Preparing for Military Retirement: A Timeline and Checklist

Last updated 5 months ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

Transitioning from military service to civilian life is a significant milestone, marking the culmination of a dedicated career and the beginning of a new chapter. Successful navigation of this complex process hinges on proactive, long-range planning.

While mandatory transition activities officially begin at least a year before separation, the Department of Defense (DoD) and individual service branches strongly recommend starting preparations 18 to 24 months prior to the anticipated retirement date. This extended timeframe allows service members and their families to thoroughly research options, make informed decisions without undue pressure, complete sequential requirements, and establish a solid foundation for post-service life.

This guide provides a timeline-based checklist, integrating official resources and critical considerations to help retiring service members manage the transition process effectively and access the benefits earned through years of service.

The Long View: 24-18 Months Before Retirement

This initial phase focuses on laying the groundwork, understanding the landscape, and initiating mandatory processes well ahead of deadlines. Procrastination can lead to a compressed and stressful transition period, potentially causing missed opportunities or deadlines for critical benefits.

Checklist: 24-18 Months Out

• [ ] Attend installation/unit retirement planning briefings
• [ ] Locate your Retirement Services Officer (RSO) or equivalent transition counselor
• [ ] Schedule and complete mandatory TAP Individualized Initial Counseling (IC)
• [ ] Schedule and complete mandatory TAP Pre-Separation Counseling (Must be done NLT 365 days prior, but start scheduling now)
• [ ] Begin developing your Individual Transition Plan (ITP) with your TAP counselor
• [ ] Start building a transition emergency fund (aim for 3-6 months of living expenses)
• [ ] Estimate potential retirement pay using official calculators (High-3 vs. BRS)
• [ ] Review your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account status and contribution strategy
• [ ] Begin researching potential retirement locations (cost of living, job market, taxes, proximity to VA facilities/bases, state veteran benefits)
• [ ] Review your Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) and Service Treatment Records (STR); request corrections if needed
• [ ] Obtain your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) document (DD Form 2586)
• [ ] Discuss transition plans, goals, and concerns with your family/spouse
• [ ] Identify potential educational/certification goals (research DoD COOL, SkillBridge)
• [ ] Determine your desired retirement date

Detailed Actions and Considerations

Importance of Early Start: The DoD consistently recommends initiating retirement preparations 18-24 months out. This timeframe accounts for the sequential nature of mandatory programs like TAP, allows ample time for research and complex decisions (like location and benefits), facilitates proactive financial planning, and helps avoid the stress of last-minute rushes.

Finding Your Guides: Navigating the transition requires expert guidance. Service members should identify and connect with their designated support personnel early:

• Army personnel: Retirement Services Officer (RSO)
• Marines: Transition Readiness staff
• Air Force members: Military and Family Readiness Centers (M&FRC)
• Navy personnel: TAP staff via Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC)
• Coast Guardsmen: Office of Work-Life staff

These counselors are vital for understanding service-specific requirements, developing the Individual Transition Plan (ITP), and accessing resources.

TAP – The Mandatory First Steps: The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is mandatory for service members with 180+ days of continuous active duty. The process officially begins with Individualized Initial Counseling (IC) and Pre-separation Counseling, both of which must be completed no later than 365 days before separation or retirement. Starting these well within the 24-18 month window is highly recommended.

• Individualized Initial Counseling (IC): This session involves a personal self-assessment and marks the beginning of the Individual Transition Plan (ITP). The ITP serves as a personalized roadmap, documenting individual goals, needs, and planned actions throughout the transition. Its effectiveness relies heavily on the service member’s active participation and honest self-assessment, enabling counselors to provide tailored guidance and recommend appropriate resources or TAP tracks.
• Pre-Separation Counseling: This mandatory briefing provides a comprehensive overview of benefits, entitlements, and resources available to transitioning service members and veterans. Topics typically cover retirement pay, SBP, healthcare, VA benefits, financial planning, and employment assistance. Spouses and caregivers are strongly encouraged to attend this session with the service member.
• Accessing TAP: The primary portal for DoD TAP information and accessing certain documents like the VMET is the DoDTAP website. TAP classes and events can be scheduled via the TAP Events portal. Service-specific TAP resources are also available:
  • Army TAP
  • Navy TAP (linked via MyNavy HR)
  • Air Force TAP (linked via AFPC)
  • Marine Corps Transition Readiness Program (TRP) (linked via USMC MCCS)
  • Coast Guard TAP (linked via DCMS)

Financial Groundwork: Understanding post-retirement finances is critical.

