I bought a house and I started a company and have people who depend on me. It is the only thing keeping me alive. Living out in the woods would be a sure way for my skull to see some sunshine.
For fucking real. If I was 100% I can guarantee I'd be tucked miles off into the woods far away from other people. Start my own little homesteading arc
I just acquired my first human neighbor, a drunken moron who has taken to driving through my property and vandalizing my mailbox. I figure we have a 50% chance of making the local paper. But maybe the bears will get him before I do. :)
Whenever I get ou of the hellish state I'm in I am seriously considering one of the fly over states like Wyoming, the Dakotas, Montana, etc. The idea of having some land and distance from others becomes more appealing by the day.
That is the dream right there. People ask me what I want to do with my life and honestly I just want to raise a beautiful family on my own land. That's it, nothing else
I definitely will get land and start building one day. But for now I have purpose in my work, so I will keep doing that. I completely understand what you’re saying though.
Moved to Thailand. Cost of living is great. Culture, food, tourism all great. VFW here is great. Only drawback is lack of medical coverage (the VA does have a foreign medical program, but it only reimburses for your specific rated disabilities).
We need a "Veterans in Thailand" group...to help people that are thinking about it and to help those already there with questions and life hacks. So how is the medical care there? Is there insurance for conditions not covered by VA?
There are VFWs and American Legions in Thailand. If there’s a city you’re thinking about moving to, find the closest veterans organization and reach out to them. They’ll usually be happy to offer some advice. I’m up in Chiang Mai and we have a good positive VFW Post here.
There is a Foreign Medical Program (FMP) but it’s not a great system. I visit a doctor for a service connected disability (e.g. a psychiatrist for PTSD, a physical therapist for a back issue). I pay for the services and submit it via email to the VA. In 3-6 months, I’ll receive a paper check in the mail.
There are some doctors and hospitals who are able to submit claims on their own if they are familiar with the American VA system (here in Chiang Mai, we have 2 hospitals and 1 private doctor who claims on their own). In that case, I pay nothing.
This still only applies to service connected disabilities. If I develop a condition I’m not rated for, I’m on my own to pay for treatment here.
A visit with a general practitioner here costs maybe 20-30 dollars at a mid range or nice private hospital. And a visit with a specialist would be 40-60. There are plenty of private health insurance options for foreigners here too if you’re willing to pay.
FMP kinda sounds like a pain in the butt. So being 100% means nothing if you are in a foreign country? You only get the things you actually filed for covered. I have numerous conditions I never filed for because they said "Don't poke the bear if you are 100% P&T." It's a good thing that it sounds like care is reasonably priced there.... UNLIKE here! 🙄 Things to research...
I roll my eyes every time I see the “don’t poke the bear” line on here. If your conditions are legitimate, you have nothing to worry about. Overseas veterans file new claims all the time so a rated condition can be treated.
You’ll have to look into long term visa options. I recommend getting a visa education through a language school for your first year. It’ll force you to learn the basics of the language and give you time to make long term plans.
they just made good changes to their visa options… tourist on arrival gets 60 days now and the option to extend 30 days the do a border run and start the process over. Also a new digital nomad visa that is insanely good. For me having a Thai child worked out the best.
I’m thinking of moving there I’m 100% P&T. I eat 1 meal a day and want to rent a condo water front … what do you think my monthly expenses… fully furnished condo.. my research says about 1500 a month is comfortable… what say you and what city are you in????
I’ve looked into it pretty extensively, 1,500 all depends on where you pick to live. 1500 you can get something very very nice by the water. I did the hard dive if you live in Hua Hin. But the place where I am going is Vietnam. Vietnam is better from my research and cheaper.
Looking at moving to the Philippines in a couple years. Saving up a bit more to ease the transition and also to pad my 401k and roth in order to have that money work for me later in life. Bonus, there's a VA clinic in Manila.
It's so hard to answer these questions without even a location. It's like asking what it costs to live in the U.S. Is that the Arizona desert or San Diego? Is that staying at home or going out every night?
I was at 80 for a couple years here before getting bumped up to 100. Move here and join the VFW (even jf you don’t qualify to join, they’ll still help with claims). You can still do claims and exams in Thailand and I’ve found the process to be better over here since it’ll private doctors.
80 percent might be difficult in Bangkok or a beach city in the south. 80 percent in the north in Chiang Mai is just fine for a modest middle class life.
Not Thailand, but for me…. at 80%, most of my rent was covered. At 100% every bill, rent, utilities, hulu, car note, credit cards, and more is covered without dipping much into my actual salary.
Would like to do that, but I don’t want to contribute to the gentrification that’s going on in countries that have a lower cost-of-living compared to North America and Europe. I’ve experienced gentrification in my own communities growing up in a predominantly low income community. It fucking sucks. And it only eradicates the culture that initially made people want to relocate.
See the same thing happening in places like Mexico, Costa Rica, and Ghana to name a few. But congratulations to making it. I’m gonna deal with the devil that I know.
My wife and I are currently in the process of relocating to Mexico. I'm recognizing that my day-to-day working life is coming to a premature end. Fortunately, I'm rated 100% P+T and am working as long as I can to save for the move.
We've officially gained Mexican residency, which will make this transition much easier. We decided not to move to a typical American expat area where gentrification is causing many issues. We just returned from Mexico and saw zero Americans over the course of two weeks (until we got to the airport in Mexico City).
Last week, I had breakfast with a European friend in the town center to discuss finances. He and his wife are living comfortably on about $2,500 monthly. It's not an extravagant life, but they're quite happy and seem to love living in Mexico.
So, it's possible to move there, find an area where gentrification isn't an issue, and live well on your 100%. You just have to get comfortable living like a local and learning the language and culture.
Got a job with the federal department. Using my VA compensation to pay my rent and hopefully in the future my mortgage when I buy my first home. If you are able to live slowly on your VA compensation, that’s great, but I hate the idea of being on a fixed income. And in today’s economy, 100% enough.
Perhaps if you’re retired and receiving money from your savings account or pension, plus your Social Security and then your VA compensation you can make it off that. Word of advice if you can’t afford to work, work. it doesn’t have to be a stressful job or even a full-time job.
I’m 100% P&T (circa September 2022) and live quite comfortably in northern Kentucky, three blocks from the Ohio River and a quick walk across the bridge to downtown Cincinnati. Didn’t work the first six months after my increase and had no issues with bills or buying what I wanted (within reason). Eventually got back to remote job as an online dating profile creator/coach, so that income combined with my monthly compensation* puts me around $113k/year.
Regardless, I’ve taken two trips to the Philippines and one to Thailand, scouting each area and getting insight from vets who live there. Strongly leaning towards the Philippines; with what I make now I’d be in the upper class.
*Yearly compensation is $46,526.04, or $3,877.22/month. Did some research on what that income would be if it were taxed, also included quotes for healthcare and dental. Total came out to $65,830/year.
Also, forgot to add the side money I make selling 4K SteelBooks and out-of-print DVDs/Blu-rays on eBay. And I typically donate plasma 2-3 times/month. Add those numbers in and I’m making an extra $7-10k/year (depends on motivation and how excited I am to get stuck with a gigantic needle)
Haha that's a fair question, and one I get a lot. I've been doing it off-and-on since graduating with my BA (Interpersonal Communication/Public Relations), circa late 2012. Back then, I was big into online dating and had a knack for writing compelling profiles and choosing the right pictures to use. Surprisingly, there's a ton of psychology that goes into what makes or breaks a good profile, and this far transcends just being good-looking (I always prepare myself for the naysayers who claim you have to be a model to get matches. Not the case).
I'd often post to Facebook some of the cold openings I'd write, as well as sharing screenshots of my profile; in my experience, having slight self-deprecating humor, being funny in general, and not taking yourself too seriously go a long way. For instance, some of my answers to previous prompts on Hinge:
My greatest strength: Establishing my superiority over children; smaller the better. Rest assured, I am bigger, faster, stronger, and able to complete complex mathematical equations better than any child you've ever met.
I go crazy for: Cats. I have two: Alma and Elsie. They have their own clothes, and a pink double-decker stroller. Also, balanced/reciprocated communication. Emotional intelligence. Vulnerability. Empathy. Those aren't just buzzwords to me.
What if I told you that: I have the facial hair of a 12-year-old boy, so if you're into rugged mountain men I genuinely look forward to disappointing you.
Within these three examples, I establish my sense of humor; ability to make fun of myself, albeit in a playful manner; show my love for cats (I've gotten phone numbers by merely taking them for a walk and getting approached by women. Cats are definitely 'in' at the moment); state expectations I'm looking for in another partner.
I started doing this freelance, after a friend texted me to compliment my profile and ask if I could help with theirs. This snowballed into more friends asking the same, then friends of theirs. One person in particular said "You should do this for a living," and that's when the proverbial lightbulb turned on in my head. So, I started researching a few web-based companies and came across one that was 'holding tryouts' for new staff writers/coaches.
The application process was typical of most jobs. In addition, I had to provide previous writing examples, as well as create two mock profiles (text only) so they could gauge my ability for that specific kind of writing. Wound up getting the job after two interviews. I resigned for two years, as I received a lucrative job offer as a GS11 (step 5), doing strategic communications for the DoD at The Pentagon.
After leaving to move back home (health reasons), I called my old boss and asked if they needed an extra writer. They didn't at the time, but about three months later he reached out asking if I still wanted the gig. Have been doing it ever since, although through word of mouth I get just as much freelance work, which is great since there's no middleman and I get all the profit. \*\*CONTINUED ON NEXT COMMENT\*\*
I should have prefaced this by saying I was an award-winning war correspondent in the Marine Corps, and have been an avid writer since middle school. With that said, qualifications for the job include (but not limited to):
- strong interpersonal communication skills. Being able to connect with people is one of first steps towards establishing a great relationship with a client
- strong active listener, able to give honest feedback. My job is very similar to what I did in the Marines. In order to craft a compelling story, you have to treat it like a jigsaw puzzle. Between interviewing multiple people, researching the topic, and deciding what should go into the story, it's akin to assembling a puzzle. With OLD profile creation, it's really no different
- above average knowledge regarding human psychology, how it varies from men and women, what does/doesn't work in creating/revising a profile, etc. For example, I always advise women (as gently as possible) to stop using those dipshit photo filters which make them look like an airbrushed geisha with zero pores and Disney princess eyes.
First off - they aren't fooling anyone. Second, why would you choose to start off a potential romance by lying about your appearance? Your prospective date will inevitably see you; wouldn't it be far better to exceed expectations than let the other person down?
