Military Separation Must-Dos Checklist

3 minute read Aug. 25, 2026

You’ve decided to separate from the military. Now it’s time to make the most of the time and earned benefits you have left. There’s a list of tasks to accomplish before your military separation period ends, and most of them come with a due date:

Think about your post-military goals and the income you’ll need. Start researching how your military experience could translate to a civilian career. For example, could you benefit from the Joint Services Transcript? Have you thought about joining the guard or reserves? Do you know any veteran-friendly employers?
Contact your local Transition Assistance Program to learn the benefits and resources available to help you and your family prepare for a successful transition. Start early — you must complete a mandatory initial counseling session with a transition counselor and complete pre-separation counseling no less than 365 days before your separation or retirement date. Remember, you can attend TAP more than once.
During TAP, you’ll also receive briefings and resources from the War Department, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Labor.
Check out Military OneSource’s specialty consultation for transitioning veterans for extra assistance with your transition.
Schedule a final Separation Health Assessment 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.
Schedule the final move of your household goods. The earlier, the better. You’ll have one year after leaving active duty to complete your final move. The sooner you can schedule, the better your chances of getting the dates you want. Read the Final Move guide for more information.
Talk to your spouse about participating in the Military Spouse Relocation & Transition Consultations. This program is designed to guide military spouses through the military-to-civilian transition, including post-military benefits, healthcare, finances and transition training.
Give yourself time to prepare. Some transition tasks must be completed as early as 365 days before separation, so starting early can help you stay on track and make the most of the resources and benefits available to you. If you have questions or need support along the way, Military OneSource is here to help.

A full year of separation support

As you transition to civilian life, you and your family can continue to access Military OneSource services for 365 days after separation or retirement, including: