Setting Up Your DFAS Retiree Pay Account

Last reviewed February 1, 2025

Retired pay is administered by DFAS through the myPay online account, where retirees manage direct deposit, tax withholding, and annual pay statements.

The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) administers military retired pay after separation. Retirees should register or confirm access to their myPay account, since this is the primary self-service tool for setting up direct deposit, updating federal (and where applicable, state) tax withholding elections, and viewing retiree account statements (RAS) and annual 1099-R forms. Retired pay is generally deposited on the first business day of the month, and it is calculated and paid separately from any VA disability compensation. Members should confirm their DFAS retired pay start date and initial estimate with their service's finance office in the months leading up to separation, since delays in account setup can delay the first payment.

General educational information only — not financial, legal, tax, medical, or individualized benefits advice. Confirm current details with DFAS, the VA, TRICARE, or your service's official retirement office before making decisions.

Official sources

DFAS — Retired Military & Annuitant Pay — Defense Finance and Accounting Service
myPay — Defense Finance and Accounting Service

Benefits information is educational only and does not replace official guidance from your service, DFAS, VA, or TRICARE. Checklists are planning aids and do not replace official service requirements. This platform does not provide tax, investment, legal, medical, or individualized claims advice, and does not predict disability ratings or VA outcomes.