survivor Benefit Plan Election Change Certificate,  (if the person is on your Survivor Benefit Plan)
  3. CG Form 3600, Designation of Beneficiary for Payment of Unpaid Retired Pay, (if the person is listed as a Final Pay Beneficiary)

PPC RAS will contact you to confirm receipt of your report and/or supporting documents. This information will be given to the pay team who processes the passing of your loved one. We generally process these requests within 30 days of receipt, however incomplete or missing information or supporting documents will delay the processing.

 Report a Life Event (Marriage, Divorce, Childbirth, & Adoption)

Since each pay account is unique to the individual, we are unable to provide details on how your life event will affect your pay account.  Life events cannot be taken over the phone and we are unable to process them until a complete package of required forms and supporting documents is received. The complete package is:

  • Marriage, Childbirth, Adoption, Awarded Guardianships
  • Divorce

The completed packages can be emailed to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil or mailed to:

Commanding Officer (RAS)
USCG PPC
444 SE Quincy St
Topeka KS 66683-3591

Note: Once the package is received, we will review your pay account and process the life event. Processing the life event is generally done within 60 days, however incomplete, invalid forms, or missing documents may delay the processing.

 Report a Missing Payment

The majority of returned payments are the result of outdated banking information in our pay system. Providing updated banking information to other government entities (e. g., DEERS, VA) does not update your information with PPC-RAS and vice versa.

You can update your Direct Deposit in Direct Access (DA) Self-Service. Refer to the Change your Direct Deposit information user guide for directions.

If you cannot access the self-service system you may provide updated direct deposit by calling 1-866-772-8724 or by completing form CG-2015, Pay Delivery Worksheet, and e-mailing to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil or mailing it to us at:

Commanding Officer (RAS)
U. S. Coast Guard
Pay & Personnel Center
444 SE Quincy St
Topeka KS 66683-3591

Note – Returned Allotment: If the returned payment is an allotment it is our standard process to stop the allotment and send the money to your direct deposit account on our next available off cycle. If you need to restart the allotment, we will need new banking information and policy numbers if applicable.

Note – Returned Net Pay: It is our process to make several attempts to reach you and check our system for updates, if new banking information is not received by the 8th of the month your pay account will be placed into a held pay status until new banking information is received.

 Report a Pay Issue

Please send an e-mail to us at ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil please include the following information in the body of the e-mail.

  1. Your full name
  2. Your Employee ID or the last 4 of your SSN
  3. Description of why you believe your pay is incorrect
  4. Contact details

Note: E-mail submitted without a description/details of why you believe your pay is incorrect will be closed without research.

 Request a Corrected 1099R

 

Please submit your request via e-mail to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil. In the e-mail, please provide the following information:

  1. Your Full Name (First, Middle, Last)
  2. Your Employee ID or the last 4 of your social security number
  3. Tax Year you are requesting to have corrected
  4. A brief description of what you think is incorrect, include the box numbers from the form.
  5. Your contact information.

Note: Requests for corrected 1099R have a processing time of up to 90 days.

 

 Request a Pay Verification Letter/Awards Letter

 

Our pay verification letter is a combination of a standard letter and your payslip. The two documents together provide your pay details and inform the financial institution that the pay will continue throughout your lifetime. You can use Direct-Access Self-Service to view and print a Verification of Pay Award Letter and your Payslip. 

Attention Former Spouse: The DA self-service component does not support Award Letters being created for Former Spouses (FSPAs). Please submit a request through an e-mail to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil and we will be able to manually create it for you.

Note: If your lender does not accept this format, we will need a letter from the lender explaining why. Requests received for a different format has a processing time of 45 to 60 days.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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 Deceased Claims & Burials
   
Q How do I report a death?
A Please see "How to Report a Death" (above).
Q How do I request CG Military Funeral Honors Support?
A

Funeral directors, family members, and veteran advocates requesting Military Funeral Honors (MFH) for a deceased CG veteran (to include in certain instances NOAA, PHS, and U.S. Merchant Marines) should consult the following link to find the phone number for the regional coordinator that applies to their area:

https://www.militaryonesource.mil/products/military-funeral-honors-directory-705/

Should the request be urgent (24-72 hour lead time) or the requester unable to get a reasonable timeframe from the listed number, contact the Casualty Matters Chief on the duty cell phone 24x7: 571-266-2375. Messages left on the Casualty Matters Chief office phone or faxes received are only checked during normal business hours excluding federal holidays. A minimum of 24 hours notice is required, and in some cases depending on travel distance, 48-72 hours are required. MFH and Burial at Sea (BAS) request forms can be downloaded from the links at the bottom of this page and completed/faxed along with the veteran's DD-214 to the regional coordinator once contact is established. The regional coordinator will then schedule a honors detail with a unit local to where the ceremony will be taking place. The Navy or National Guard typically do not and should not be providing honors for CG veterans except as requested by the regional coordinator when resources are scarce.
Q How do I arrange for a Retiree's Burial at Sea?
A Please review the Burial at Sea Program Guide 
 Disabilities (Temporary, Permanent, VA Offset, AEW, CRDP, & CRSC)
   