• Estimate Retirement Pay: Begin estimating potential retirement income based on the applicable system: High-3 (for those entering service between Sep 8, 1980 and Dec 31, 2017, who didn’t opt into BRS) or the Blended Retirement System (BRS) (for those entering Jan 1, 2018 or later, or who opted in). Utilize official calculators provided by DoD or services, such as the DoD BRS Comparison Calculator, Military OneSource calculators, or MyArmyBenefits calculators. Remember that retired pay calculations differ significantly from active duty pay, primarily due to the loss of allowances like Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS).
• Build a Transition Fund: Start saving specifically for transition-related expenses and potential income gaps. Aim for a fund covering 3-6 months of projected post-retirement living expenses. This is crucial because there can be a delay between the final active duty paycheck and the first retirement payment from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), as well as processing time for any VA benefits. Moving and setting up a new household also incur significant costs.
• Review TSP: Examine Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account balances, investment allocations, and contribution strategies. Consider future contribution levels and withdrawal options (https://www.tsp.gov).

Initial Benefits Exploration: Start familiarizing yourself with key benefits programs that require decisions later:

• Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP): An annuity for dependents
• Healthcare: TRICARE options for retirees and potential eligibility for VA Health Care
• Education: Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits and transferability rules

Life & Career Visioning: Engage in self-assessment (formally through TAP IC) and discuss post-military goals with family. Will you seek a second career, pursue education, or fully retire? Research potential retirement locations considering factors like cost of living, job market for desired fields, state tax policies on military retirement pay, proximity to VA medical facilities or military bases (for commissary/exchange access), quality of schools, and family support networks.

Know Your Records: Accurate records are foundational for a smooth transition.

• OMPF Review: Request and review your Official Military Personnel File (OMPF). Verify service dates, promotions, awards, training, and duty assignments. Request corrections through appropriate channels if errors are found. This ensures accurate calculation of retirement eligibility and pay.
• VMET & STRs: Obtain your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) document (DD Form 2586). This document translates military experience into civilian terms and is invaluable for resume writing. Access is often available through DoDTAP/milConnect. Also, begin reviewing your Service Treatment Records (STRs) for completeness. Addressing records review early streamlines multiple later tasks, including resume building, credentialing applications (DoD COOL), and assembling documentation for potential VA disability claims.

Gaining Momentum: 12 Months Before Retirement

With the foundation laid, this period involves deeper dives into mandatory programs, critical benefit decisions, and concrete career planning actions.

Checklist: 12 Months Out

• [ ] Attend mandatory TAP Core Curriculum workshops (DoD Transition Day, VA Benefits & Services, DOL Employment Fundamentals)
• [ ] Make a preliminary Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) election decision (understand options, costs, spouse concurrence requirement)
• [ ] Deepen healthcare planning: Compare TRICARE Prime vs. Select costs/networks for potential location(s); verify VA healthcare eligibility
• [ ] Research FEDVIP dental/vision plans and costs if desired
• [ ] Understand SGLI to VGLI conversion process, timeline, and costs; compare with commercial life insurance options
• [ ] Begin drafting your civilian resume; utilize resources like MOC Crosswalk and VMET
• [ ] Actively network (LinkedIn, informational interviews, professional organizations, job fairs)
• [ ] Explore DoD SkillBridge opportunities and application process if interested
• [ ] Explore DoD COOL credentialing opportunities relevant to your goals and funding options
• [ ] Submit official retirement request if not already done (follow service timelines, e.g., Navy 5-9 months prior for orders)
• [ ] Schedule significant medical/dental procedures (e.g., elective surgeries, wisdom teeth removal)
• [ ] Continue building transition fund / paying down debt
• [ ] If applicable, investigate and initiate Post-9/11 GI Bill transfer before leaving active duty

Detailed Actions and Considerations

TAP Core Curriculum Deep Dive: Around the one-year mark, service members typically complete the mandatory core TAP workshops. These workshops provide foundational knowledge but should be viewed as the starting point, not the entirety, of transition preparation, especially concerning career readiness. Many find value in pursuing optional tracks or external programs like SkillBridge or COOL for more in-depth preparation.

