Veteran Links for Transitioning Military and Veterans

Important steps for transitioners:

1. see your transition assistance program staff at your local military installation to set up a preseparation counseling appointment and to learn about new initiatives/services that may be available to you (applying for VA disability compensation 90 days BEFORE leaving the service is available in some areas). Retirees can access transition services 2 years before their retirement date and separatees can access transition services 1 year before their DOS. View the Preseparation Guide.

2. make a personal copy of your medical records before leaving the service

3. safeguard your DD214 or file a certified copy of your DD214 at your county courthouse. AF issued the following guidance
-- "To ensure documents will be safeguarded from viewing by unauthorized individuals, separating members should ascertain from the registering agency whether State or local law will permit the public access to the recorded document. If public access is authorized, and you register the DD Form 214, a member of the public could obtain a copy for an unlawful purpose (e.g., to obtain a credit card in your name). If public access is permitted, and you choose not to register your DD Form 214, you still should take steps to protect it as you would any other sensitive document (wills, marriage and birth certificates, insurance policies). You may wish to store it in a safe deposit box or at some other secure location where it will be protected."
(if you've lost your copy of your DD214, contact your courthouse or - if you never filed a copy - contact your local VA office or download SF 180 from http://www.archives.gov/research_room/obtain_copies/veterans_service_records.html and follow their instructions)

4. All projected separatees should realize they might not be able to access services on an installation beyond their DOS, and should be prepared to use other resources (DoL, VA, etc.) available to them after separation.

5. explore the websites below for general information

6. contact a local office, such as a Vets Center or VA Medical Center, for specific information
(don't ever assume that you do or don't qualify for a benefit - ask the experts at the proper VA agency how to apply for the benefit)

7. call the VA toll free number at 1-800-827-1000 for assistance