Transition Assistance Programs and Resources
The military has an extensive array of services to help make your separation a success. If you're an active-duty service member, National Guard and Reserve Component service member, or service member's spouse, you can take advantage of these transition assistance resources and more.
Transition resources and programs
- The Department of Defense Transition Assistance Program has information, tools and training to prepare you and your family for your military-to-civilian transition.
- Find your nearest Transition Assistance office. Transition Assistance Offices are on most military installations in the United States and overseas. Each service branch has its own program:
Core components of the TAP curriculum
Pre-separation Counseling: A mandatory session where counselors introduce the Individual Transition Plan (ITP) and discuss education and training, employment and career goals, financial management, health and wellbeing, and relocation and housing
Resilient Transitions: An introduction to resources on transition-related issues including stress management, considerations for families, support systems, value of a mentor, and special issues that eligible service members and their families may encounter as they prepare for post-military life
Military Occupational Code (MOC) Crosswalk: A two to three-hour demonstration of how to translate military skills, training and experience into credentialing appropriate for civilian jobs
Financial Planning for Transition: A four to six -our class providing Service members with the information and tools needed to identify post-transition financial responsibilities, obligations and goals
VA Benefits I and II Briefings: Two sessions (for a total of six hours) led by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) which teaches Service members how to apply for benefits and connect to VA for future assistance
DOL Employment Workshop: A three-day workshop led by the Department of Labor (DOL) focusing on job-seeking techniques such as interview skills and building effective resumes
ITP Review: A discussion with a TAP counselor to ensure the service member is on track to meet CRS and achieve their post-transition goals
Capstone: A culminating event in which Commanders verify achievement of CRS prior to transition
Individual Training Tracks: Two-day courses focusing on three, self-selected paths: Accessing Higher Education, for those pursuing a college education; Career Technical Training, for those seeking job-ready skills and industry-recognized credentials in shorter-term training programs; and Entrepreneurship (“Boots to Business”) for those wanting to start their own business
Make sure you get your VMET
Your service branch is required to verify your military experience and training. Your Verification of Military Experiences and Training form DD 2586, or VMET, to assess your knowledge, experience and skills as they relate to civilian jobs. The form provides:
- Military experience and training
- Recommended college-credit information
- Civilian-equivalent job titles
Download your VMET from the Defense Manpower Data Center >
More transition resources
- Installation briefings. Installations hold classes and seminars on dressing for success, goal setting, change management and evaluating and negotiating job offers.
- Individual assistance. Installation transition assistance offices provides personal help for you and your spouse for up to 180 days after separation or retirement, including one-on-one support, resources, needs assessments and referrals.
Your transition to civilian life is a significant event. Start planning as soon as you know you'll be leaving the military — even if it's a year or more away.