• DoD Transition Day: This mandatory session covers managing personal and family transition challenges, understanding cultural differences between military and civilian workplaces, stress management, and communication. It includes the Military Occupational Code (MOC) Crosswalk exercise to translate military skills, training, and experience into civilian terms. Financial Planning for Transition builds on earlier financial literacy, focusing on changes in income (loss of allowances), taxes, healthcare costs, and developing a post-transition budget using online tools.
• VA Benefits and Services: This comprehensive briefing covers the spectrum of VA benefits, including healthcare eligibility and enrollment, disability compensation claims process (including the Benefits Delivery at Discharge program), education and training benefits (Post-9/11 GI Bill, VET TEC), home loan guaranty, life insurance options (VGLI), burial and memorial benefits, and support services like Vet Centers and mental health resources. The session emphasizes how to navigate the VA system and apply for benefits, often including registration for an eBenefits or VA.gov account. Access VA transition resources at https://benefits.va.gov/transition/.
• DOL Employment Fundamentals of Career Transition (EFCT): Provided by the Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS), this workshop introduces essential job search strategies. Topics include evaluating career options, identifying skills, resume basics, networking techniques, interviewing fundamentals, and utilizing resources like American Job Centers and the VETS website.

Critical Benefit Decisions – SBP: The Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) provides an inflation-adjusted lifetime annuity (up to 55% of chosen base amount) to eligible dependents upon the retiree’s death, as military retired pay stops at death.

• Eligibility & Options: Available to retiring members. Coverage can be elected for a spouse, spouse and children, children only, former spouse (often court-ordered), or an individual with an insurable interest.
• Costs: Premiums are deducted pre-tax from retired pay. For spouse coverage, the standard premium is 6.5% of the elected base amount (which can range from $300 up to full retired pay). A two-tiered formula may apply for lower base amounts. Premiums cease after 360 payments and reaching age 70.
• Spouse Concurrence: Electing less than maximum spouse coverage, or declining spouse coverage entirely, requires the spouse’s written, notarized consent at the time of election. This is a critical legal protection for the spouse.
• SBP-DIC Offset: The offset that previously reduced SBP payments for surviving spouses also receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) from the VA was fully eliminated as of January 1, 2023. Eligible surviving spouses now receive both full SBP and full DIC payments.
• Decision Timeline: While the final election is made closer to retirement via DD Form 2656, understanding the options, costs, and long-term implications now is crucial for making an informed decision. This decision has significant, often irreversible, financial consequences for survivors. Official SBP information is available from DFAS and Military OneSource.

Healthcare Planning:

• TRICARE: Retirees and their eligible family members must actively enroll in a TRICARE health plan to maintain coverage post-retirement. The main options are TRICARE Prime (HMO-style, requires Primary Care Manager, referrals needed, lower out-of-pocket costs) and TRICARE Select (PPO-style, greater provider choice, no referrals needed for specialists, higher deductibles and cost-shares).
  • Group A vs. Group B: Costs differ based on the sponsor’s initial entry date into military service (before Jan 1, 2018 is Group A; on or after Jan 1, 2018 is Group B). Group B generally has higher enrollment fees, deductibles, and catastrophic caps.
  • Cost Comparison: Review the specific costs associated with each plan, including annual enrollment fees, deductibles (amount paid before TRICARE cost-sharing begins), catastrophic cap (maximum out-of-pocket per year), and copayments/cost-shares for various services (primary care, specialty care, urgent care, ER, inpatient stays). Use the TRICARE Compare Cost Tool.
  • Enrollment: Enrollment is managed through the TRICARE regional contractors or online via the TRICARE website. Ensure enrollment is completed before retirement to avoid a gap in coverage.