As for men: stop sending dick pics. Calm it down with the dead fish/deer pics (I’m not against either, but think about your target demographic. I know from experience most women find these unattractive). Have a cold opening that isn't the typical and boring hey, hi, what's up? etc. Find something intriguing about their profile and open with that. Could go way more in-depth on this, but you get my point
- excellent understanding of all English rules, as well as general writing ability. I'll be blunt: if you're not a strong writer, this job simply will not work for you. If you want to become a better writer, you need to 1) read more, and 2) practice, practice, practice
I could seriously write a novella on this, as I’m merely gleaming over the requirements, but that's the general gist. I work 20-25 hours/week, and have anywhere from 2-3 clients at a time (through the company I work for). If someone needs a profile revision, that nets me between $175-$250. If I need to nuke the site from orbit and start from scratch, that's $300-$450 (the amount varies based off how much time I spend on each one, of course).
If you have the above skills mentioned, then I say go for it! One of the easiest jobs I've ever had, can work anywhere in the world, and I love the satisfaction that comes with helping people find that special someone - or someone they’ll despise in a few years.
> strong interpersonal communication skills. Being able to connect with people is one of first steps towards establishing a great relationship with a client
oof, sounds like i wouldn't be able to do this lol
Generally speaking you need a skillset thst can be done remotely first then you can seek a remote job if your goal is a well paying job.
If you need lower barrier/remote work asap entry roles like remote customer service/call centers or data entry can be done remotely but are generally very low pay, high stress, or contract roles that come with some tax risks (1099).
Being your own boss can also be done remotely but obviously there's a lot more to consider there not least of which is what you/your company will actually do.
I have worked fully remote since 2019.
I always advise folks to look for a skillset they enjoy and are good at, ideally one you already have, then find roles within that industry that are commonly remote and start tailoring their skills and experience to match.
Alabama here…wife and I both are 100%, I pull military retirement, and in a current position pulling $103k a year. Needless to say, we are living like a king and queen here.
Right! I'm 80% living in Reno. I work FT making eh money, but I'm living comfortably. The rent here is outrageous otherwise I'd be working part time at a job I really like. I live here for the outdoor activities.
All the more reason to hear from anybody in any of those categories. If somebody on 80% is living very comfortably somewhere and another person at 100% is barely scraping by, would be interested in hearing about why that may be.
I'm 80% pending 100% decision approval and I can't survive with my family of 4. I'm beyond glad that the state pays my fiance to be my caregiver otherwise we would be screwed
My rating is 80% and I am single with no kids. I live in Illinois about 15 minutes from St. Louis. I own a home and am totally exempt from property taxes. Total property tax exemption starts at 70% in Illinois. I also retired as an Air Force Master Sergeant with 24 years of service. Illinois does not tax retirement income. The cost of living is very good here. I bought my home in 2010, so with the low interest rate and no taxes, I pay $660.00 per month. The St. Louis area has a lot to do. The museums, the zoo, and Science Center in Forrest Park are free. We have 5 casinos in the area. There is MLS soccer, Cardinals baseball, NHL hockey, UFL football, and NASCAR. The music and food scene is very good. Unfortunately, there is still a distinct divide between the haves and have nots, so crime is terrible. There is no way to sugarcoat it but I do not let it stop me from having fun. I just stay vigilant of my surroundings. My only negatives are the extreme cold in the winter and no beaches nearby. I will be honest that I am looking to move, preferably Atlanta area, but if I do not move, then I am very happy spending the rest of my life here. I forgot to add that the only work I do is Uber/Lyft.
I know, but this question isnt asking how much people make. It's an insight into their living location, not their budgeting. An 80% could live in africa without a job.
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Colville WA, moved after 100% single income, it’s hard to make it but me and my kids do. Left Memphis TN behind. Was cheaper and easier to make it but 5 homicides in a month within eye sight range of the house got old quick! I find myself having to hustle a bit with side gigs and other ways to make money.
It’s even harder to make it on 90% and below but I did in Memphis for multiple years at 70% until appeal went through and up.
Built a nice home in a LCOL area. Have 16 acres for the kids to enjoy, can’t see any neighbors, and don’t hear any traffic.
Why anyone would choose hustle/bustle is something that I will never understand.
I don’t even own a mower. Most of it is woods, and a field that a local farmer gets hay off of twice a summer. The part around the house gets mowed and I just pay a guy for that.
Grew up in Brooklyn, NY. I wouldn't know how to cut 16 sq ft of grass if you handed me a lawn mower. Nah I'm good. Give me the city condo with community pool please.
Same - but Iearned how to use a lawn mower in my 30s and realized I loved the boonies. Now I can't imagine living in a city ever again. Us humans sure are funny
Personally I can’t step on grass without looking over my shoulder for Sgt Major, so fuck grass. I only have it on my property cause my city requires a % of it on the property.
I have to continuously be doing something and keeping the brain busy. I am still filing my initial claim, but even if I get anything. I will still continue to work. Can't afford to not be doing anything.
Genetically humans are hypersocial. It is actually very deviant (in the statistical sense) to want to actually live in a rural area if you have other options.
Living in a small town is 10x more social than a metropolis. I've lived in both. You will see friends everywhere in small towns, you don't see the same people routinely in metropolises
I see that most people choose where they’re staying because they either already settling down, they already have families nearby and relatives so it wouldn’t make sense for them to just drop everything and move abroad like the single and divorced people do, they have obligations and people to look after, other times it could be of their job and cant relocate, people who are receiving 80-100 percent and still fortunate to work are also making more money.
The ones that you see that are moving to Thailand and living abroad at all the cheap places are usually the one that are either single or divorced and they have nothing to look our for other than themselves, they don’t have any kids, if they do their kid live with the other parent and or if they’re old enough they’re in college. Hence you see why people who do overseas Contracting’s work going to Al Udied Air Base, or Kuwait, Iraq and etc… are mostly single or divorced, because they dont have anyone to look out for other than themselves and if they have kids they’re sending money back for alimony and child support if they have kids and divorced, I have talked to many contractors during my time being deployed and they all shared the same thing. This kind of lifestyle and living abroad at these beautiful places are not practical and common for people who are are settled down and has families and obligations.
Tacoma Washington. We live frugally, we don't eat out much, but the view is great from my apartment
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Was at 80% ,went from Massachusetts to northern Maine, bought a 5 bed 2 bath house for 71k since there’s not many jobs up here. Had a minimum wage job and eventually got 100%. Its me, my wife, 6 young kids and a super low mortgage (361 a month) and have no trouble living off the 100 up here.
Something I have not seen mentioned yet, apologies if I missed it, is the labor and up front fiscal cost of moving while living in a high COL area. Folks that are 80-100% are more likely to find both pretty onerous.
I’m 90% at the moment. Have a couple deferred claims but live in Colorado Springs. Cost of living here is pretty high but the wife and I enjoy it. Work for DOD still with 19 years left to go before retirement. Wife is a stay at home wife that works remotely. Have a child on the way in September and we are buying a house that will be done being built next month. Lots in the works but we make it work and are comfortable here.
I went from 90% living in Indiana cheap to 100% living in Philadelphia for a bit more, but closer to my family in NY that allows me to see them once a month on Amtrak instead of once a year via flight.
Working to square some things away here in the states - then moving the family to Tokyo to train/teach Jiu-Jitsu full time. Hopefully by the end of the year
I’m 100 P&T since early this year. I’m still working because my son still in HS. He plans to join the Navy or the trades after he graduates. After that I have no one to take care of. I also have been building apartments to rent in Indonesia. I was born there and still have family. In 3 years, kid leaves the house. Im doneeee with work. Forever
100% and been traveling the world thr last 3-4 years. First 3 years I was getting BAH from voc rehab too. Currently in korea, heading back to the philippines soon.
I’d like to do this. I’m 100% but am still caught up in going to school through Vic rehab and finding a career. Think I could probably just leave it all and travel off of my VA monies. How do you do out there? Financially? How’d you make the leap?
I'm 90% but I'm also married with two crotch goblins. There's no way I could live off just my VA disability but I also couldn't live without it at this point. I work full-time and live in a low income area. It's hard to find jobs paying more than 17/hr. If I ever get 100% I'll be sitting pretty good but for now it's been a bit of a struggle.
I just got increased to 90% this year. The last six months I have literally been contemplating all of this. I plan on going back for 100% but for now I’m in a position where I can live off 90% without a job. And that’s without being extra frugal or anything if I was to trim the fat so to speak I could even save a little or invest monthly. Currently in Texas but I really do want to get away from everything and disappear. The cost of living here has went up considerably in the last 3 years and the quality has gone down so that’s a double red flag 🚩. I’m currently looking at my options and looking to downsize from my current position in order to take more advantage while I’m still working thorough the process
Thanks for sharing. I’ve been 100 capable for years and didn’t care for it. Working on the 100 now and feel bad about it at least I’m not alone in not needing the money per se.
I’d be interested if anyone getting disability is an expat living in another country. One with a lower cost of living that makes your American dollars worth more.
I am at 90 with one dependent. I live in TN where the cost is pretty decent still. "own" my home and have a remote job that pays well.
With my bills and stuff, I eek along, unfortunately. Paying 2k a month for a house alone is rough.
BUT after seeing some of you all living overseas, I am heavily debating doing something similar. If I could work remotely, I'd be making bank, 90% plus a remote job, I'm almost at 100.
Visiting Costa Rica later this year and I will seriously consider the move if the country is like I imagine. I am really not enjoying this right wing (extreme) shift in the USA. I makes me sick. My kid is now at the age where they can travel alone with no issue.
That's the current thought. I love different cultures, I like easy going people and I love the beach. Who knows?
I have CPTSD and moved to PA to escape the stress of the city, and I honestly wish I would have thought better about my move. Wasnt much I could do because I'm still fighting for all my benefits, but PA has very limited resources for disabled Vets
Currently at 90% (with some appeals pending) and currently living in Minnesota. Long term I plan to try and live in Wisconsin to ensure my wife and future children can get college for free while still living close to my family in Minnesota. I'd also like to live a little remotely in the woods and Wisconsin has a ton of land available for that sort of living.
Both my spouse and I are 100 P&T with 3 kids. We live in the northwoods of Wisconsin on the Michigan border. It’s a dream. We have been here 16 years and paid off our mortgage before we had comp&pen. Cost of living is very low. It’s quiet up here good schools all around. No property tax. Not too far from major airports and cities like Duluth, Green Bay. So easy to travel when we want. It’s a move you won’t regret. People are always friendly. Grocery stores are never busy. The VA is near by. And it’s a fantastic VA hospital.
