Online training designed to educate airmen about the new Blended Retirement System, the Defense Department system with changes on the current military retirement system, is now available via Joint Knowledge Online course number P-US1330. The course is also available to those without a Common Access Card - to include family members - via an alternate website.

The BRS was enacted into law in the Fiscal Year 2016 National Defense Authorization Act, and will go into effect Jan. 1, 2018. All currently serving members are grandfathered into the current military retirement system. However, those with fewer than 12 years of service as of Dec. 31, 2017, or Air Force Reserve component members with fewer than 4,320 retirement points, may choose to "opt in" to the BRS during the designated opt-in period from Jan. 1, 2018 through Dec. 31, 2018.

"The BRS is a major change for our airmen," said Brig. Gen. Brian Kelly, the Military Force Management Policy director. "Although the majority of airmen serving today will not fall under BRS, it is important for all airmen, either as leaders today or as leaders tomorrow, to understand the changes that will impact airmen in the future."

The BRS Leader Training is a 30-minute course designed to provide basic familiarity with the key components of the upcoming retirement system and the timeline for implementation. It is designed primarily for Air Force leaders at all levels, but is also open to all airmen and others who wish to learn more about BRS.

"Education is key in providing airmen the information they need in order to make informed decisions about the BRS," Kelly said. The Defense Department is on track to provide three additional courses with more detailed information within the next 18 months.

An "opt-in" course is targeted at those eligible to opt into the new system. To learn more about the Blended Retirement System, visit militarypay.defense.gov.