I worked 5 years before I entered the military?

Question

Before I entered the military I had a job with the Head Start Program, where I worked for almost 5 years. I would like to be able to pick up those 4 or 5 years and have them added to my retirement package, even if I have to pay to have them counted, and I do not know where to start.
Not allowing me to pick up this time and added to my retirement package make me feel like been punished for leaving my permanent job and joining the military. At the present I am a NAF employee and was allowed to pay for my military time and added to my NAFI time. I already tried but NAF did not approve my request. Where do I need to go/write? Point of Contact? E-mail, tel or fax numbers?

Thanks, Elena A

Answer 1

That's a rough one. I would start with the Veteran's Affairs Office or writing your Congressperson. Good luck.

Answer 2

I would go to the Office of Personnel Management for the Federal government (OPM) and ask them what the rules for this are. But, I did find that "NAF employees are not legally deemed to be employees of the Federal Government for the purposes of laws administered by the Office of Personnel Management. NAF policies, procedures, and entitlements relating to employees paid from appropriated fund (Civil Service) and those relating to NAF are different except where specifically identified by law". So, basically, NAF employees have different administrative policies from Federal employees so, that is probably why your time towards retirement is being refused.

Answer 3

Look at it this way: you volunteered for the military. You got paid for your service. You are eligible for GI benefits, like tuition, mortgage assistance. Besides your wages, you got lots of benefits, all of which you earned.
The best way to cover your perceived loss is to get a good paying job, start a retirement plan and invest conservatively. You will make up any perceived loss in very little time.

Answer 4

you mustn't be allowed to force on a similar time as in boot camp besides, until issues have heavily replaced through fact i became there. After boot you is frequently presented a quick go away in the previous happening to your first accountability station. At your accountability station there will be a protection stress bus direction to get you arround base, so no difficulty there, yet its effective to have a experience whilst domicile on go away and nicer yet to have transportation as quickly as you get to your first accountability station. in case you fairly might desire to repay those expenses then decide for the sale. If not, save your automobile, through fact it is going to turn out to be useful. Retired military, 23 years. stable good fortune to you.