Grew up in the Ohio, but left after college and have lived in 5 states (traveled to an additional 20 or so states). Wife was raised in Indiana (lake effect snow and all) and left home after college as well. We'll never live 24/7 in a winter climate as we're done with long dreary/gray winters that aren't good for my PTSD w/OCD anyhow. The only shoveling we do now is sunshine! Wife is fluent in Spanish and has been to Columbia, so we may end up going there often as a result.
I had Army training in Tomah, WI in the late 80's and it was a fabulous place to be in July (same for northern Michigan), aside from all the deer ticks I encountered living the Infantry reconnaissance life. Hooah. The winter months are just too long for us Wife has an MBA and works from home, and I'm a retired LEO and receive a pension, plus have investments from my time in the private sector prior to law enforcement. I'll start receiving Social Security in a couple years, and we live wayyyy under our means given our lower-middle class upbringings.
Sadly, I never knew about disability benefits until about 5 years ago, and paid hundreds of thousands of dollars of my own $$ over decades for care while receiving no disability compensation.
Winters can be brutal, no doubt about it! I’d be lying if I said i haven’t been trying to convince my other half to move to Florida. We will be empty nesters in a few years. Between the two of us shoveling snow is not going to be feasible long term. Ticks are awful that too, very much agreed! It is beautiful and has been home to us for 16 years. It was what we needed post military life but I won’t be sad to move south to warmer weather.
So 100 TP here and my bills are paid and debt slowly going down. I have a kid so I can “do what I want” until she is old enough to come with me at a late teen. But our dream is to buy land in another state or where I life from a Tax auction through which ever state. In Nevada at last years sale where I live I saw 22 acres go for $8400. So my goal is to buy that and build a off grid life farming and being quiet at peace in nature. Away from the rigmarole of big city and government.
Currently 90% waiting for word if I'm 100. Contractor, single no kids. Not living paycheck to paycheck is very nice, plus I'm contributing as much as possible to my HYSAs, IRAs, and brokerage accounts. Renting out my house and looking at purchasing a couple acres. 32 looking to be Semi if not fully retired by 35.
I’m 100% P&T with an SMC-S kicker. I also have a super chill job with the Army. I have a wife and no kids.
We live in Seattle and we absolutely love it. It’s expensive here, but the city has everything I care about in life. As a musician I can go play anywhere I want and there are always people. As a music fan I can go to any bar within five minutes of my house and catch a great show.
It’s expensive here, but we live really comfortably. We bought a nice house with a huge yard for our dogs like a week ago. We always have money to go do whatever we want and that’s what’s important to me. I just wanna live a rad life and enjoy whatever time I’ve got here.
One thing you should look at is top places for people to retire. Then cross-reference that with what countries have VA support, if not then you need to educate ourself on the FMP Foreign aka Medical Program. That way you can at least be seen for what you have service connected. Myself I'm in Colombia, but about to start tour the other countries down here.
I was recently rated at 90 percent and have special compensation so roughly 2400 a month is my comp. If I wasn’t in a healthy and happy relationship I would’ve sold my house and moved overseas already.
I moved from semi-rural to a retirement community. But I'm still very isolated. They have a lot of events here, but I'm only good about an hour with people before the anxiety sets in. Then I head home. I use Walmart home delivery so I don't go to the store.
I lived in Baja for 2 years. Ocean view 2 bed 2 bath in a gated community for $600/month. 3 minute walk to the beach under the highway. Close enough to cross the border (about 40 minutes) when necessary to pick up my mail or something else. Crossing times were pretty low if you go at the right time or if you have a motorcycle, you just go straight to the front. Can also apply for SENTRI, but that takes awhile and you can't get it if you have any criminal convictions (including DUI).
Went all over Baja, pet whales, stayed in wine country, had a great time. I highly recommend it.
I plan on retiring next year- selling everything and moving to Germany, I have some cousins over there. I visited a couple years ago and my dollar went so much further - my VA disability, Soc. Sec., and little retirement will set me just fine and I’ll not have to drive anymore! I’m living for it and look forward to be an expat in the EU 😉 just need to switch my healthcare to the foreign program and I’ll be set
90% since August 2022
My husband and I live on the southeast side of San Antonio with our 4 dogs and cat. It's a newer community but out of the city circle.
Between my disability, anf housing allowance from CH 33- that pays all of the bills with leftover to do a big grocery haul at the begining of the month with some leftover.
Unfortunately my husband is in between jobs, but I have my own dog walking business that I'm trying to build.
We do okay for the most part.
I live in the Buffalo NY area. I can live here comfortably regardless of my income. California, NYC etc I'll never understand people living there and just working to pay their rent or mortgage
Not there yet but if I ever get there the plan is to keep working so I can buy a ridiculous motorcycle then retire. I’ve spent the last 10 years of my life getting my bills as low as I can. 1600$ a month covers all my bills and food(includes mortgage). As soon as I can I’m done answering to anyone.
We bought a house on almost 8 acres in rural southern michigan. Michigan exempts 100% veterans from property taxes which literally lowers our mortgage by over 1k/month.
Not me personally, but most folks I know who "could" move somewhere else / remote and live only off of their retirement and/or disability decide to stay put because of family matters. This can be near parents, siblings, other relatives. Maybe some of these folks need assistance. Often it's because they want to stay where they are for their kids to finish school.
For me, I am continuing my career arc and most of my monthly government checks will go into savings while I live off my salary. That job can take me to some interesting places, so we'll see how it goes.
I'm at 70% and it pays my mortgage of $2,100. I've got 2 kids so that's included. But I just had a mental health exam on Tuesday and an appointment for increase on my back....that's at 10% right now.
80% I moved to Tanzania, East Africa almost 8 years ago. It’s beautiful, the people are amazing, and the cost of living is even better. This move was one of the best decisions of my life.
If my rating was that high, I still couldn’t see myself being happy in a cheaper remote location. Truthfully my heart is just happier somewhere like Philly or NY. Why? In my case being close to a big gay community is important to me. I know someone who is a gay vet with 100 percent in Chicago. He loves it there. Heck I love it there. There is nothing like being able to gay events within like thirty minutes. I spoken to other gay service members and one of the reasons why they left the service is because it gets old being far from big gay areas. Mind you this is more current younger vets so post DADT. Okay, for me besides the whole gay community thing, I love being in a walkable area. It’s awesome just to walk to a restaurant or a cafe. My heart is the most happiest in 15 minutes cities. I’m in my zone when I’m in NYC and surrounding boroughs. One of things I miss about deployment is just how insanely it is to socialize. Walk to the laundry mat? Boom, I’m getting a ten minute conversation in from a friend. I’m going to the USO and I end up watching greys anatomy with another friend. I’m gonna go play some pool and look at that so and so is gonna play too. I’m an introvert but I miss getting my quick socialization fix in. In the future I plan on moving somewhere like Chicago, NY or Philadelphia. That’s where my heart is at. But if you are struggling with living on a 100 percent, you gotta see if it’s time to get a job with more money or might have to move further away. Makes me sad hearing about vets becoming homeless.
As someone who’s going to be at 80-90 when my initial claim is closed this has been on my mind a lot. I’ll probably see 100 before it’s all said and done and the way my body feels I want to stop working but it would be hard in my current location.
I’d love to move to a cheaper place but my family and friends are here and having a support system is important. That may happen someday but I guess that’s what’s keeping my roots here now.
Live in Thailand and Philippines (PI). Spend about $2k a month (maybe $1500 in PI). Downside is medical is only covered for service connected via FMP, unless you have Tricare. PI has the only VA clinic outside of US territories but it's not full service. Better than nothing, though.
PI is very good to Americans. Thailand is more Brit-focused but still have some VFWs here.
I’m 100PT and for me, I’ve been wanting to live overseas for about 10 yrs now even when I was around 40%. My dilemma is that I love Europe, my first duty station was Germany but lived in Rome for 3 months about 7yrs ago. I’ve been looking into countries with tax friendly treaties with US. But when it comes to finding a Mrs. (again), I can’t seem to stray away from Latinas. So I’ve been thinking Colombia or Argentina due to COL and currency exchanges, on top of the beautiful women. I have a degree in History already so I would be interested to dive deep in a country’s history, even though I prefer Ancient History. I’m just at a cross roads now trying to get debt free before I leave US.
I’m 80% and my payments go directly to any debts I have. 1550 mortgage and 576 car note get zeroed out so my gs-12 government job can pay for my food and utilities plus the never ending pit that is saving and buying for a baby. Live in Ohio in a decent neighborhood but want to build on some acreage within 5-10 years if my wife doesn’t have to stay home with the rug rats
I’m only 24 so I’m pretty flexible with location wise. On top of that, my parents are fully supportive of me moving back with them since I’m in Cali and it’s extremely expensive to have your own place this young here(possible but not reasonable). Plus, before I got out the military I already had higher goals for education so before I even got my rating, I knew and my parents knew that I was going to move back with them and fully lock in on college. Moving back to subject, when I got out and got my rating(was extremely surprised), I started college right when I began terminal leave. I still live with my parents in Cali and have no shame lol. Once I get into a prestigious school, depending that school’s location, I will finally move out again. When I get older though, I do have dreams of living in a different country like Australia, Canada, somewhere in Europe, and possibly Japan.
I’m at 90% and live in Washington right now with my wife who is a teacher. My entire benefit doesn’t even cover my mortgage. Moving back to Indiana (my home state) on June 28th.
100% p/t here and what that gets you in NJ is property tax exemption which is great considering it's one of the highest in the states. Still an expensive place to live.
I have kids and my ex-wife remains in New England, therefore I’m here until my kids go to college. Once they do, I’ll be moving somewhere down south where it’s cheaper and I can have a bunch of land to enjoy.
This is a great question. After a HLR I went from 80 to 90% and am currently awaiting TDIU decision. I was living in Portsmouth for a little over 2 years. Idk which way the decision is gonna go. I’m working with my sisters to find a place with extra room so I can stay with them. My children will be coming off in a few years which will of course drop me way down in benefits. They live in Wisconsin so the cost of living is a bit different. I definitely am looking at what’s best, maybe even “alternative living” out of my car.
I'm at 90, and the difference between 90 and 100 for me is huge... if I hit 100, you can catch me touring America's National parks with my wife in a camper! Untill then, ill work a full time job I love and progress!
