Transition Timeline

Your 24-month roadmap to a successful military-to-civilian transition

Transition Planning

Separation Date
4/19/2028
Days Until Separation
732
Timeline Progress
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Task Progress
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Tasks Complete
0/20
Timeline Progress
Task Completion
Past Due
Urgent
Coming Up
On Track

24 Months Before Separation

Begin planning and exploring options

0/3
completed

Develop a Plan

Begin building your professional network. Find mentors/coaches. Translate your military skills to the civilian sector. Create a financial plan. Consider: - Value of your security clearance - Joining the guard/reserves - Retirement scenarios

Update Resume
Map Career Expertise
Explore Reserves/ANG

18 Months Before Separation

Develop skills and explore career paths

0/8
completed

Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Workshop

Prepares Service members and spouses for the next step in civilian life.

Schedule Now

Start VA Disability Claim

Begin gathering pertinent medical, dental records, and supporting documents. VA claim timelines vary. Explore Benefits Delivery at Discharge Program. Start early.

Understand Claims Process
File Claim
Explore BDD Program
Claim Calculator

Begin Upskilling & Certifications

Research programs like DoD Skillbridge to gain industry experience. More resources can be found in the upskilling resources selection tab below.

Explore VA Training
Evaluate DoD COOL
Skillbridge FAQ

12 Months Before Separation

Execute your transition plan

0/5
completed

SkillBridge Application

Apply for DoD SkillBridge program to gain civilian work experience.

Apply

Refine Resume, Interview Prep, Apply to Jobs

Begin building your resume, translating your skills to the civilian sector, and searching for jobs.

Prep for Interviews
USA Jobs
LinkedIn Premium
Clearance Jobs

6 Months Before Separation

Final preparations and paperwork

0/4
completed

Final Health Assessment and Dental Exam

Schedule a final Separation Health Assessment (SHA) and dental exams. You'll need a mandatory, final medical and dental exam with your installation's medical clinic no later than 90 days before you separate. The SHA may be used to file a VA disability compensation claim.

More info & FAQ

Sprint to the Finish Line

Transition and retirement is difficult both mentally and logistically. Continue updating your resume, applying to jobs, and leveraging your peers and mentors. Consider healthcare, education, and other benefits. You got this!

GI Bill Benefits
Planning for Retirement
Mental Health Resources

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