This system applies to members who first entered Service after September 8, 1980, but before August 1, 1986. It also applies to individuals who entered on or after August 1, 1986, who do not elect the REDUX retirement system with the Career Status Bonus at their 15th year of service.

Each year of service is worth 2.5% toward the retirement multiplier. Hence, 2.5% x 20 years = 50% and 2.5% x 30 years = 75%. The longer an individual stays on active duty the higher the multiplier and the higher the retirement pay, up to the maximum of 75 percent.

This multiplier is applied against the average basic pay for the highest 36 months of the individual's career. This typically, though not always, equals the average basic pay for the final three years of service. Also, remember only basic pay is used in retirement calculations in all retirement system options. Allowances and special pays do not affect retired pay.

Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) are given annually based on the increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a measure of inflation. Under the High-3, the annual COLA is equal to CPI. This is a different index than the one used for active duty annual pay raises. The index used for active duty pay raises are based upon average civilian wage increases. Thus, retirement pay COLAs and annual active duty pay raises will differ.