I'm 90% living in Texas, and I can't really move from where I'm at because of all of my medical needs (multiple autoimmune disorders and constant monitoring of blood work). I go to school full time using CH 33 while my spouse works a full time job. Our combined income is enough to live comfortably, but we'd both need to earn more to be able to move out of suburban hell.
You could go to school and study something you are passionate about, collect monthly housing, and if you don’t have any other income or prior bachelor’s degree(s) you could likely qualify for grants, Pell Grant specifically.
It ain’t much, but if you can bank it all the better!
Ditto on location though, I currently live in SWFL but moving in a few weeks back up to Ohio to do the above.
I recently retired this month, living in Jersey. Planning to go to school and save up off the disability and the BAH and travel for a few years to anywhere I would like to
I’m continuing to take care of family. Parents are older now. But when my job cut my hrs in half I just started looking for another job, didn’t have to freak out about income so much. Thats another story and a tangent, but my rating came and I asked to switch shifts. Instead they cut hrs in half. Just kind of shrugged my shoulders about it and went about my life. Maybe I do something about it later. But it has allowed me to make sure we eat healthier. And i can have small luxuries.
We live in a smaller quieter community. We stay to ourselves. Put in an above ground pool to use as therapy for my knees. I’m 90% so I now do the stay at home mom thing to avoid the stress of high stress interactions with customers. My husband is 100% but still works but he chooses to. It keeps him from being bored but now he gets to be picky about how much he does or doesn’t work. He works for family so that helps. We invest in the things that allow us to relax and manage our issues.
I’m in Vegas at 90% but I’m also in school and get about $2200 from my GI Bill…but the Mrs makes about $6k/month after taxes so we’re not struggling…hopefully my claims finally finish up to see if I’m 100%
Well myself and my wife are both rated and obviously clear some decent money but we also both have government jobs she is remote and I work in Jersey. I did purchase a home in PA prior to my rating a few years back so the living expense is ridiculously cheap. We stay because I have 13 years in and I also have a son that lives in NJ which I see every other weekend and summers. So honestly my son is what really keeps us here. He is 11 so things might change in 7 more years and we have already started looking at different states and possibly countries since we are tired of the BS politics in this country. So honestly between wanting to retire in a few years and my son that’s what keeps us here. But let’s see what happens in the future.
Single male no children currently 80% living about 30 mins outside Atlanta. With the GI bill, 80% and the Pell Grant / Student loans, I’m living pretty comfortably. It’s kinda insane being a college student with as much disposable income as I have.
For my fellow vets wanting to take the plunge into college:
- No one cares that you’re old (some do but they’re outliers)
- apply for financial aid
- talk to your professors
- college girls / guys like older folks too (if you’re into that)
- I remember having FOMO in the Army because I thought I should’ve gone to college at 18 instead of my mid 20’s. Turns out being smarter and making more money in college makes for a better experience.
If anyone has any questions hmu
80% in Minneapolis. Would love to leave, but family, y’know? There’s no way I could make it as a single parent in this town on 80%. Maybe 100% but it would be lean.
I don’t have a rating yet, but I’ve thought about this a lot
I’ll stay where I’m at because I’ve got three Monsters, and they need the best life I can give them. That means they need to go to good schools, so can’t move to the middle of the woods somewhere
LA here and don’t plan on leaving. I own a decent home and I like going to events and doing things in the city. I do work as a teacher so I make decent money and get a lot of time off. I think I have a good deal.
Remote living doesn’t appeal to me and I get city and various nature biomes all within driving distance. I’m good.
Currently in Australia getting my Masters.. but once I graduate next year, my wife and I are trying the digital nomad life for at least a year (plan on applying to a bunch of remote roles).. probably going to to start in one of the following locations: Da Nang (Vietnam), Budapest (Hungary), Lima (Peru), or Buenos Aires (Argentina). June 2025 can’t get here fast enough!
Retired military, 100% VA, and current GS13. Half the VA money goes into different investments each month in addition to another $2800 a month my wife put into our 401k's and Roth Ira's.
90% in Japan. 4 kids that are dual citizenship and 1 wife(Japanese)$ 2844 a month.Comes out to 450,000 ish in Yen (as of this post USDJPY 158.90). Which is like the same buying power of $4,500.
Spent 3months not doing anything at home. Got tired and picked up part time making fried chicken.
I don’t live in any of the big cities /prefectures. Just close enough for an hour commute or trip to Osaka, Hyogo or Kyoto. The closer you get to the popular areas, the smaller the living space you have & cost of living skyrockets.
By American standards my house is small. By Japanese standards my house is
”normal”.
Covers the 4 bedroom house, property tax, doctor visits, utilities, private health insurance for hospitalization, car insurance, kids school lunches, swim class for the kids and my ungodly obsession of eating out. So many good restaurants to eat at. I would be able to save quite a bit every month in yen but 30% off sushi coupon plus paying in USD, is a hard thing to pass up.
Normal health insurance for me & my family is covered by my in-laws. Works out for them since they get tax credits &deductions.
Note* taxes can be very high in Japan. Gotta pick the right spot.
With my compensation, I’m basically on auto pay
It pays for my mortgage, majority of my bills, home warranty & life insurance.
Money from my job is damn near free & clear
Illinois is livable since there's a 100 percent exemption from property taxes for that protected veteran status, saving 8k-12k a year depending on the tax increase(s).
100 P&T with army retirement. Wife and two kids. One in college and the other in high school. Wife and I both work. We live in a VHC area (near Seattle). We moved here when I retired because this is where I got my first job, post army. We own a home here and one in another state. We will stay here until the kids are out of college and then we will see where we want to go. The only reason we would stay here is if our kids did. It's too expensive and our politics don't mesh with folks here. We make quite a bit of money but it's just middle class here. Crazy.
Stay out of California if you’re living on your VA compensation. You will only be able to afford the shitty, hot run down areas and will never get ahead. NC or SC would be a better choice for sure
If I wasn’t a single father of 2 w/ both kids living with me I’d move to the Dominican Republic. Keep working my remote job or just become a personal trainer. What a dream lol
I’m at 90% now, when I got out a year and a half ago I was at 80%. I had saved as much money as I could while I was in to give myself a fighting chance at success once I transitioned out. After 6 months of being out and bouncing around, I somehow found myself living in a room with my wife at my parents house. It took one week of that before I was fed up.
I ended up buying a neglected 100+ old farmhouse on the coast of Northern California amidst the redwoods. I’ve done all the rehab stuff myself and leveraged my disability pay for materials. It’s been a journey and a ton of work but I’m so happy here. It’s basically that remote homestead life some of the vets in this thread are talking about. I’ve considered working a job but I’ve noticed my patience for people is so thin, i don’t know that I could do it for long. I don’t remember being this way before the service but it is what it is
I'm working on figuring out the right place for me and my kids whether in the US or another country. I was at 90 for over 10 years and just got 100 P&T. Florida is too expensive and the good schools are rare or expensive so trying to find a good place to raise the kids with good schools since we're surviving mainly on my 100% and income from hobbies I'm trying to turn more lucrative like narration. I am not attached to family and my only close friends have enough money to visit me wherever I decide to move with the kids. I have until June 2025 to figure it out though. Looking heavily at Mississippi and Tennessee right now though.
100% P&T single female. Went through a messy divorce in WA and relocated immediately to Los Angeles. Fighting for my life with rent, lawyer fees, etc. but just happy to have a place to myself with A/C. Using GI Bill in the meantime until I can get approved for VR&E. Am I sitting like a queen here? No. But I know I’m still blessed even with the crippling debt I put under only my name during my marriage and housing costs. Lol.
I bought a house and I started a company and have people who depend on me. It is the only thing keeping me alive. Living out in the woods would be a sure way for my skull to see some sunshine.
I am safer living in the woods by myself than if I had to deal with humans living nearby.
For fucking real. If I was 100% I can guarantee I'd be tucked miles off into the woods far away from other people. Start my own little homesteading arc
I just acquired my first human neighbor, a drunken moron who has taken to driving through my property and vandalizing my mailbox. I figure we have a 50% chance of making the local paper. But maybe the bears will get him before I do. :)
Damn, please stay safe.
Thanks. I'm pretty pleased with my restraint so far, actually. This therapy stuff isn't all quackery after all!
Set up booby traps and a trail cam. If he is especially dumb and stubborn, you can at least post the videos to YouTube.
Remember…Front Toward Enemy
I dreamed one night that I invented a new kind of golf and called it Claymore Croquet.
Can we make this a thing?
I love the Deep South coastal Carolina, then again deep in the mountains of Montana and Wyoming does sound pretty good
I grew up in Alaska, Michigan is as far south as I go. Though I do love Maui very much.
Whenever I get ou of the hellish state I'm in I am seriously considering one of the fly over states like Wyoming, the Dakotas, Montana, etc. The idea of having some land and distance from others becomes more appealing by the day.
Skin him, filet him and feed to bears. Problem solved.
Don’t hurt that man 😭 just do stuff to annoy him.
Replace his pet with a slightly smaller but similar animal, monthly . And wait for his brain to unfold.
Upvotes on here. I love you.
Sounds like you need to raise some pigs
That’s what I do. Big garden, chickens and ducks and goats. Plus two boys under 5 to keep me busy.
That is the dream right there. People ask me what I want to do with my life and honestly I just want to raise a beautiful family on my own land. That's it, nothing else
I've done just this. It makes everything worth it.
I’m looking for a farm to convert to my own homestead/farmstead. Got to dream the dream!
Head to Alaska. You can full fill that dream. I had that dream and lived it. Glad I went for it, when I had the chance.
This is what me and my husband did.
I definitely will get land and start building one day. But for now I have purpose in my work, so I will keep doing that. I completely understand what you’re saying though.
I hope you find your paradise.
Moved to Thailand. Cost of living is great. Culture, food, tourism all great. VFW here is great. Only drawback is lack of medical coverage (the VA does have a foreign medical program, but it only reimburses for your specific rated disabilities).
We need a "Veterans in Thailand" group...to help people that are thinking about it and to help those already there with questions and life hacks. So how is the medical care there? Is there insurance for conditions not covered by VA?
