The Trump administration's 2017 ban on transgender military service led to the discharge of an unknown number of qualified personnel. While the Biden administration reversed the policy in 2021, many affected service members continue facing bureaucratic delays in receiving separation benefits. Congressional representatives report that some have waited over six months for payments, compared to the typical 30-60 day processing time for standard military separations.
Reporting from The Washington Post highlighted cases like Chloe Shapiro, a decade-long service member who lived in her car while awaiting $66,000 in owed pay. Other cases include a National Guardsman with young twins awaiting $130,000 and an Air Force major owed $340,000. These delays create disproportionate financial instability for transgender veterans during their transition to civilian life.
Transgender servicemembers should receive the separation pay they are owed in a timely fashion.
Why This Matters
Timely separation pay is crucial for all transitioning service members, but particularly for marginalized groups facing additional employment and housing discrimination. Transgender veterans already experience homelessness at higher rates than their cisgender peers, with delayed benefits exacerbating this vulnerability. The financial instability caused by payment delays can disrupt medical transitions, housing security, and family stability.
Beyond the immediate financial impact, these delays represent continued administrative discrimination against transgender service members. While the military ban has been rescinded, its lingering effects demonstrate how policy changes often fail to address the bureaucratic realities facing affected individuals. The House Equality Caucus emphasizes that timely payment is a basic dignity owed to all who serve, regardless of gender identity.
What You Can Do
Support organizations like SPARTA or the Modern Military Association of America that advocate for LGBTQ+ service members. These groups provide direct assistance to affected individuals and lobby for policy changes. You can also contact your congressional representatives to express support for equitable benefits processing and oversight of military separation practices.
If you're a transgender veteran experiencing payment delays, document all communication with the VA and Department of Defense. Reach out to your local Veterans Service Organization or congressional office for assistance navigating claims. Remember that you're entitled to the same benefits as any other honorably discharged service member, and persistence in pursuing what you've earned is both reasonable and necessary.
