The Military Evaluation Board process can feel overwhelming. Here is a plain-language breakdown of every stage — from MEB referral to final PEB determination — so you know exactly what to expect.
Understanding the MEB/PEB Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you have been told that a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) has been initiated on your case, you are probably feeling a mix of confusion, anxiety, and uncertainty about what comes next. That is completely understandable. The military disability evaluation system is complex, bureaucratic, and often poorly explained to the service members who are going through it.
This guide is designed to change that. Here is a plain-language, step-by-step breakdown of the entire MEB/PEB process — so you know exactly what to expect and how to protect your interests at every stage.
What Triggers an MEB?
An MEB is initiated when a military physician determines that a service member has a medical condition that may prevent them from performing their military duties. This can happen after a deployment injury, a diagnosis of a chronic condition, or a determination that a service member cannot meet the physical standards required for their branch of service.
The MEB is not a punishment. It is an administrative process designed to determine whether you can continue to serve — and if not, to ensure you receive the benefits you have earned.
Stage 1: The MEB Narrative Summary (NARSUM)
The most important document in the entire MEB/PEB process is the MEB Narrative Summary, or NARSUM. This is a comprehensive medical report prepared by your treating physician that describes your condition, its severity, and its impact on your ability to perform your military duties.
Why it matters: The NARSUM is the foundation of your entire case. If it understates the severity of your condition — or fails to include all of your ratable conditions — it can result in a lower disability rating and fewer benefits.
What you should do: Review your NARSUM carefully. If it does not accurately reflect your condition, you have the right to rebut it. This is one of the most important steps in the process, and it is where having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference.
Stage 2: MEB Determination
After the NARSUM is completed, the MEB reviews your medical records and determines whether your condition meets the standards for continued military service. There are two possible outcomes:
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Meets Retention Standards (MRS): The MEB finds that your condition does not prevent you from performing your duties. Your case is returned to your unit, though you may still be subject to a Medical Duty Review Board.
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Does Not Meet Retention Standards (DNMRS): The MEB finds that your condition prevents you from performing your duties. Your case is referred to a Physical Evaluation Board (PEB).
Stage 3: The Informal PEB (IPEB)
The Informal PEB is a paper review — the board reviews your records without you being present and issues a written determination. The IPEB will either find you:
- Fit for Duty: You are returned to your unit.
- Unfit for Duty: The board assigns a disability rating and recommends either disability retirement (30% or higher combined rating, or 20+ years of service) or disability severance pay (less than 30% combined rating).
Your rights: If you disagree with the IPEB findings, you have the right to demand a Formal PEB. You also have the right to concur with the findings and accept the determination. Do not make this decision without consulting an attorney.
Stage 4: The Formal PEB (FPEB)
The Formal PEB is an in-person hearing where you — and your attorney — can appear before the board, present evidence, call witnesses, and make arguments on your behalf. This is your most important opportunity to challenge an unfavorable rating.
What happens at a Formal PEB:
- You and your attorney present your case
- The board may ask questions
- You can submit additional medical evidence
- The board issues a written determination
Why representation matters: The Formal PEB is an adversarial proceeding. The government has experienced personnel presenting its case. You deserve experienced representation on your side.
Stage 5: The Final Determination
After the Formal PEB (or if you concur with the IPEB), the findings are reviewed and approved by the appropriate authority. You will receive a formal notification of your disability rating and the type of separation — disability retirement or disability severance pay.
Stage 6: Appeals
If you disagree with the final determination, you have the right to appeal. The appeals process varies by branch of service but generally involves the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) or the Physical Disability Board of Review (PDBR).
The Bottom Line
The MEB/PEB process has enormous financial consequences for you and your family. The difference between a 20% rating and a 30% rating is the difference between a one-time severance payment and a lifetime of monthly retirement pay, healthcare coverage, and other benefits.
For a deeper look at each stage, see our posts on MEB rebuttals, what happens at a Formal PEB hearing, and how disability ratings are determined. You can also visit our Physical Evaluation Boards overview for a branch-neutral summary of the process.
Do not navigate this process alone. Contact John B. Gately today for a free consultation to discuss your case and understand your options.
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Written by
John B. Gately, Attorney & Counselor at Law
Content creator and writer sharing insights and stories.
