What happens to my pension when I medically release?
2 min readIntermediateAssumes some familiarity with military transition or Veterans Affairs.
Your CAF pension is based on your years of service and pensionable salary. A medical release does not reduce your pension, and you may be eligible to receive it immediately without an age reduction.
When you medically release from the Canadian Armed Forces, your pension is calculated based on your pensionable service and salary — the same as any other release.
Key points about your CAF pension after medical release:
- Your pension is not reduced because of a medical release
- If you have at least 2 years of pensionable service, you can typically start receiving your pension immediately
- If you are under age 55, your pension may be reduced based on your age — but if your release is related to a medical condition, different rules may apply
- Your pension is taxable income
- You can transfer your pension to another employer's plan or a locked-in retirement account under certain conditions
Your pension is separate from VAC disability benefits. VAC benefits like Pain and Suffering Compensation are tax-free and are not reduced by your pension.
SISIP/CAF LTD is also separate — it is an insurance benefit, not a pension. SISIP is reduced by the amount of your CAF pension.
Why This Matters
Understanding how taxes interact with your benefits prevents surprises at tax time and helps you plan your finances during transition.
Who This Applies To
CAF members who are medically releasing and have pensionable service.
Common Misconception
Many members think a medical release means losing their pension. Your pension is based on service and salary — the reason for release does not reduce what you earned.
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PensionSISIPRelease Item
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What Should I Do Next?
Request a pension estimate from your unit's pension services office before release. Contact the Government of Canada Pension Centre for specific calculations.
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Last reviewed: July 23, 2026·Next review: October 23, 2026
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