Table 1: Sample 2025 TRICARE Costs for Retirees & Families (Based on preliminary 2025 data; verify current rates at TRICARE.mil)

*OON = Out-of-Network. OON costs for Select often involve percentage cost-shares after deductible.

• VA Health Care: Verify eligibility based on service length, discharge character (other than dishonorable), and potentially service-connected conditions or income level. Many retirees are eligible for VA care, which can be used alongside TRICARE. Apply online via VA Form 10-10EZ at https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or by phone/mail/in person. Gather required information like DD214, income details, and insurance information. Enrollment priority groups may determine copay requirements.
• FEDVIP Dental/Vision: The Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) offers supplemental coverage. Retirees are generally eligible for dental coverage. Vision coverage requires enrollment in a TRICARE health plan. Enrollment is voluntary and occurs via the BENEFEDS portal, typically during Open Season or following a Qualifying Life Event (QLE) like retirement. Premiums are paid post-tax for retirees. Compare plan options and costs using tools on the BENEFEDS site.

Life Insurance Transition (SGLI to VGLI): Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage automatically terminates 120 days after separation or retirement.

• Conversion Options: Members can convert SGLI to Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI), a renewable group term life policy, or to an individual commercial policy (usually whole life).
• VGLI Enrollment: Application for VGLI must be made within 1 year and 120 days of separation. Applying within the first 240 days guarantees acceptance without proof of good health. Applications after 240 days require evidence of good health. Coverage amount can be up to the SGLI level held at separation, capped at $500,000.
• VGLI Costs: Premiums are based on age and coverage amount, and they increase significantly in 5-year age bands. See Table 2 for examples. Because VGLI premiums rise sharply with age, comparing costs with commercial term life insurance policies, especially for healthy individuals, is advisable.
• Commercial Conversion: Conversion to an individual policy with a participating commercial company must be done within 120 days of separation and does not require proof of good health.
• Resources: VA Life Insurance information

Table 2: Sample VGLI Monthly Premiums (Based on rates; verify current rates at VA.gov)

Career Development Actions:

• Resume Building: Begin drafting a civilian resume, translating military skills and experience using tools like the VMET, TAP MOC Crosswalk resources, and online platforms like the Military OneSource Resume Engine. Seek assistance from TAP counselors or veteran support organizations.
• Networking: Actively build professional connections through platforms like LinkedIn, informational interviews, professional associations, and veteran networking groups. Attend virtual or in-person job fairs.
• SkillBridge: If interested in gaining civilian work experience before separation, research and apply for DoD SkillBridge opportunities. This program allows participation in internships, apprenticeships, or training with industry partners during the last 180 days of service, with command approval. Application timelines and specific requirements vary by service (e.g., Navy tiers based on rank).
• Credentialing (COOL): Explore civilian credentials (licenses, certifications) related to military experience via the Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) program. Service-specific programs like Army Credentialing Assistance (CA) and Air Force COOL (AF COOL) may provide funding (e.g., up to $4,500 for AF COOL) to obtain these credentials, enhancing civilian employment prospects.

Official Retirement Request: If not already submitted, file the formal retirement request according to service-specific procedures and timelines. For example, Navy requires submission via NSIPS 5-9 months prior to the desired retirement date to allow time for orders generation. Marine Corps timelines are typically 4-14 months prior. Timely submission is critical as it triggers subsequent administrative actions like orders and draft DD-214 generation.

Post-9/11 GI Bill Transfer: This benefit allows eligible service members (at least 6 years service, commitment to 4 more) to transfer unused education benefits to a spouse or dependent children enrolled in DEERS. Crucially, the transfer request must be initiated and approved via the DoD milConnect portal while the member is still on active duty or in the Selected Reserve. It cannot be done after separation. Usage rules differ: spouses can use benefits immediately (with time limits depending on separation date), while children can typically only use them after the member completes 10 years of service. The Forever GI Bill removed the 15-year expiration date for those separating on or after Jan 1, 2013. Explore VA education benefits at https://www.va.gov/education/.