Q Why is my VA amount the same as my CRDP or gross pay?
A There may be instances where a retiree's VA compensation (offset) can be greater than the retiree's gross pay compensation. In these situations, our system only shows the amount that will zero out the retiree's retired pay compensation.
Q Why did the VA withhold part of my disability pay? Don't they owe me that difference as part of the retro CRDP project? 
A Retirees cannot look at the VA payments separately from the CG & CRDP payments. They must consider all of them together to determine the proper overall entitlement and payment. In some cases where it appears the VA withheld extra monies; it is because the CG had not withheld enough monies due to late notification of a change by the VA. The net result is the correct entitlements and payments were made to the retiree. If the VA had paid the full amount, the retiree would have been overpaid by the CG and we would have had to collect that money back from you. It is much more effective and efficient to adjust payments in this manner rather than have the VA make a payment just to have the CG turnaround and collect it back as an overpayment.
Q My VA disability rating is 50% or higher why is my retired pay reduced?
A

In order to receive full retired pay and full VA pay the retiree must have a VA disability rating of 50% or higher and have 20 years of more of service. If you do not meet both criteria then your VA disability pay will be offset up to the amount of your gross retired pay.

Members who have reached both criteria will see a VA Offset on their payslip in the deductions section and will also see CRDP Earning in the entitlement section on their payslip. Generally these two amounts are the same.
 Former Spouse Protection Act (FSPA)
   
Q I have not received my annual certification. When will I receive it?
A In March 2021 the decision was made to discontinue the annual certification process.
Q I have recently divorced a retiree. I was awarded part of my former spouse’s retired pay. How do I get this started?
A You will need to complete a Former Spouse Protection Act (FSPA) Package and e-mail it to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil.
Q I am not being charge state taxes. How do I set this up?
A Although your FSPA direct payment may be subject to state income tax, we are unable to withhold state income tax form your FSPA direct payment.
Q My FSPA payment has changed. Can you tell me why?
A

Due to privacy laws, PPC/RAS is unable to share details about your former spouse’s pay account with you. We encourage you to review pages 2 and 3 of the Former Spouse Protection Act (FSPA) Package listing possible reasons why your FSPA payment amount could change, or you can contact your former spouse for details.

Note: If a Cost of Living Adjustment is authorized at the end of the year, your pay will increase with December's pay.
 New Accessions (Setting up my Retired Pay Account) 
   
Q What is an Employee ID number and why do I need it?
A

The seven-digit Employee ID is the number we use to identify each Retiree/Annuitant. You will use it instead of your social security number when requesting changes be made to your Direct Access account. Once the self-service portion of the pay system is established (usually after you receive your first retired or annuitant pay), you will be able to use your Employee ID number to log onto the system and make the changes to many transaction types yourself with nearly immediate results.
Q What do I need to do to setup my retired pay account?
A You will need to submit the latest version of the Retirement Processing Package  by e-mail to  ppc-dg-customerservice@uscg.mil.
Q I am unable to get my Retirement Application – Data for Payment of Retired Personnel (DD-2656) filled out prior to my retirement date, can I still file after my retirement date?
A Yes you can still file, however you will be automatically enrolled in Survivor Benefit Pan (SBP) covering all eligible beneficiaries at the highest benefit possible. You also will not receive retirement payments until your valid Retirement Processing Package is processed (typically 30 to 60 days after receipt).
Q I am a reservist when do I fill out a Retirement Application – Data for Payment of Retired Personnel (DD-2656) to setup my retirement account?
A If you are being medically retired, you need to fill out a Retirement Processing Package. form as soon as possible. If you are processing into a RET2/retired waiting pay status, then you do not need to fill out a package; a package will be mailed to you about six (6) months prior to your 60th birthday. Please make sure you keep PPC (SEP) informed of any address, e-mail, and phone number changes.
Q When will I receive my first retired payment?
A Your first retired pay should be processed in 30 to 45 days after your retirement date or receipt of your Retirement Processing Package, whichever is later. Please keep in mind that unsigned or incomplete forms and/or missing documentation will delay the processing of your retirement.
Q How do I get a retired pay estimate?
A To calculate pay estimate open the Retirement Calculator, you will need to have the below information.
  • Pay Base Date:
  • Active-Duty Base Date:
  • Current Rank:
  • Your Time in Service (fully completed years & months)
  • Retirement Point Total (if a reservist)
Q I am RET2/retired awaiting pay, what is my official retirement date?
A Your official retirement date is your 60th birthday, however if you qualify under the early out provision, submitted your request and been approved, your official retirement date is your approved early-out date. If you have been approved for an early our, please email RAS at ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil and provide your new retirement date.
Q I gave my retirement application to my SPO, what happens now?
A Providing the application to the SPO does not satisfy the requirement to have the application to PPC/RAS prior to your retirement date. It is the member’s responsibility to submit the application to PPC/RAS.  If the SPO submits the application late, there may not be enough time to correct any issues and your retired pay may be delayed. Please submit your form DD-2656 to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil.
 Life Events (Marriage, Divorce, Childbirth, Adoption & Guardianship) 
   
