Who controls CRSC and CRDP?

Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) and Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP) are programs designed to provide financial benefits to military retirees with combat-related disabilities. These programs are administered by the Department of Defense (DoD), which is responsible for determining eligibility and processing applications for benefits related to military service.

The Department of Defense sets the regulations and guidelines for CRSC and CRDP, ensuring that they align with military compensation policies and benefit frameworks for service members. Although the Department of Veterans Affairs plays a significant role in providing health and disability benefits to veterans, it is the DoD that specifically evaluates and manages these compensation programs, reflecting its focus on military personnel and their service-related issues.

The Board of Veteran Appeals deals primarily with appeals related to decisions made by the VA—not specifically with the administration of CRSC or CRDP. Meanwhile, Congress enacts laws that can establish or modify these programs but does not directly control their day-to-day administration. Thus, the DoD's role is essential in the context of both CRSC and CRDP.