Closing In: 6 Months Before Retirement

This phase is characterized by finalizing arrangements, completing medical requirements, initiating claims, and managing the logistics of the move and separation paperwork. Effective coordination is key, as several critical processes overlap within the 180-to-90-day window before separation.

Checklist: 6 Months Out

• [ ] Attend TAP Optional 2-Day Tracks if elected/required (Employment, Education, Vocational, Entrepreneurship)
• [ ] Prepare for and coordinate TAP Capstone event (review ITP, ensure Career Readiness Standards met)
• [ ] Schedule and begin final separation physical/dental exams (SHPE or VA Disability Exam for BDD). Aim to complete NLT 30 days prior
• [ ] Initiate VA Disability Claim through Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program if eligible (must file 180-90 days prior to separation)
• [ ] Receive household goods (HHG) counseling and schedule final move dates via DPS/MilMove )
• [ ] Finalize and submit Terminal Leave request
• [ ] Request Permissive TDY (PTDY) for house/job hunting if desired/authorized
• [ ] Review draft DD Form 214 for accuracy (verify dates, awards, training, MOS/Rate, separation code, etc.). Submit corrections with documentation
• [ ] Update legal documents (Wills, Power of Attorney, estate planning)
• [ ] Begin serious job searching/interviewing if applicable; leverage resources like DOL VETS, Hiring Our Heroes, Military OneSource
• [ ] Refine post-retirement budget based on final pay estimates, location costs, and benefit choices
• [ ] Make preliminary housing arrangements (research rentals/purchases in chosen location)
• [ ] Gather copies of all personal and family medical and dental records (Service Treatment Records and civilian records)

Detailed Actions and Considerations

TAP Optional Tracks & Capstone Prep: If pursuing a specific path (employment, education, vocational training, entrepreneurship), attend the corresponding optional 2-day TAP track for in-depth skills and resources. Prepare for the mandatory Capstone event, which must occur no later than 90 days before separation. This involves reviewing the ITP with a counselor and ensuring all Career Readiness Standards (CRS) are met and documented. CRS often include items like a completed resume, a post-transition budget, VA eBenefits registration, and a gap analysis or verification of employment/education acceptance. The commander or designee formally verifies readiness during Capstone. If standards aren’t met, a “warm handover” to appropriate support agencies (like VA or DOL) is facilitated.

Final Medical/Dental Exams (SHPE): The Separation History and Physical Examination (SHPE) is a mandatory requirement for most separating/retiring members. It documents medical history and current health status.

• Timing & Location: The exam should ideally be scheduled early and completed generally between 90 and 30 days before separation. It can be performed at a Military Treatment Facility (MTF) or a VA facility.
• Link to BDD: Crucially, if filing a VA disability claim through the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program, the VA disability examination conducted between 180 and 90 days prior to separation fulfills the SHPE requirement. This integrated approach is the most efficient way to meet both requirements.
• Forms: The process involves completing DD Form 2807-1 (Report of Medical History) and DD Form 2808 (Report of Medical Examination). The DD 2807-1 should focus on service-related conditions.
• Dental: Final dental exams and ensuring dental readiness are also required.

VA Disability Claim (BDD): The BDD program is the preferred method for filing VA disability claims before leaving service.

• Timeline: Claims must be filed between 180 and 90 days prior to the known separation date. Filing closer to the 180-day mark is recommended to allow ample time for exams and processing.
• Process: Apply online at VA.gov or submit VA Form 21-526EZ. Submit complete Service Treatment Records (STRs) for the current period of service, including medical, dental, and mental health records, along with any relevant civilian records. Service members must be available for VA examinations for approximately 45 days after submitting the claim.
• Goal: The objective of BDD is to provide a VA disability rating decision shortly after separation, facilitating timely access to compensation and healthcare benefits.
• Exclusions: Certain cases are excluded from BDD (e.g., requiring foreign exams, serious illness/injury needing case management, pregnancy, character of discharge issues). These claims are processed through standard VA channels post-separation.

Household Goods (HHG) Move: Coordinate the final military-funded move.