Q I have already reported my life event to DEERS/RAPIDS/VA do I also have to submit the information to PPC (RAS)?
A

Yes, you will need to submit documentation to PPC/RAS. Although we are all part of the Federal government, our systems do not communicate with each other.
Q I have experienced a life event, What do I need to do?
A

Life events can cause changes to your account and they cannot be taken over the phone. We are unable to process them until a complete package of required forms and supporting documents is received. Depending on the type of life event, the complete package is:

Marriage, Childbirth, Adoption, Awarded Guardianships

Divorce

The completed packages can be emailed to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil or mailed to:

Commanding Officer (RAS)
USCG PPC
444 SE Quincy St
Topeka KS 66683-3591

Note: Once the package is received, we will review your pay account and process the life event. Processing the life event is general done within 60 days, however incomplete, invalid forms, or missing documents may delay the processing.
Q I want to speak to a Pay Technician before supplying the documents?
A We are unable to provide guidance on how your life event will affect your pay. Each case is unique to your circumstances and required a complete account reconciliation. Providing details cannot be done without a thorough review of your pay record and your supporting documentation
 Retired Pay & Pay Calculations
   
Q Will my retired pay be offset by Social Security?
A No, receipt of Social Security does not affect your retired pay.
Q If I entered the service after 7 September 1980 and was promoted within the warrant officer ranks to W-4 while concurrently holding rank of LT, how is my retired pay calculated
A Because High-36 Month Average Basic Pay is calculated based on pay received by the member, the member's promotion within the warrant officer ranks, while concurrently serving as a LT, has no impact on calculation of retired pay. (Ref: 14 USC 423(b); 10 USC 1407; Military Separations Manual Art 1.C.12; DOD Financial Management a Regulation Vol 7-B, section 030108)
Q I am retiring due to physical disability. I was determined to be 30% disabled. However, based on years of service I am entitled to a higher percentage. How will my pay be calculated?
A The multiplier for disability retired pay is either:
  • 2.5 percent for each year of service, or
  • disability percentage assigned by the service at the time you retire
For a member with 30 or more years of service, retiring on or before January 7, 2011, the retired pay multiplier may not exceed 75-percent. The retired pay multiplier is not limited for members with 30 or more years of service who retire on or after January 8, 2011. If you are on the Temporary Disability Retired List, the minimum multiplier is 50 percent while on the TDRL.

PPC (RAS) uses the method that results in the largest payment. But if you’d like to choose the other method, please send PPC your request in writing.

Read more about disability retirement calculation in DoD Financial Management Regulation 7000.14-R (FMR), Volume 7b, Chapter 3, para 030102; Disability Retirement.
Q I've been told that my account is in "Held Pay" status. What is Held Pay?
A

Held pay results when a Retiree or Annuitant fails to provide the required documents to set up their pay account and/or failure to maintain their contact information with PPC (RAS).

Example: Your pay has been returned by your bank, our attempts to contact you have failed and/or new banking information is not received, you are placed into a held pay status until that information is received.

Held pay is released once the member has provided the required information/ documents. If this is done by the 10th of the month the held pay should be released on the next available on-cycle payment, normally the 1st of the month. If this is done after the 10th, however, the held pay may take 45 to 60 days to be released.
 Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) 
   
Q How much will my beneficiary receive when I pass?

A
Your Beneficiary will receive 55% of your SBP Base amount. This amount is listed on the right side of your payslip in the box labeled "Annuity".

Q
Can I cash in my SBP or take a loan off my SBP?

A
The survivor benefit plan does not allow for you to cash out or take a loan.

Q
Can I prepay my SBP?

A
The plan does not allow for you to prepay the SBP premiums.
Q Can I cancel my SBP?
A

You can cancel/terminate your SBP election beginning in the 25th month through the 36th month – or within the third year - of your retirement. Please note that this window is an exit only, not an entrance, and is non-revocable.  As with declining SBP or electing an amount less than full at retirement, spousal concurrence is required. If you believe you are eligible, please complete and submit a Survivor Benefit Plan Termination Request (DD 2656-2). The form cannot be signed or received prior to the first day of your 25th month.

Q
If I cancel my SBP do I get the premiums refunded?

