Introduction to Transition Assistance
Returning to civilian life is an exciting time, one full of hope for what the next chapter
might bring. But the transition is also a complex undertaking. You have many steps to
take, and many questions to get answered. Transition assistance staff, personnel office staff,
relocation specialists, education counselors, and many others can help, but only you and your
family can make the critical decisions that must be made. So where should you start?
This Preseparation Guide will help you work through the sections listed on DD Form 2648, “
Preseparation Counseling Checklist.” The checklist allows you to indicate the benefits and
services that you wish to receive additional counseling as you prepare your ITP. In those
cases where the Transition Counselor cannot answer questions, you will be referred to subject
matter experts that will provide you the information that you need. Work through each element
of the guide, but take advantage of your opportunity to request the specific resources that are
appropriate for you.
If you are uncertain about your future plans, now is the time to obtain all the assistance and
information you need. Professional guidance and counseling are available at your Transition
Assistance Office, as are workshops, publications, information resources, automated resources, and
government programs. Take advantage of each one that pertains to your unique
situation. It is your Individual Transition Plan: It is your responsibility and your
life.
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Hot Tip:
Independent research has found that on average, servicemembers participating in the Transition
Assistance Program find their first post-military job three weeks sooner than those who do not
participate in TAP.
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The DoD Transition Assistance Program (TAP) was designed by the Department of Defense to
smooth the transition of military personnel (and family members) leaving active duty. TAP is a
partnership among DoD, DOL, and VA and consists of four components:
FOR FULL-TIME ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS:
1.
DoD Preseparation Counseling: A thorough review of transition services, benefits,
and resources begins your transition process. You should make an appointment with your
transition office 12 months
before your known separation date (for retiring Service members, you can make an appointment 24
months prior to your retirement date).
2.
Department of Labor (DOL) Employment Workshops: During this 2 1/2 day workshop,
you will learn how to write a resume and cover letter, obtain information on skills assessment and
job search techniques, and learn other important information about career and job services
available through DOL.
3.
VA Benefits Briefing: In this 4-hour session, you’ll learn about the
VA
benefits you may be entitled to, including the Montgomery GI Bill, healthcare, VA counseling,
home loan program, and more.
4.
Disabled Transition Assistance Program (DTAP): If you have a
service-connected
disability (or think that you might), you must attend this 2-hour briefing. You will learn
about eligibility for Chapter 31, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Service benefits by VA,
and more.
Once you have completed the four workshops above, you are eligible for one-on-one counseling
and employment assistance training through your service.
FOR DEMOBILIZING GUARD AND RESERVE
DoD Preseparation Counseling: During demobilization, and prior to release from
active duty, Service members returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring
Freedom (OEF) can receive 2-hour preseparation counseling.
Department of Labor Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)
Briefing: You are eligible to receive a USERRA Briefing prior to your release from active
duty. Once home, you should contact the DOL Career One-Stop Center in your community to receive
further employment assistance.
VA Benefits Briefing: Prior to release form active duty, you are eligible to
receive a
VA
Benefits Briefing.
VA DTAP Briefing: This normally occurs as part of the VA Benefits Briefing and
usually includes information about application procedures for vocational rehabilitation and
employment assistance. This information is for Service members who have or think they have a
service-connected
disability. Members should always follow-up once they return home by contacting the VA office
closest to where they live.
