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?
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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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.
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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:
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Army: Army Career and Alumni Program - The Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP)
is a military personnel function and the Centers are found under the Director of Human Resources
(DHR) or the Military Personnel Office (MILPO).
http://www.acap.army.mil/
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Air Force: Airman and Family Readiness Center. You can find the nearest
office using the military installation finder at:
http://www.militaryinstallations.dod.mil
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Navy: Fleet and Family Support Center. Navy personnel should make an
appointment with their Command Career Counselor for a Pre-Separation counseling interview at least
180 days prior to separation.
http://ffsp.navy.mil
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Marines: Career Resource Management Center (CRMC)/Transition & Employment
Assistance Program Center.
http://www.usmc-mccs.org/tamp/index.cfm
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Coast Guard: Worklife Division – Transition Assistance. Coast Guard Worklife
staffs can be found at your nearest Integrated Support Command.
http://www.uscg.mil/worklife/
Date Last Reviewed: August 30, 2011