Unique Challenges of Seeking Divorce as a Military Service Member in Oklahoma

Military service members face unique challenges and potential benefits of seeking an Oklahoma divorce. If certain requirements are not met, you could miss put on certain financial benefits as a military service member. At the same time, you may have access to resources designed for military service members, depending on your circumstances. Knowing about these requirements can help you anticipate potential challenges and access benefits that could make your transition after the divorce easier. If you have any questions, consider talking with an Oklahoma Divorce Lawyer for guidance.

Potential Divorce Challenges Faced by Military Members

There are several Oklahoma military divorce challenges spouses can face when they or their military ex-spouse is seeking a divorce. Many of these challenges revolve around the division of financial resources after the divorce. For example, dividing up a military pension after a divorce is not always a simple process. You have to meet certain residential requirements as a military service member to have access to your military pension.

Military members also face challenges with keeping their military ID cards after a divorce. If you do not meet the 20/20/20 rule as a military member, then you may not be able to keep your military ID card as a result of the divorce. The 20/20/20 rule simply requires you to have been through 20 years of the marriage, of military service, and of overlap between your marriage and military service. You can also lose your military ID if you remarry.

You may also have to deal with portions of your military pension being taken out for Oklahoma child support and alimony, depending on the outcome of your divorce case. However, you do have one benefit of immunity from having your VA disability compensation and Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) divided up in the divorce.

Benefits in Oklahoma for Divorcing Military Members

Despite the challenges, there are some potential Oklahoma military divorce benefits that you might be eligible for depending on certain factors. When you do qualify for 20/20/20 benefits, you will have access to medical benefits, exchange privileges, and commissary privileges. If you do not qualify for 20/20/20 benefits, you may still qualify for 20/20/15 benefits.

With 20/20/15 benefits, the requirements are the same except you only need 15 years of marriage and military service overlap. However, only your children will have access to commissary privileges and only up until the divorce is finalized. Children can still use exchange and MWR privileges as long as they are dependent on over 50% of the sponsor’s support.

If you do meet the eligibility requirements for the 20/20/20 or 20/20/15 rules, then you also have the option to apply for the Department of Defense Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP) to help cover your health needs.

Divorce Lawyer in Oklahoma

If you are struggling to come to an agreement with your spouse over issues like child custody, visitation, or child custody, then try talking with an Oklahoma Family Attorney to explore your legal options. All you have to do is contact the Putnam Law Office at (405)-849-9149 for a consultation today. Mr. Putnam is an Oklahoma City, OK attorney who is dedicated to his clients.