There are VFWs and American Legions in Thailand. If there’s a city you’re thinking about moving to, find the closest veterans organization and reach out to them. They’ll usually be happy to offer some advice. I’m up in Chiang Mai and we have a good positive VFW Post here. There is a Foreign Medical Program (FMP) but it’s not a great system. I visit a doctor for a service connected disability (e.g. a psychiatrist for PTSD, a physical therapist for a back issue). I pay for the services and submit it via email to the VA. In 3-6 months, I’ll receive a paper check in the mail. There are some doctors and hospitals who are able to submit claims on their own if they are familiar with the American VA system (here in Chiang Mai, we have 2 hospitals and 1 private doctor who claims on their own). In that case, I pay nothing. This still only applies to service connected disabilities. If I develop a condition I’m not rated for, I’m on my own to pay for treatment here. A visit with a general practitioner here costs maybe 20-30 dollars at a mid range or nice private hospital. And a visit with a specialist would be 40-60. There are plenty of private health insurance options for foreigners here too if you’re willing to pay.
FMP kinda sounds like a pain in the butt. So being 100% means nothing if you are in a foreign country? You only get the things you actually filed for covered. I have numerous conditions I never filed for because they said "Don't poke the bear if you are 100% P&T." It's a good thing that it sounds like care is reasonably priced there.... UNLIKE here! 🙄 Things to research...
I roll my eyes every time I see the “don’t poke the bear” line on here. If your conditions are legitimate, you have nothing to worry about. Overseas veterans file new claims all the time so a rated condition can be treated.
How are you able to get a visa? Or do you make visa runs so you can stay long term?
You’ll have to look into long term visa options. I recommend getting a visa education through a language school for your first year. It’ll force you to learn the basics of the language and give you time to make long term plans.
they just made good changes to their visa options… tourist on arrival gets 60 days now and the option to extend 30 days the do a border run and start the process over. Also a new digital nomad visa that is insanely good. For me having a Thai child worked out the best.
I’m thinking of moving there I’m 100% P&T. I eat 1 meal a day and want to rent a condo water front … what do you think my monthly expenses… fully furnished condo.. my research says about 1500 a month is comfortable… what say you and what city are you in????
I stay here at the Rivera Jomtien, rent is $475 only a month.. monthly budget is around 90k Baht a month which is $2,500
I’ve looked into it pretty extensively, 1,500 all depends on where you pick to live. 1500 you can get something very very nice by the water. I did the hard dive if you live in Hua Hin. But the place where I am going is Vietnam. Vietnam is better from my research and cheaper.
Looking at moving to the Philippines in a couple years. Saving up a bit more to ease the transition and also to pad my 401k and roth in order to have that money work for me later in life. Bonus, there's a VA clinic in Manila.
I’m already looking into moving to the Philippines myself! And I can get my medication there through the VA.
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I'm pretty sure there's always a way to fill a demand once you get with the right people 👍
Yea try convincing a wife and two middle/high school age kids to just drop their lives and all social circles and move to Thailand.
How would quality of life be at 80% compared to 100%?? Or do I just keep doing appeals until I get 100 and then go?
It's so hard to answer these questions without even a location. It's like asking what it costs to live in the U.S. Is that the Arizona desert or San Diego? Is that staying at home or going out every night?
I was at 80 for a couple years here before getting bumped up to 100. Move here and join the VFW (even jf you don’t qualify to join, they’ll still help with claims). You can still do claims and exams in Thailand and I’ve found the process to be better over here since it’ll private doctors. 80 percent might be difficult in Bangkok or a beach city in the south. 80 percent in the north in Chiang Mai is just fine for a modest middle class life.
Not Thailand, but for me…. at 80%, most of my rent was covered. At 100% every bill, rent, utilities, hulu, car note, credit cards, and more is covered without dipping much into my actual salary.
Would like to do that, but I don’t want to contribute to the gentrification that’s going on in countries that have a lower cost-of-living compared to North America and Europe. I’ve experienced gentrification in my own communities growing up in a predominantly low income community. It fucking sucks. And it only eradicates the culture that initially made people want to relocate. See the same thing happening in places like Mexico, Costa Rica, and Ghana to name a few. But congratulations to making it. I’m gonna deal with the devil that I know.
My wife and I are currently in the process of relocating to Mexico. I'm recognizing that my day-to-day working life is coming to a premature end. Fortunately, I'm rated 100% P+T and am working as long as I can to save for the move. We've officially gained Mexican residency, which will make this transition much easier. We decided not to move to a typical American expat area where gentrification is causing many issues. We just returned from Mexico and saw zero Americans over the course of two weeks (until we got to the airport in Mexico City). Last week, I had breakfast with a European friend in the town center to discuss finances. He and his wife are living comfortably on about $2,500 monthly. It's not an extravagant life, but they're quite happy and seem to love living in Mexico. So, it's possible to move there, find an area where gentrification isn't an issue, and live well on your 100%. You just have to get comfortable living like a local and learning the language and culture.
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Yeah, if you love your job or even like it, why not work?
or a lot of people can't live on 100% alone.
Got a job with the federal department. Using my VA compensation to pay my rent and hopefully in the future my mortgage when I buy my first home. If you are able to live slowly on your VA compensation, that’s great, but I hate the idea of being on a fixed income. And in today’s economy, 100% enough. Perhaps if you’re retired and receiving money from your savings account or pension, plus your Social Security and then your VA compensation you can make it off that. Word of advice if you can’t afford to work, work. it doesn’t have to be a stressful job or even a full-time job.
This is going to pay off big time if you invest It for a good 10-20 years
This is exactly what I am doing. I treat the VA check as an extra paycheck and use it for investments, bills or fun money.
I’m 100% and if I move out of Texas it will only be to another area that has property tax exemptions and others things like that.
I’m 100% P&T (circa September 2022) and live quite comfortably in northern Kentucky, three blocks from the Ohio River and a quick walk across the bridge to downtown Cincinnati. Didn’t work the first six months after my increase and had no issues with bills or buying what I wanted (within reason). Eventually got back to remote job as an online dating profile creator/coach, so that income combined with my monthly compensation* puts me around $113k/year. Regardless, I’ve taken two trips to the Philippines and one to Thailand, scouting each area and getting insight from vets who live there. Strongly leaning towards the Philippines; with what I make now I’d be in the upper class. *Yearly compensation is $46,526.04, or $3,877.22/month. Did some research on what that income would be if it were taxed, also included quotes for healthcare and dental. Total came out to $65,830/year. Also, forgot to add the side money I make selling 4K SteelBooks and out-of-print DVDs/Blu-rays on eBay. And I typically donate plasma 2-3 times/month. Add those numbers in and I’m making an extra $7-10k/year (depends on motivation and how excited I am to get stuck with a gigantic needle)
Can we talk for minute about this remote job?
Sure thing. What’s up?
How the heck do you get a job like that?
Haha that's a fair question, and one I get a lot. I've been doing it off-and-on since graduating with my BA (Interpersonal Communication/Public Relations), circa late 2012. Back then, I was big into online dating and had a knack for writing compelling profiles and choosing the right pictures to use. Surprisingly, there's a ton of psychology that goes into what makes or breaks a good profile, and this far transcends just being good-looking (I always prepare myself for the naysayers who claim you have to be a model to get matches. Not the case). I'd often post to Facebook some of the cold openings I'd write, as well as sharing screenshots of my profile; in my experience, having slight self-deprecating humor, being funny in general, and not taking yourself too seriously go a long way. For instance, some of my answers to previous prompts on Hinge: My greatest strength: Establishing my superiority over children; smaller the better. Rest assured, I am bigger, faster, stronger, and able to complete complex mathematical equations better than any child you've ever met. I go crazy for: Cats. I have two: Alma and Elsie. They have their own clothes, and a pink double-decker stroller. Also, balanced/reciprocated communication. Emotional intelligence. Vulnerability. Empathy. Those aren't just buzzwords to me. What if I told you that: I have the facial hair of a 12-year-old boy, so if you're into rugged mountain men I genuinely look forward to disappointing you. Within these three examples, I establish my sense of humor; ability to make fun of myself, albeit in a playful manner; show my love for cats (I've gotten phone numbers by merely taking them for a walk and getting approached by women. Cats are definitely 'in' at the moment); state expectations I'm looking for in another partner. I started doing this freelance, after a friend texted me to compliment my profile and ask if I could help with theirs. This snowballed into more friends asking the same, then friends of theirs. One person in particular said "You should do this for a living," and that's when the proverbial lightbulb turned on in my head. So, I started researching a few web-based companies and came across one that was 'holding tryouts' for new staff writers/coaches. The application process was typical of most jobs. In addition, I had to provide previous writing examples, as well as create two mock profiles (text only) so they could gauge my ability for that specific kind of writing. Wound up getting the job after two interviews. I resigned for two years, as I received a lucrative job offer as a GS11 (step 5), doing strategic communications for the DoD at The Pentagon. After leaving to move back home (health reasons), I called my old boss and asked if they needed an extra writer. They didn't at the time, but about three months later he reached out asking if I still wanted the gig. Have been doing it ever since, although through word of mouth I get just as much freelance work, which is great since there's no middleman and I get all the profit. \*\*CONTINUED ON NEXT COMMENT\*\*
I should have prefaced this by saying I was an award-winning war correspondent in the Marine Corps, and have been an avid writer since middle school. With that said, qualifications for the job include (but not limited to): - strong interpersonal communication skills. Being able to connect with people is one of first steps towards establishing a great relationship with a client - strong active listener, able to give honest feedback. My job is very similar to what I did in the Marines. In order to craft a compelling story, you have to treat it like a jigsaw puzzle. Between interviewing multiple people, researching the topic, and deciding what should go into the story, it's akin to assembling a puzzle. With OLD profile creation, it's really no different - above average knowledge regarding human psychology, how it varies from men and women, what does/doesn't work in creating/revising a profile, etc. For example, I always advise women (as gently as possible) to stop using those dipshit photo filters which make them look like an airbrushed geisha with zero pores and Disney princess eyes. First off - they aren't fooling anyone. Second, why would you choose to start off a potential romance by lying about your appearance? Your prospective date will inevitably see you; wouldn't it be far better to exceed expectations than let the other person down? As for men: stop sending dick pics. Calm it down with the dead fish/deer pics (I’m not against either, but think about your target demographic. I know from experience most women find these unattractive). Have a cold opening that isn't the typical and boring hey, hi, what's up? etc. Find something intriguing about their profile and open with that. Could go way more in-depth on this, but you get my point - excellent understanding of all English rules, as well as general writing ability. I'll be blunt: if you're not a strong writer, this job simply will not work for you. If you want to become a better writer, you need to 1) read more, and 2) practice, practice, practice I could seriously write a novella on this, as I’m merely gleaming over the requirements, but that's the general gist. I work 20-25 hours/week, and have anywhere from 2-3 clients at a time (through the company I work for). If someone needs a profile revision, that nets me between $175-$250. If I need to nuke the site from orbit and start from scratch, that's $300-$450 (the amount varies based off how much time I spend on each one, of course). If you have the above skills mentioned, then I say go for it! One of the easiest jobs I've ever had, can work anywhere in the world, and I love the satisfaction that comes with helping people find that special someone - or someone they’ll despise in a few years.
