“Gray Area” reserve component retirees can apply for a new type of myPay account introduced late last month by the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) – a step officials hope will keep them informed and connected between their retirement and when they are eligible to receive retirement pay.

The “Future Retiree” account allows those in this specific group a convenient way to keep DFAS updated with their contact information and to also receive important news on their upcoming benefits from DFAS and their branch of service, according to the DFAS website. Specifically, account holders will receive DFAS and service-specific retiree newsletters, and will be reminded as they approach retired pay eligibility.   

The application process for these accounts will vary depending on whether a retiree has access to an existing myPay account. Download this DFAS guide (PDF format) for step-by-step instructions.

DFAS also maintains service-specific websites addressing the needs of gray area retirees, including guidance for the retirement pay application process:

• Army National Guard and Reserve Gray Area Retirees
• Marine Corps Gray Area Retirees
• Navy Gray Area Retirees
• Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Gray Area Retirees

Gray area retirees with questions about the new account or other aspects of their retirement pay can contact DFAS at (888) 332-7411.

Changes or updates made to the myPay account will not be reflected in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Retirement System (DEERS). Learn more about maintaining that account at this link.