Why are some personnel who are medically retired not going to receive a pension immediately?
Those leaving the Services on medical discharge whose civilian earning capacity is not significantly affected will receive a gratuity related to their salary and the number of years they have served to help them adjust to their new circumstances. No ill-health pension will be payable. However, if they leave with sufficient service (at least 18 years and with a minimum age of 40) they will receive Early Departure payments and a preserved pension at the age of 65, rather than the ill-health gratuity. If they leave before the EDP point they will receive a preserved pension at age 65.