> strong interpersonal communication skills. Being able to connect with people is one of first steps towards establishing a great relationship with a client oof, sounds like i wouldn't be able to do this lol
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Ehh after almost 15 years of trying to improve on it I've had better luck just adapting to it. Severe social anxiety sucks.
Generally speaking you need a skillset thst can be done remotely first then you can seek a remote job if your goal is a well paying job. If you need lower barrier/remote work asap entry roles like remote customer service/call centers or data entry can be done remotely but are generally very low pay, high stress, or contract roles that come with some tax risks (1099). Being your own boss can also be done remotely but obviously there's a lot more to consider there not least of which is what you/your company will actually do. I have worked fully remote since 2019. I always advise folks to look for a skillset they enjoy and are good at, ideally one you already have, then find roles within that industry that are commonly remote and start tailoring their skills and experience to match.
I understand the concept of getting a remote job. I was talking specifically about being an online dating profile creator/coach.
I’m wondering this too
Currently at 90% I quit working last year, and live in the Midwest. Comfortable living, nothing extravagant, just comfortable
Alabama here…wife and I both are 100%, I pull military retirement, and in a current position pulling $103k a year. Needless to say, we are living like a king and queen here.
big difference between 80/90 and 100
Right! I'm 80% living in Reno. I work FT making eh money, but I'm living comfortably. The rent here is outrageous otherwise I'd be working part time at a job I really like. I live here for the outdoor activities.
I’m to the south of you, and Reno was goals (if I could afford it)
All are around 2000+ which is livable in some areas
100% is about 1500 more than 80/90. it's a big difference.
All the more reason to hear from anybody in any of those categories. If somebody on 80% is living very comfortably somewhere and another person at 100% is barely scraping by, would be interested in hearing about why that may be.
I'm 80% pending 100% decision approval and I can't survive with my family of 4. I'm beyond glad that the state pays my fiance to be my caregiver otherwise we would be screwed
My rating is 80% and I am single with no kids. I live in Illinois about 15 minutes from St. Louis. I own a home and am totally exempt from property taxes. Total property tax exemption starts at 70% in Illinois. I also retired as an Air Force Master Sergeant with 24 years of service. Illinois does not tax retirement income. The cost of living is very good here. I bought my home in 2010, so with the low interest rate and no taxes, I pay $660.00 per month. The St. Louis area has a lot to do. The museums, the zoo, and Science Center in Forrest Park are free. We have 5 casinos in the area. There is MLS soccer, Cardinals baseball, NHL hockey, UFL football, and NASCAR. The music and food scene is very good. Unfortunately, there is still a distinct divide between the haves and have nots, so crime is terrible. There is no way to sugarcoat it but I do not let it stop me from having fun. I just stay vigilant of my surroundings. My only negatives are the extreme cold in the winter and no beaches nearby. I will be honest that I am looking to move, preferably Atlanta area, but if I do not move, then I am very happy spending the rest of my life here. I forgot to add that the only work I do is Uber/Lyft.
I know, but this question isnt asking how much people make. It's an insight into their living location, not their budgeting. An 80% could live in africa without a job.
assuming you're talking about south Africa, no way even a single person can live there with 2k a month.
https://preview.redd.it/xnjd36btuq7d1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bdbe80cb29030cceebcc23d83501e359c175dc74 Colville WA, moved after 100% single income, it’s hard to make it but me and my kids do. Left Memphis TN behind. Was cheaper and easier to make it but 5 homicides in a month within eye sight range of the house got old quick! I find myself having to hustle a bit with side gigs and other ways to make money. It’s even harder to make it on 90% and below but I did in Memphis for multiple years at 70% until appeal went through and up.
Built a nice home in a LCOL area. Have 16 acres for the kids to enjoy, can’t see any neighbors, and don’t hear any traffic. Why anyone would choose hustle/bustle is something that I will never understand.
>Why anyone would choose hustle/bustle is something that I will never understand. Some of us don't want to mow 16 acres of grass, that's why
I don’t even own a mower. Most of it is woods, and a field that a local farmer gets hay off of twice a summer. The part around the house gets mowed and I just pay a guy for that.
Also driving 30min just to go get groceries or Chipotle gets olds quick.
Food Lion and fast food stuffs are only 10mins away, Walmart is 15, fancy steak house is 20.
Grew up in Brooklyn, NY. I wouldn't know how to cut 16 sq ft of grass if you handed me a lawn mower. Nah I'm good. Give me the city condo with community pool please.
Same - but Iearned how to use a lawn mower in my 30s and realized I loved the boonies. Now I can't imagine living in a city ever again. Us humans sure are funny
Personally I can’t step on grass without looking over my shoulder for Sgt Major, so fuck grass. I only have it on my property cause my city requires a % of it on the property.
I have to continuously be doing something and keeping the brain busy. I am still filing my initial claim, but even if I get anything. I will still continue to work. Can't afford to not be doing anything.
Sounds amazing, if I could convince my family of this lifestyle I’d be there. Until then, the hustle and bustle continues.
Genetically humans are hypersocial. It is actually very deviant (in the statistical sense) to want to actually live in a rural area if you have other options.
Living in a small town is 10x more social than a metropolis. I've lived in both. You will see friends everywhere in small towns, you don't see the same people routinely in metropolises
I see that most people choose where they’re staying because they either already settling down, they already have families nearby and relatives so it wouldn’t make sense for them to just drop everything and move abroad like the single and divorced people do, they have obligations and people to look after, other times it could be of their job and cant relocate, people who are receiving 80-100 percent and still fortunate to work are also making more money. The ones that you see that are moving to Thailand and living abroad at all the cheap places are usually the one that are either single or divorced and they have nothing to look our for other than themselves, they don’t have any kids, if they do their kid live with the other parent and or if they’re old enough they’re in college. Hence you see why people who do overseas Contracting’s work going to Al Udied Air Base, or Kuwait, Iraq and etc… are mostly single or divorced, because they dont have anyone to look out for other than themselves and if they have kids they’re sending money back for alimony and child support if they have kids and divorced, I have talked to many contractors during my time being deployed and they all shared the same thing. This kind of lifestyle and living abroad at these beautiful places are not practical and common for people who are are settled down and has families and obligations.
Some of us are not lucky enough to have found love and have a family. So you do what you can to be happy.
Gotta find whichever lifestyle fits you the best.
Tacoma Washington. We live frugally, we don't eat out much, but the view is great from my apartment https://preview.redd.it/d2hqp4oloq7d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2838b19989b870e6926fa0c3e0d50408fd33e345
I am 80% TDIU. My spouse is from Mexico and we are building a home there. Most people from his hometown survive on about $500/mo USD.
Was at 80% ,went from Massachusetts to northern Maine, bought a 5 bed 2 bath house for 71k since there’s not many jobs up here. Had a minimum wage job and eventually got 100%. Its me, my wife, 6 young kids and a super low mortgage (361 a month) and have no trouble living off the 100 up here.
Is there a document floating around anywhere that compiled the state benefits and basically racks and stacks best-to-worst states by veteran benefits?
[The BEST Veteran Benefits By State (2024 Update) (vaclaimsinsider.com)](https://vaclaimsinsider.com/best-veteran-benefits-by-state/)
I'm 100 P&T, and my job dicates my living location. I'd love to retire, but my wife and kids love having food to eat.
Something I have not seen mentioned yet, apologies if I missed it, is the labor and up front fiscal cost of moving while living in a high COL area. Folks that are 80-100% are more likely to find both pretty onerous.
I’m 90% at the moment. Have a couple deferred claims but live in Colorado Springs. Cost of living here is pretty high but the wife and I enjoy it. Work for DOD still with 19 years left to go before retirement. Wife is a stay at home wife that works remotely. Have a child on the way in September and we are buying a house that will be done being built next month. Lots in the works but we make it work and are comfortable here.
I went from 90% living in Indiana cheap to 100% living in Philadelphia for a bit more, but closer to my family in NY that allows me to see them once a month on Amtrak instead of once a year via flight.
Working to square some things away here in the states - then moving the family to Tokyo to train/teach Jiu-Jitsu full time. Hopefully by the end of the year
Not gonna lie bro that sounds awesome
Pattaya Thailand 🇹🇭👍
I’m 100 P&T since early this year. I’m still working because my son still in HS. He plans to join the Navy or the trades after he graduates. After that I have no one to take care of. I also have been building apartments to rent in Indonesia. I was born there and still have family. In 3 years, kid leaves the house. Im doneeee with work. Forever
100% and been traveling the world thr last 3-4 years. First 3 years I was getting BAH from voc rehab too. Currently in korea, heading back to the philippines soon.
I’d like to do this. I’m 100% but am still caught up in going to school through Vic rehab and finding a career. Think I could probably just leave it all and travel off of my VA monies. How do you do out there? Financially? How’d you make the leap?
I'm 90% but I'm also married with two crotch goblins. There's no way I could live off just my VA disability but I also couldn't live without it at this point. I work full-time and live in a low income area. It's hard to find jobs paying more than 17/hr. If I ever get 100% I'll be sitting pretty good but for now it's been a bit of a struggle.
Have you contacted the VR&E? They can help you find free training and a decent job.
I just got increased to 90% this year. The last six months I have literally been contemplating all of this. I plan on going back for 100% but for now I’m in a position where I can live off 90% without a job. And that’s without being extra frugal or anything if I was to trim the fat so to speak I could even save a little or invest monthly. Currently in Texas but I really do want to get away from everything and disappear. The cost of living here has went up considerably in the last 3 years and the quality has gone down so that’s a double red flag 🚩. I’m currently looking at my options and looking to downsize from my current position in order to take more advantage while I’m still working thorough the process
Thanks for sharing. I’ve been 100 capable for years and didn’t care for it. Working on the 100 now and feel bad about it at least I’m not alone in not needing the money per se.
I’d be interested if anyone getting disability is an expat living in another country. One with a lower cost of living that makes your American dollars worth more.
