How to Prepare for Military Separation

Transitioning from the military to the civilian world is not an easy feat. Whether you are retiring or separating, no one ever seems fully prepared to wake up and not worry about putting on a uniform. If you are separating from the military, even more special challenges await you because Uncle Sam isn't forking out to cover certain expenses you were used to. Read on to learn how to prepare for military separation.

Things You'll Need

• Access to a Veterans Administration hospital
• Internet access
• Separate file cabinet or briefcase
• USB memory stick (at least 1GB)

Instructions

1. Find a job at least three months before you separate. Even if you are retiring, your retirement check is most likely not going to cover all your living expenses. Start looking for work at least a few months before you actually separate. Some companies like Lockheed Martin will even consider hiring you to work during your terminal leave if you line up all your ducks in a row. Otherwise, network with military-friendly companies because they understand everything you have to offer just from your enlistment or commissioning with the military.

2. Scan, print and store all your training. You may not be an artillery instructor when you separate, but surely you have had some training in leadership and communication skills. And do you have any idea how much it costs in the civilian world to get trained in First Aid or CPR? Any documentation you have that shows training gives you an edge over the civilian work force. Keep those files on a memory stick or a separate briefcase from everything else. And definitely don't forget your DD 214.

3. Get a final health check. Even if it is your pinkie toe that's been bothering you since boot camp, get it checked out. You should start getting everything examined and documented at least a year before you separate to allow time for X-rays and MRIs if needed. Every documented medical condition that you got in the service can possibly qualify you for a veterans service-connected disability benefit. That's tax-free dollars in your pocket for life! Your local veterans service officer can direct you to the closest VA hospital to get those exams rated.

4. Find health insurance for you and your family. If you are retiring, your Tricare insurance coverage should be able to handle most everything your family needs and receives at this time for health care. However, separating members must find other insurance. You are most likely covered by the VA, but your dependents are not. Find good health coverage before you get out or look into what your future employer offers.

5. Window shop for groceries. The best benefit that the military has to offer is access to the commissary. Many civilian supermarkets simply can't compete with commissary prices. However, buying in bulk or at certain grocery store outlets can bring your costs close--if you budget wisely. Shop around before separating. And if you can do it, save some money to do one last good raid at the commissary.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for Federal employment. The application process is lengthy but the job security is amazing.

• Attend all and every transition class and job search class your base or post has to offer. It's legal job hunting on company time.

• Get your family health checked out too.