Military retirees to receive cost of living increase

Nov. 7 (UPI) -- The Defense Department on Wednesday announced a cost of living adjustment for military retirees and survivors beginning in 2019.

The 2.8 percent increase was scheduled to go into effect Jan. 1. It will be applicable to retirees, and most survivors of service members who died on active or inactive duty or who participate in the Survivor Benefit Plan.

The Pentagon said the 2.8 percent increase also will apply to the Special Survivor Indemnity Allowance, which will reach a maximum of $318 in January.

Cost of living adjustments for military retirees are calculated based on the Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners and clerical workers.