Air Force PEB Representation

Air Force Physical Evaluation Board Attorney

The Air Force PEB determines your disability rating and your financial future. Attorney Jack Gately has represented Airmen and Space Force Guardians through the IDES and legacy PEB process for over 25 years.

About the PEB Process

How the Air Force PEB Process Works

When an Airman or Guardian is found to have a condition that may prevent them from meeting Air Force or Space Force retention standards, the case is referred to the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB). The MEB documents the unfitting conditions and refers the case to the Physical Evaluation Board, which makes the final determination on fitness for duty and disability rating.

The Air Force PEB is conducted at the Physical Evaluation Board located at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. A combined disability rating of 30% or more — or 20 years of qualifying service — entitles you to disability retirement with lifetime monthly pay, TRICARE, and full military benefits. Below 30%, you receive only a one-time severance payment. Getting the rating right the first time is critical.

Air Force-Specific PEB Issues Attorney Gately Handles

MEB Narrative Summary Review

The NARSUM is the foundation of your case. If it understates your condition, omits ratable diagnoses, or misapplies the VASRD, your rating will be too low. We review every NARSUM and prepare rebuttals with supporting medical evidence.

IDES vs. Legacy System Cases

Most active-duty Air Force and Space Force members go through IDES, but some cases still proceed under the legacy system. Attorney Gately knows both processes and ensures your case is handled correctly.

Mental Health Condition Ratings

PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are frequently underrated by the PEB. We have extensive experience challenging inadequate mental health ratings and ensuring the VASRD is applied correctly.

Reserve and Guard Component Cases

Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard members face unique challenges in the PEB process, including line-of-duty determinations and qualifying service questions. We handle these cases with the same rigor as active-duty cases.

Formal PEB Hearing Representation

At the Formal PEB, you have the right to appear with counsel, present evidence, and make legal arguments. We prepare your case thoroughly and advocate aggressively on your behalf before the board.

What to Expect: Air Force PEB Timeline

MEB Referral

Your treating physician refers your case to the MEB when your condition may prevent you from meeting Air Force retention standards. The MEB documents your conditions in the NARSUM.

VA Examination & Rating

In IDES cases, the VA conducts a C&P exam and proposes a disability rating for each unfitting condition. This rating drives your eventual PEB determination.

Informal PEB

The PEB reviews your MEB packet and VA rating and issues a written determination. You may accept, rebut, or demand a Formal PEB — never make this decision without legal counsel.

Formal PEB (if requested)

You appear before the board with your attorney. We present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue for the rating and disposition you deserve.

Final Disposition & Appeals

The PEB issues a final determination. If unfavorable, appeal options include the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR) and the Physical Disability Board of Review (PDBR).

Air Force PEB Resources

In-depth articles on every stage of the Air Force disability evaluation process.

Airman or Guardian Facing a PEB? Call Before You Sign Anything.

The decisions you make in the next few days — whether to accept the IPEB findings, demand a Formal PEB, or rebut the NARSUM — can affect your benefits for the rest of your life. Call for a free consultation first.

757-481-0772 Request a Free Consultation