AFPC - Retirements and Separations Division

Myths and Facts (about Air Force Separations and Retirements)

Some of our most frequently asked questions and the answers to go with them.

Myth: A discharge less than honorable will be automatically upgraded to honorable after 6 months.

Fact: You must personally request an upgrade of your discharge to the Air Force Discharge Review Board (AFDRB). This board affords former Air Force members the opportunity to request an upgrade in their discharge. The AFDRB has the authority to change your characterization of service, reason for discharge, or both, based on standards of propriety or equity. The burden of proof is on the member to show why the characterization should be changed. Your local Military Personnel Flight can provide additional information on this process.

Myth: Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) benefits can be used if you receive a general discharge (under honorable conditions).

Fact: If you entered the U.S. Air Force after 30 Jun 85, you must receive a fully honorable discharge in order to qualify for education benefits.

Myth: Enlisted members can retire upon completing 20 years of active service, even if they have an active duty service commitment that takes them past the 20-year point.

Fact: Enlisted members must complete their ADSC before they can retire for sufficient service. For example, if a MSgt accepts a PCS move with a 2-year ADSC that takes him to 21 years in service, he must complete 21 years in service before he is eligible to retire.

Myth: Officers who desire to separate or retire before their Tuition Assistance ADSC expires can pay back the remaining cost of TA to improve their chances of getting a waiver approved.

Fact: There is no “buy out” provision authorized for a completed ADSC incurrent event (like TA). Offers to voluntarily reimburse the remaining amount will not increase chances of approval of voluntary separation or retirement requests.

Air Force Personnel Center | Randolph AFB, TX 78150