• Entitlement: Retirees are typically entitled to one final move from their last duty station (or other authorized location) to a Home of Selection (HOS) anywhere in the U.S. (or to their home of record if OCONUS). This entitlement must generally be used within one year of the retirement date.
• Scheduling: Receive HHG counseling from the installation transportation office (Personal Property Office). Schedule the move using the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) accessible via the official DoD portal. Start this process early, especially during peak moving season, to secure desired pack/pickup dates.
• Move Options: Choose between a government-contracted move or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), where the member moves themselves and gets reimbursed up to what the government would have paid. Note: Advances are generally not authorized for retirees doing PPMs.
• Storage: Options include Storage-In-Transit (SIT) at the destination for up to 90 days, or Non-Temporary Storage (NTS) for up to one year, typically used if a permanent residence isn’t immediately available.
• Extensions: Extensions beyond the one-year limit may be granted for specific reasons like medical treatment or full-time education, but require formal application and approval.

Leave Planning: Finalize terminal leave dates and submit the request through the appropriate system (e.g., Navy e-Leave, Army IPPS-A). If taking Permissive TDY (PTDY) for job or house hunting, ensure it’s approved and documented. Understand the financial implications of taking terminal leave versus selling back accrued leave (up to 60 days over a career).

DD Form 214 Review (Draft): This is a critical checkpoint. The personnel or transition office will typically provide a draft DD Form 214 worksheet for review. Meticulously verify every block: Name, SSN, service dates, rank, MOS/Rate, education, awards/decorations, combat/overseas time, separation information (type, character, authority, reason, reentry code). Compare it against source documents (OMPF, orders, training certificates, awards citations). Submit any necessary corrections with supporting documentation promptly. Correcting errors on the draft is far easier than attempting corrections after separation through the Board for Correction of Military Records. The DD-214 is the primary document for accessing nearly all veteran benefits and verifying service for employment.

Legal & Financial Prep: Update essential legal documents like wills and powers of attorney (general and medical). Refine the post-retirement budget based on finalized retirement pay estimates, anticipated location costs, and chosen benefit premiums (TRICARE, FEDVIP, VGLI). Begin making concrete housing arrangements if moving immediately upon retirement.

Record Collection: Obtain complete copies of personal and family medical and dental records, both military (STRs) and civilian. The repeated emphasis on this task suggests that relying solely on official record transfers (e.g., DoD to VA) can be problematic. Having personal copies ensures access for future VA claims, appeals, or civilian healthcare needs. Consider making multiple copies and storing them securely (e.g., personal files, VA file, safe deposit box).

The Final Stretch: 90 Days to Separation/Retirement Day

This period is focused on final administrative actions, out-processing, benefit enrollment confirmation, and the logistics of the physical departure from service. Smooth execution relies heavily on the timely completion of tasks in the preceding months.

Checklist: 90 Days to Go

• [ ] Complete TAP Capstone review with Commander/designee (Must be done NLT 90 days prior)
• [ ] Finalize and submit SBP election form (DD Form 2656) to DFAS (Must arrive 45-60 days prior to retirement date)
• [ ] Complete TRICARE enrollment for retiree plan (Prime or Select)
• [ ] Enroll in FEDVIP dental/vision plan via BENEFEDS if desired (use retirement QLE window)
• [ ] Apply for VGLI if desired (can be done now or later, but apply within 240 days for guaranteed acceptance)
• [ ] Complete final installation/unit out-processing requirements (clearing papers, turn-ins, final signatures)
• [ ] Attend final finance briefing; verify final pay, allotments, leave balance, travel entitlements in myPay (https://mypay.dfas.mil/)
• [ ] Receive final, signed DD Form 214 (Member-4 copy). VERIFY ACCURACY AGAIN. Secure multiple copies
• [ ] Ensure you have copies of all essential documents (Orders, DD214, medical/dental records, legal docs, SBP election, etc.)
• [ ] Oversee/complete HHG pack-out/shipment
• [ ] Turn in active duty ID card (CAC); obtain Retiree/Dependent ID cards
• [ ] Attend retirement ceremony if applicable
• [ ] Prepare for Day 1 of retirement (confirm housing, transportation, initial funds access)

Detailed Actions and Considerations

Capstone Completion: The TAP Capstone event must be completed no later than 90 days before separation. This signifies the formal verification by command that the service member has met Career Readiness Standards and has a viable Individual Transition Plan.

