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.
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: August 30, 2011

NEED-TO-KNOW INFORMATION