A
The premiums for SBP are not refundable.

Q
Can you tell me if I am listed as a beneficiary of my spouse's/former spouse's/parent's account?

A
Yes we can confirm you are listed, however due to privacy laws additional information may not be provided.

Q
My child is no longer in high school/college and over the age of 18, can I remove the child from SBP?

A


Your child will be automatically removed after their 22nd birthday. If you want your child to be removed between the ages of 18 and 22, you will need to submit a signed letter requesting the removal. If you decide to use the automated process, your child will be removed as follows:

PY = prior year / CY = current year

  • Birthday is 9/2/PY to 12/31/PY they are removed on 7/1/CY
  • Birthday is 1/1/CY to 7/1/CY they are removed on 7/1/CY
  • Birthday is 7/2/CY to 8/1/CY they are removed on 8/1/CY
  • Birthday is 8/2/CY to 9/1/CY they are removed on 9/1/CY
 Taxes
   
Q On my 1099R block 1 and 2 are the same. Why is this?

A
The USCG only reports taxable income. The amount in boxes 1 and 2 will be your gross retired pay minus VA Offset, SBP Charges, and FSPA payments.

Q
I need a duplicate copy of my 1099R. How can I get one?

A

You can download IRS Form 1099, dating back to 2013, and IRS Form 1095 (Affordable Health Care Act, Health Coverage) using Retired Direct Access Self-Service. Refer to the View, print, or save your IRS Form 1099R/1095 User Guide for directions. Current year 1099R are uploaded by February 1st of each year and are available through DA Self-Service. 

If you cannot access Direct Access (DA) Self Service please email your request to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil. Please include the following information:

  • Emplid ID or last 4 of your SSN,
  • The Month and Year Pay slip you need,
  • Your phone/email in case we need additional information.

Notes:

(1) Requests for replacement 1099R forms must not be submitted prior to 15 February. This is to allow time for the original mailed form to arrive at its destination or to be returned as undeliverable.

(2) Requests received outside of Direct Access (DA) Self-service have a processing time of up to 45-60 days after receipt.
Q Can I submit federal tax updates over the phone?
A

Federal tax updates can only be done through Direct Access (DA) Self-Service or submitting the most recent version of the W4 form to ppc-dg-customercare@uscg.mil.
Q Can you email me a duplicate of my tax document?
A

Due to privacy concerns, we are unable to e-mail 1099R forms. If you request a duplicate, it will be mailed to the address on file in Direct Access unless you request us to mail it to another address. Of course, you can obtain a copy yourself through Direct Access (DA) Self-Service.
Q The state is incorrect on my 1099R so I updated my address in DA Self-Service. Why weren't my state taxes updated?
A Updating your address with PPC (RAS) does not change your state taxes. You must do that in Direct Access (DA) Self-Service.  RAS is unable to retroactively change state taxes
Q Why did I not get a 1095B?
A The law which required providing the 1095b is no longer in effect. A 1095b will no longer be issued after the 2021 tax season (the calendar year 2020).
Q I have a FSPA deduction. Why did my FITW change so much?
A Your FSPA deduction generally is a pretax deduction. Pretax deductions reduce a member's taxable pay, thus reducing the amount of taxes withheld.
Q I received a retroactive disability rating from the VA and I believe my 1099R form should show less taxable income, can you send me a corrected 1099R?
A Your IRS 1099R form for last year is correct. It shows the income (a.k.a. Distributions) paid last year. There's a special procedure you'll need to follow to subtract the non-taxable portion of your retired pay from your total taxable income when you prepare your tax return.

If you retire from the USCG or NOAA based on years of service and are later awarded a retroactive service-connected disability rating by the VA, your retirement pay for the retroactive period is excluded from income up to the amount of VA disability benefits that you would have been entitled to receive. Form 1099R reports the entire distribution because the income, when paid, was taxable under the law.

A corrected Form 1099R will not be issued by the Coast Guard. This policy is contained in the DOD Financial Management Regulations, Vol 7B, and also is stated in the IRS Instructions for Form 1099R, which directs that the entire income distribution will be reported if a part is taxable and a part is not taxable.

Retirees who are affected by the policy should be advised that they need to report the amount of their retired pay on line 16a of the IRS 1040 or line 12a of IRS 1040A then on line 16b of the 1040 or line 12b of the 1040A, enter the taxable amount computed by subtracting from the retired pay the amount of VA compensation for the most recently completed tax year which ended on December 31. The Retiree must attach appropriate copies of the Form 1099R and the VA Award Letter to claim a refund of taxes paid on the excludable amount.

You may also claim a refund of any taxes paid on an excludable amount in previous years by filing an amended return on Form 1040X, subject to Statute of Limitations. For further information on retroactive VA awards, see IRS Publication 525, page 16 which provides information on what you need to do to adjust prior year returns.
 
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