Benefit Lock-In: This is the time to finalize critical benefit elections and enrollments.

• SBP: Submit the signed DD Form 2656 (Data for Payment of Retired Personnel), which includes the SBP election, directly to DFAS. Crucial Deadline: This form must be received by DFAS between 45 and 60 days before the retirement date. Failure to meet this deadline can result in DFAS automatically deducting premiums for full spouse coverage, even if a different election was intended. Remember, electing less than maximum spouse coverage requires a notarized spousal signature.
• TRICARE: Finalize enrollment in the chosen retiree health plan (TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Select). This is not automatic and must be actively completed through the TRICARE website or the regional contractor to ensure continuous coverage starting on the date of retirement.
• FEDVIP: If opting for supplemental dental and/or vision coverage, enroll through BENEFEDS. Retirement qualifies as a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), opening a 60-day enrollment window around the retirement date.
• VGLI: While the application window extends well beyond retirement (1 year + 120 days), applying for VGLI now ensures continuous life insurance coverage. Applying within 240 days of separation guarantees acceptance without medical underwriting. Application is typically via VA Form SGLV 8715 or potentially online through the OSGLI portal.

Final Out-Processing: This involves systematically clearing various installation and unit offices. Expect to use a checklist provided by the base/unit personnel section. This typically includes returning equipment, clearing housing, library, medical, dental, and finance, and obtaining final signatures. Attend the mandatory final finance briefing to understand final pay, leave sell-back calculations, travel entitlements, and allotment processing. Verify all information in DFAS myPay.

The DD Form 214 – Final Version: During final out-processing, the service member will receive the official, signed DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. The Member-4 copy is the veteran’s primary record. It is imperative to review this final document meticulously for accuracy before leaving the issuing office. Compare it against the reviewed draft and source documents one last time. Ensure all dates, awards, training, deployment time, and separation details are correct. This document acts as the veteran’s essential “passport” for accessing post-service benefits and verifying military service. Secure the original and make multiple copies for various needs. Navy members may also be able to access it via BUPERS Online (BOL).

Logistics Wrap-up: Coordinate and oversee the pack-out and shipment of household goods if using a government mover. Turn in the Common Access Card (CAC). Schedule appointments to obtain new retiree and dependent ID cards, which grant access to base facilities and serve as proof of eligibility for certain benefits.

Transition Day: Prepare for the actual day of transition. Confirm final housing arrangements, transportation from the last duty station, and ensure access to personal funds to cover expenses during the potential gap before retirement pay and VA benefits commence.

Table 3: TAP Core Components Summary

Post-Retirement Considerations

While this guide focuses on preparation before retirement, the transition process continues well beyond the final day in uniform. Accessing benefits and fully adjusting to civilian life requires ongoing engagement.

• Continued Support: Utilize Military OneSource resources for 365 days post-separation/retirement. This includes free financial counseling, career coaching, relocation assistance, and confidential non-medical counseling.
• VA Engagement: Actively engage with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Enroll in and utilize VA healthcare if eligible. Follow up on BDD or file standard disability claims. Apply for and manage education benefits like the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Explore VA home loan eligibility.
• Life Insurance: If SGLI was not converted before separation, ensure VGLI application is submitted within the 1 year and 120-day window.
• Career Resources: Continue leveraging Department of Labor VETS resources, including American Job Centers, HIRE Vets Medallion Program employers, and potentially Off-Base Transition Training (OBTT). Utilize veteran hiring initiatives like Hiring Our Heroes.
• Administrative Updates: Keep contact information (mailing address, email, phone, banking) updated with DFAS (via myPay) and the VA (via VA.gov) to ensure receipt of payments and important communications. Monitor retirement pay statements for accuracy.
• Adjustment and Wellness: Adjusting to civilian life involves cultural shifts and potentially finding new routines and communities. Seek mental wellness support through VA resources, Vet Centers, Military OneSource, or community providers if needed. Remember that transition is a process, not just a single event.

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