Getting 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?
The new “My Decision Points” individual transition plan (ITP) program will help you develop your personalized game plan for successfully transitioning back to civilian life. “My Decision Points” provides the framework to help you identify your unique skills, knowledge, desires, experience, and abilities to help you make wise choices. It is not a Department of Defense form; it is something you create by yourself, for yourself with information found at http://www.TurboTAP.org and assistance from a Transition Counselor. Those who do not reside in close proximity to a military installation can also get assistance by telephone, e-mail, CD ROM, etc. 
This Pre-Separation Guide will help you work through the sections listed on DD Form 2648, “ Pre-Separation 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.
Independent research has found that on average, Service members participating in the Transition Assistance Program find their first post-military job three weeks sooner than those who do not participate in TAP.


Pre-Separation Counseling: Your Best Beginning
Your first step in the separation process is to go to your installation's Transition Assistance Office. Each service has its own way of doing things; so too with the Transition Assistance Offices. In most cases, you will find the Transition Assistance Office located inside your installation's Family Center. This is the best place find information and to schedule a TAP workshop in your area.
Listed below is the name of each service’s Transition Assistance Program:
Date Last Reviewed: June 29, 2009

NEED-TO-KNOW INFORMATION