How do I prepare for the military separation?

Read This: Must-Dos for Separating

1. DO get your plans in place.
2. DO start your Transition Assistance Program early.
3. DO schedule a final medical and dental exam.
4. DO schedule the move of your household goods.
5. DO talk to your spouse about participating in the Military Spouse Transition Program.

Can you voluntarily separate from the military?

While “quitting” isn’t an option, there are some ways you can be discharged from active duty, but they are rarely voluntary. It’s especially important to note that early separation or discharge from the military is different from military retirement and even disability or medical separations.

What is a hardship in the military?

Generally, this discharge requires severe medical, psychological or financial problems in the member’s immediate family. Medical and psychological problems are termed dependency, while financial problems are described as hardship, though many military personnel use the terms interchangeably.

Do you get per diem when separating?

Members separating or retiring from active duty are entitled to reimbursement of relocation expenses. Travel is paid to the transition point, the location where the out-processing takes place, prior to the ETS/Separation or Retirement date.

Why can’t you leave the military?

The U.S. military depends on their soldiers to be available for a given number of years, without exception. Allowing Army soldiers to quit at any time could lead to desertion in a combat situation and other logistical problems, such as not having enough soldiers to complete essential missions.

When to prepare for separation from the military?

It’s never too early to begin preparations for your separation from active military service. The Department of Defense (DoD) recommends that you start your planning at least 12 months prior to separation, and 24 months prior to retirement, from active duty.

Where can I get a copy of the military Separation Guide?

You can also request a copy by mail by completing and submitting SF 180 (“Request Pertaining to Military Records”) to the NPRC. You can obtain this form through the NPRC website, or request the form by fax by calling the NPRC’s Fax-on-Demand System at (301) 837-0990 from a fax machine, using the handset.

What to do when your spouse leaves the military?

DO talk to your spouse about participating in the Military Spouse Transition Program. This program is designed to guide military spouses through the military to civilian transition. DON’T wait until the last minute.

What kind of health care do you get after separation from the military?

TRICARE is a DoD program that provides in-service and post-service health care to eligible military personnel and their family members. The Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) offers transitional TRICARE coverage to certain separating active duty members and their families members. Health care is available for a limited time.