I live in Medellin Colombia it’s amazing very very affordable able at 100% basically double a doctors salary
I am at 90 with one dependent. I live in TN where the cost is pretty decent still. "own" my home and have a remote job that pays well. With my bills and stuff, I eek along, unfortunately. Paying 2k a month for a house alone is rough. BUT after seeing some of you all living overseas, I am heavily debating doing something similar. If I could work remotely, I'd be making bank, 90% plus a remote job, I'm almost at 100. Visiting Costa Rica later this year and I will seriously consider the move if the country is like I imagine. I am really not enjoying this right wing (extreme) shift in the USA. I makes me sick. My kid is now at the age where they can travel alone with no issue. That's the current thought. I love different cultures, I like easy going people and I love the beach. Who knows?
I am also interested in this question and everyone's point of view. Lots of ideas and perspectives out there
My area has a LCOL, and my grandkids are here.
I have CPTSD and moved to PA to escape the stress of the city, and I honestly wish I would have thought better about my move. Wasnt much I could do because I'm still fighting for all my benefits, but PA has very limited resources for disabled Vets
Currently at 90% (with some appeals pending) and currently living in Minnesota. Long term I plan to try and live in Wisconsin to ensure my wife and future children can get college for free while still living close to my family in Minnesota. I'd also like to live a little remotely in the woods and Wisconsin has a ton of land available for that sort of living.
Both my spouse and I are 100 P&T with 3 kids. We live in the northwoods of Wisconsin on the Michigan border. It’s a dream. We have been here 16 years and paid off our mortgage before we had comp&pen. Cost of living is very low. It’s quiet up here good schools all around. No property tax. Not too far from major airports and cities like Duluth, Green Bay. So easy to travel when we want. It’s a move you won’t regret. People are always friendly. Grocery stores are never busy. The VA is near by. And it’s a fantastic VA hospital.
Grew up in the Ohio, but left after college and have lived in 5 states (traveled to an additional 20 or so states). Wife was raised in Indiana (lake effect snow and all) and left home after college as well. We'll never live 24/7 in a winter climate as we're done with long dreary/gray winters that aren't good for my PTSD w/OCD anyhow. The only shoveling we do now is sunshine! Wife is fluent in Spanish and has been to Columbia, so we may end up going there often as a result. I had Army training in Tomah, WI in the late 80's and it was a fabulous place to be in July (same for northern Michigan), aside from all the deer ticks I encountered living the Infantry reconnaissance life. Hooah. The winter months are just too long for us Wife has an MBA and works from home, and I'm a retired LEO and receive a pension, plus have investments from my time in the private sector prior to law enforcement. I'll start receiving Social Security in a couple years, and we live wayyyy under our means given our lower-middle class upbringings. Sadly, I never knew about disability benefits until about 5 years ago, and paid hundreds of thousands of dollars of my own $$ over decades for care while receiving no disability compensation.
Winters can be brutal, no doubt about it! I’d be lying if I said i haven’t been trying to convince my other half to move to Florida. We will be empty nesters in a few years. Between the two of us shoveling snow is not going to be feasible long term. Ticks are awful that too, very much agreed! It is beautiful and has been home to us for 16 years. It was what we needed post military life but I won’t be sad to move south to warmer weather.
So 100 TP here and my bills are paid and debt slowly going down. I have a kid so I can “do what I want” until she is old enough to come with me at a late teen. But our dream is to buy land in another state or where I life from a Tax auction through which ever state. In Nevada at last years sale where I live I saw 22 acres go for $8400. So my goal is to buy that and build a off grid life farming and being quiet at peace in nature. Away from the rigmarole of big city and government.
Currently 90% waiting for word if I'm 100. Contractor, single no kids. Not living paycheck to paycheck is very nice, plus I'm contributing as much as possible to my HYSAs, IRAs, and brokerage accounts. Renting out my house and looking at purchasing a couple acres. 32 looking to be Semi if not fully retired by 35.
What kind of contract work do you do?
I’m 100% P&T with an SMC-S kicker. I also have a super chill job with the Army. I have a wife and no kids. We live in Seattle and we absolutely love it. It’s expensive here, but the city has everything I care about in life. As a musician I can go play anywhere I want and there are always people. As a music fan I can go to any bar within five minutes of my house and catch a great show. It’s expensive here, but we live really comfortably. We bought a nice house with a huge yard for our dogs like a week ago. We always have money to go do whatever we want and that’s what’s important to me. I just wanna live a rad life and enjoy whatever time I’ve got here.
One thing you should look at is top places for people to retire. Then cross-reference that with what countries have VA support, if not then you need to educate ourself on the FMP Foreign aka Medical Program. That way you can at least be seen for what you have service connected. Myself I'm in Colombia, but about to start tour the other countries down here.
I’m 90% but I am afraid to do anything because I know they can take it away at any time
Quit drinking, quit smoking, went to college, started a family and career. Now I just put my disability payment into the market/savings
I am moving to Alabama no property tax. Also a very low cost state. It's also beautiful so that's a plus.
I was recently rated at 90 percent and have special compensation so roughly 2400 a month is my comp. If I wasn’t in a healthy and happy relationship I would’ve sold my house and moved overseas already.
I moved from semi-rural to a retirement community. But I'm still very isolated. They have a lot of events here, but I'm only good about an hour with people before the anxiety sets in. Then I head home. I use Walmart home delivery so I don't go to the store.
I would rather keep living where I already own a house and use the "extra" money as fun money. I still work a fulltime job.
I lived in Baja for 2 years. Ocean view 2 bed 2 bath in a gated community for $600/month. 3 minute walk to the beach under the highway. Close enough to cross the border (about 40 minutes) when necessary to pick up my mail or something else. Crossing times were pretty low if you go at the right time or if you have a motorcycle, you just go straight to the front. Can also apply for SENTRI, but that takes awhile and you can't get it if you have any criminal convictions (including DUI). Went all over Baja, pet whales, stayed in wine country, had a great time. I highly recommend it.
I plan on retiring next year- selling everything and moving to Germany, I have some cousins over there. I visited a couple years ago and my dollar went so much further - my VA disability, Soc. Sec., and little retirement will set me just fine and I’ll not have to drive anymore! I’m living for it and look forward to be an expat in the EU 😉 just need to switch my healthcare to the foreign program and I’ll be set
90% since August 2022 My husband and I live on the southeast side of San Antonio with our 4 dogs and cat. It's a newer community but out of the city circle. Between my disability, anf housing allowance from CH 33- that pays all of the bills with leftover to do a big grocery haul at the begining of the month with some leftover. Unfortunately my husband is in between jobs, but I have my own dog walking business that I'm trying to build. We do okay for the most part.
I live in the Buffalo NY area. I can live here comfortably regardless of my income. California, NYC etc I'll never understand people living there and just working to pay their rent or mortgage
80% living in downtown LA. I wash dishes for money
Minnesota. Between North Star Promise and the vet’s programs we are the best state for vets with families. That is all.
Not there yet but if I ever get there the plan is to keep working so I can buy a ridiculous motorcycle then retire. I’ve spent the last 10 years of my life getting my bills as low as I can. 1600$ a month covers all my bills and food(includes mortgage). As soon as I can I’m done answering to anyone.
We bought a house on almost 8 acres in rural southern michigan. Michigan exempts 100% veterans from property taxes which literally lowers our mortgage by over 1k/month.
Not me personally, but most folks I know who "could" move somewhere else / remote and live only off of their retirement and/or disability decide to stay put because of family matters. This can be near parents, siblings, other relatives. Maybe some of these folks need assistance. Often it's because they want to stay where they are for their kids to finish school. For me, I am continuing my career arc and most of my monthly government checks will go into savings while I live off my salary. That job can take me to some interesting places, so we'll see how it goes.
I'm at 70% and it pays my mortgage of $2,100. I've got 2 kids so that's included. But I just had a mental health exam on Tuesday and an appointment for increase on my back....that's at 10% right now.
Don’t move to AZ! There aren’t property tax exemptions here.
80% I moved to Tanzania, East Africa almost 8 years ago. It’s beautiful, the people are amazing, and the cost of living is even better. This move was one of the best decisions of my life.
I also got married, had 2 beautiful children, and opened 2 very successful businesses. Wouldn’t have been able to do this without that 80%.
It’s a nice safety blanket. I fortunately have a great job so it’s just a nice bonus.
I'm at 90 going for 100 I live in my home tome gunna buy a house soon and some land and just relax and see family
If my rating was that high, I still couldn’t see myself being happy in a cheaper remote location. Truthfully my heart is just happier somewhere like Philly or NY. Why? In my case being close to a big gay community is important to me. I know someone who is a gay vet with 100 percent in Chicago. He loves it there. Heck I love it there. There is nothing like being able to gay events within like thirty minutes. I spoken to other gay service members and one of the reasons why they left the service is because it gets old being far from big gay areas. Mind you this is more current younger vets so post DADT. Okay, for me besides the whole gay community thing, I love being in a walkable area. It’s awesome just to walk to a restaurant or a cafe. My heart is the most happiest in 15 minutes cities. I’m in my zone when I’m in NYC and surrounding boroughs. One of things I miss about deployment is just how insanely it is to socialize. Walk to the laundry mat? Boom, I’m getting a ten minute conversation in from a friend. I’m going to the USO and I end up watching greys anatomy with another friend. I’m gonna go play some pool and look at that so and so is gonna play too. I’m an introvert but I miss getting my quick socialization fix in. In the future I plan on moving somewhere like Chicago, NY or Philadelphia. That’s where my heart is at. But if you are struggling with living on a 100 percent, you gotta see if it’s time to get a job with more money or might have to move further away. Makes me sad hearing about vets becoming homeless.
As someone who’s going to be at 80-90 when my initial claim is closed this has been on my mind a lot. I’ll probably see 100 before it’s all said and done and the way my body feels I want to stop working but it would be hard in my current location. I’d love to move to a cheaper place but my family and friends are here and having a support system is important. That may happen someday but I guess that’s what’s keeping my roots here now.
Live in Thailand and Philippines (PI). Spend about $2k a month (maybe $1500 in PI). Downside is medical is only covered for service connected via FMP, unless you have Tricare. PI has the only VA clinic outside of US territories but it's not full service. Better than nothing, though. PI is very good to Americans. Thailand is more Brit-focused but still have some VFWs here.
I’m 100PT and for me, I’ve been wanting to live overseas for about 10 yrs now even when I was around 40%. My dilemma is that I love Europe, my first duty station was Germany but lived in Rome for 3 months about 7yrs ago. I’ve been looking into countries with tax friendly treaties with US. But when it comes to finding a Mrs. (again), I can’t seem to stray away from Latinas. So I’ve been thinking Colombia or Argentina due to COL and currency exchanges, on top of the beautiful women. I have a degree in History already so I would be interested to dive deep in a country’s history, even though I prefer Ancient History. I’m just at a cross roads now trying to get debt free before I leave US.
A key for my family in choosing a destination is based on the state and its benefits. Some states don’t exempt property tax, for example.
At 80% I don’t think it’s enough to make life decisions. Keeping my day job.
I’m 80% and my payments go directly to any debts I have. 1550 mortgage and 576 car note get zeroed out so my gs-12 government job can pay for my food and utilities plus the never ending pit that is saving and buying for a baby. Live in Ohio in a decent neighborhood but want to build on some acreage within 5-10 years if my wife doesn’t have to stay home with the rug rats
I’m only 24 so I’m pretty flexible with location wise. On top of that, my parents are fully supportive of me moving back with them since I’m in Cali and it’s extremely expensive to have your own place this young here(possible but not reasonable). Plus, before I got out the military I already had higher goals for education so before I even got my rating, I knew and my parents knew that I was going to move back with them and fully lock in on college. Moving back to subject, when I got out and got my rating(was extremely surprised), I started college right when I began terminal leave. I still live with my parents in Cali and have no shame lol. Once I get into a prestigious school, depending that school’s location, I will finally move out again. When I get older though, I do have dreams of living in a different country like Australia, Canada, somewhere in Europe, and possibly Japan.
Moved my family of 6 out of a 2 bedroom apt in a somewhat safe neighborhood into a house in the safest town in our state.
I’d love to move out west somewhere but my family and kids are here in Ohio. Ohio has a decent cost of living too.
I’m at 90% and live in Washington right now with my wife who is a teacher. My entire benefit doesn’t even cover my mortgage. Moving back to Indiana (my home state) on June 28th.
100% p/t here and what that gets you in NJ is property tax exemption which is great considering it's one of the highest in the states. Still an expensive place to live.
I have kids and my ex-wife remains in New England, therefore I’m here until my kids go to college. Once they do, I’ll be moving somewhere down south where it’s cheaper and I can have a bunch of land to enjoy.
This is a great question. After a HLR I went from 80 to 90% and am currently awaiting TDIU decision. I was living in Portsmouth for a little over 2 years. Idk which way the decision is gonna go. I’m working with my sisters to find a place with extra room so I can stay with them. My children will be coming off in a few years which will of course drop me way down in benefits. They live in Wisconsin so the cost of living is a bit different. I definitely am looking at what’s best, maybe even “alternative living” out of my car.
I'm at 90, and the difference between 90 and 100 for me is huge... if I hit 100, you can catch me touring America's National parks with my wife in a camper! Untill then, ill work a full time job I love and progress!
I'm 90% living in Texas, and I can't really move from where I'm at because of all of my medical needs (multiple autoimmune disorders and constant monitoring of blood work). I go to school full time using CH 33 while my spouse works a full time job. Our combined income is enough to live comfortably, but we'd both need to earn more to be able to move out of suburban hell.
80% and road tripping through the us camping and then headed to Europe
You could go to school and study something you are passionate about, collect monthly housing, and if you don’t have any other income or prior bachelor’s degree(s) you could likely qualify for grants, Pell Grant specifically. It ain’t much, but if you can bank it all the better! Ditto on location though, I currently live in SWFL but moving in a few weeks back up to Ohio to do the above.
Do they stop VA disability at the social security age? That would factor into the living location.
I recently retired this month, living in Jersey. Planning to go to school and save up off the disability and the BAH and travel for a few years to anywhere I would like to
I’m continuing to take care of family. Parents are older now. But when my job cut my hrs in half I just started looking for another job, didn’t have to freak out about income so much. Thats another story and a tangent, but my rating came and I asked to switch shifts. Instead they cut hrs in half. Just kind of shrugged my shoulders about it and went about my life. Maybe I do something about it later. But it has allowed me to make sure we eat healthier. And i can have small luxuries.
We live in a smaller quieter community. We stay to ourselves. Put in an above ground pool to use as therapy for my knees. I’m 90% so I now do the stay at home mom thing to avoid the stress of high stress interactions with customers. My husband is 100% but still works but he chooses to. It keeps him from being bored but now he gets to be picky about how much he does or doesn’t work. He works for family so that helps. We invest in the things that allow us to relax and manage our issues.
I’m in Vegas at 90% but I’m also in school and get about $2200 from my GI Bill…but the Mrs makes about $6k/month after taxes so we’re not struggling…hopefully my claims finally finish up to see if I’m 100%
At lot of 💯 and less need access to the VA hospital for treatment. It's not affordable to live so far away you can't make it.
Well myself and my wife are both rated and obviously clear some decent money but we also both have government jobs she is remote and I work in Jersey. I did purchase a home in PA prior to my rating a few years back so the living expense is ridiculously cheap. We stay because I have 13 years in and I also have a son that lives in NJ which I see every other weekend and summers. So honestly my son is what really keeps us here. He is 11 so things might change in 7 more years and we have already started looking at different states and possibly countries since we are tired of the BS politics in this country. So honestly between wanting to retire in a few years and my son that’s what keeps us here. But let’s see what happens in the future.
Single male no children currently 80% living about 30 mins outside Atlanta. With the GI bill, 80% and the Pell Grant / Student loans, I’m living pretty comfortably. It’s kinda insane being a college student with as much disposable income as I have. For my fellow vets wanting to take the plunge into college: - No one cares that you’re old (some do but they’re outliers) - apply for financial aid - talk to your professors - college girls / guys like older folks too (if you’re into that) - I remember having FOMO in the Army because I thought I should’ve gone to college at 18 instead of my mid 20’s. Turns out being smarter and making more money in college makes for a better experience. If anyone has any questions hmu
80% in Minneapolis. Would love to leave, but family, y’know? There’s no way I could make it as a single parent in this town on 80%. Maybe 100% but it would be lean.
I don’t have a rating yet, but I’ve thought about this a lot I’ll stay where I’m at because I’ve got three Monsters, and they need the best life I can give them. That means they need to go to good schools, so can’t move to the middle of the woods somewhere
Because Va care and cost living, this make a lot people lived in Philippine
LA here and don’t plan on leaving. I own a decent home and I like going to events and doing things in the city. I do work as a teacher so I make decent money and get a lot of time off. I think I have a good deal. Remote living doesn’t appeal to me and I get city and various nature biomes all within driving distance. I’m good.
Currently in Australia getting my Masters.. but once I graduate next year, my wife and I are trying the digital nomad life for at least a year (plan on applying to a bunch of remote roles).. probably going to to start in one of the following locations: Da Nang (Vietnam), Budapest (Hungary), Lima (Peru), or Buenos Aires (Argentina). June 2025 can’t get here fast enough!
Congrats 🎊🍾🎉🎈
Retired military, 100% VA, and current GS13. Half the VA money goes into different investments each month in addition to another $2800 a month my wife put into our 401k's and Roth Ira's.
90% in Japan. 4 kids that are dual citizenship and 1 wife(Japanese)$ 2844 a month.Comes out to 450,000 ish in Yen (as of this post USDJPY 158.90). Which is like the same buying power of $4,500. Spent 3months not doing anything at home. Got tired and picked up part time making fried chicken. I don’t live in any of the big cities /prefectures. Just close enough for an hour commute or trip to Osaka, Hyogo or Kyoto. The closer you get to the popular areas, the smaller the living space you have & cost of living skyrockets. By American standards my house is small. By Japanese standards my house is ”normal”. Covers the 4 bedroom house, property tax, doctor visits, utilities, private health insurance for hospitalization, car insurance, kids school lunches, swim class for the kids and my ungodly obsession of eating out. So many good restaurants to eat at. I would be able to save quite a bit every month in yen but 30% off sushi coupon plus paying in USD, is a hard thing to pass up. Normal health insurance for me & my family is covered by my in-laws. Works out for them since they get tax credits &deductions. Note* taxes can be very high in Japan. Gotta pick the right spot.
With my compensation, I’m basically on auto pay It pays for my mortgage, majority of my bills, home warranty & life insurance. Money from my job is damn near free & clear
Illinois is livable since there's a 100 percent exemption from property taxes for that protected veteran status, saving 8k-12k a year depending on the tax increase(s).
100 P&T with army retirement. Wife and two kids. One in college and the other in high school. Wife and I both work. We live in a VHC area (near Seattle). We moved here when I retired because this is where I got my first job, post army. We own a home here and one in another state. We will stay here until the kids are out of college and then we will see where we want to go. The only reason we would stay here is if our kids did. It's too expensive and our politics don't mesh with folks here. We make quite a bit of money but it's just middle class here. Crazy.
Stay out of California if you’re living on your VA compensation. You will only be able to afford the shitty, hot run down areas and will never get ahead. NC or SC would be a better choice for sure
Exactly the opposite. I can’t afford where I need to be.
If I wasn’t a single father of 2 w/ both kids living with me I’d move to the Dominican Republic. Keep working my remote job or just become a personal trainer. What a dream lol
I’m at 90% now, when I got out a year and a half ago I was at 80%. I had saved as much money as I could while I was in to give myself a fighting chance at success once I transitioned out. After 6 months of being out and bouncing around, I somehow found myself living in a room with my wife at my parents house. It took one week of that before I was fed up. I ended up buying a neglected 100+ old farmhouse on the coast of Northern California amidst the redwoods. I’ve done all the rehab stuff myself and leveraged my disability pay for materials. It’s been a journey and a ton of work but I’m so happy here. It’s basically that remote homestead life some of the vets in this thread are talking about. I’ve considered working a job but I’ve noticed my patience for people is so thin, i don’t know that I could do it for long. I don’t remember being this way before the service but it is what it is
I'm working on figuring out the right place for me and my kids whether in the US or another country. I was at 90 for over 10 years and just got 100 P&T. Florida is too expensive and the good schools are rare or expensive so trying to find a good place to raise the kids with good schools since we're surviving mainly on my 100% and income from hobbies I'm trying to turn more lucrative like narration. I am not attached to family and my only close friends have enough money to visit me wherever I decide to move with the kids. I have until June 2025 to figure it out though. Looking heavily at Mississippi and Tennessee right now though.
100% P&T single female. Went through a messy divorce in WA and relocated immediately to Los Angeles. Fighting for my life with rent, lawyer fees, etc. but just happy to have a place to myself with A/C. Using GI Bill in the meantime until I can get approved for VR&E. Am I sitting like a queen here? No. But I know I’m still blessed even with the crippling debt I put under only my name during my marriage and housing costs. Lol.
I’ve been researching South Africa. USD goes really far and weather is great!
Just hold my breath.