CREATED BY:NC2 (AW) McCLINTIC

VFA-147 COMMAND CAREER COUNSELORPRESENTED BY:

10 U.S.C. 1142Federal law requires that all personnel

separating from the Military are offered the opportunity to attend a Transition Assistance Program (TAP) class. This counseling is also required to be conducted prior to attending and by federal law.

EFFECTS OF A CAREER CHANGESeparating from the military is a LIFE

CHANGING event. You are going from one lifestyle to another.

A military career can be very challenging and rewarding.

It is natural for Service members to be proud of their accomplishments while on Active Duty.

Now you are ready for a new career and new challenges as a civilian.

EFFECTS OF A CAREER CHANGEIt is important for you to make decisions

about your future that are the right decisions.You may, however, experience stress and/or

anxiety as a result of change, problems and even opportunities.

If/when you experience this stress, there is help…

EFFECTS OF A CAREER CHANGEHere are some

resources:ChaplainBehavioral Health

ClinicVAEducation officeFFSCMilitary OneSourceVeteran Service

Organizations

Military Service Organizations

VA vet centersCommunity servicesSelf help booksAmeriforce

Deployment guideNational center for

PTSDCourage to care.

DOL TAP WORKSHOPTAP is a congressionally mandated program

designed to help separating or retiring Service members and their families make a smooth transition to civilian life.

Retiring members should attend TAP 24 months prior to retirement.

Separating members are encouraged to attend TAP 12 months prior to separation.

The program is a joint effort between DOD, DOL, VA and Homeland Security.

VMETSeparating service members are encouraged

to download their VMET as soon as they make a decision to separate.

It is recommended that they receive the form at least 120 days before separation date.

The VMET can be utilized to verify military experience and training

The form also puts military experience and training into civilian terms for resume writing.

ONET licensing and certificationCareer OneStopCOOLUSMAPDANTESO*NET is the nation’s primary source of

occupational information

LICENSING, CERTIFICATION AND APPRENTICESHIP INFORMATIONMany military specialties require certification

or licensure to perform the same job in the civilian world

Many vets leave the service with skills and experience qualifying them, sometimes with little or no additional training, for comparable civilian occupations requiring a license or certificate of competency.

DOL AMERICA’S CAREERONESTOPThis section refers to the department of

labor, America’s Career OneStop website which helps individuals explore credentialing requirements for various career opportunities.

This section of the website has information on credentials, licenses, apprenticeships and resources.

U.S. MILITARY APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMUSMAP is a program for service members

that are serving in the USMC, USN and USCG that allows active duty service personnel to complete different civilian apprenticeship elements while doing their jobs on active duty.

This program is recognized by the DOL, and they issue a certificate that is nationally recognized when the program is completed.

DANTESDANTES offers several different programs

such as:Certification ProgramsCounselor Support ProgramsDistance Learning ProgramsTuition Assistance Programs

DANTESDANTES also offers the following Examination

ProgramsGeneral Education Development (GED)ACT Assessment Program (ACT)Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)Graduate Record Examination (GRE)Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)Teacher Certification Test Series/ PraxisLaw School Admission Test (LSAT)College Level Examination Program (CLEP)DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSSTs)Excelsior College Examinations (ECE)

DANTESThe following is other programs offered by

DANTES:Higher education programsReserve component programsTroops to TeachersScholarships for severely injured service

membersCLEP and SOCDANTES standardized tests

US NAVY COOLThis website is designed for NAVY service

members and explains how service members can meet civilian certification and license requirements related to their ratings, jobs designators and occupations.

NAVY COOLService members can use COOL to:

Get background information about civilian licensure and certification

Identify licenses and certifications relevant to military ratings

Learn how to fill gaps between military training and experience and civilian credentialing requirements

Learn about resources available to service members that can help them gain civilian job credentials

Explore financial assistance

Turbo TAPTurboTAP is a comprehensive portal for

separation and retirement related issues.Provides links to resources for money

management, veterans benefits, education and training assistance and a multitude of other links for information.

EMPLOYMENT HUBThe employment hub is a resource for service

members who are ready to start their job search process

This hub helps members translate their military skills and experience, build a resume, search for jobs and provide interview tips.

STATE JOB BOARDSEach state has a state job boardThese postings are typically electronic and

found on the specific state websiteEmployers can search for job applicants

using their state site and applicants can post their information directly on most state job board sites.

DOL REAL LIFELINESThe recovery and employment assistance

lifelines (REALifelines) advisor provides veterans and transitioning service members wounded and injured as a result of the War on Terrorism and their family members, with the resources they need to successfully transition to a rewarding career.

PUBLIC AND COMMUNITY SERVICE (PACS)All separating service members and former

members shall be encouraged to enter public or community service employment

DOD civilian personnel leaving the Government, their spouses and spouses of service members who are seeking employment shall be encouraged to register for public and community service

TROOPS TO TEACHERSTroops to teachers offers careers in public

education as a teacherMilitary personnel, active and reserve, may

receive assistance to pursue a new career in public education as teachers

Pending appropriations qualified military personnel may be eligible for a stipend to help pay for the cost of a teacher certification program or receive a bonus to teach in “high needs” school districts.

TROOPS TO TEACHERSEducation requirements”

Individuals must hold a baccalaureate or advanced degree from an accredited institution at the time of application in interested in an elementary or secondary education classroom

A minimum of one year of college (or the equivalent) with six years of experience in a vocational or technical field is required if interested in instructing vocational/technical education at the secondary level

TROOPS TO TEACHERSService requirements”

Continuous active duty for 6 years or moreReserve members with 10+ years of active

and/or reserve serviceActive or reserve members separated due to

physical disabilityLast period of service MUST be honorable.

FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIESVeterans employment act (VEOA):

Veterans have access to merit promotion positions through this act

This authority permits an agency to appoint an eligible veteran who has applied under an agency merit promotion announcement that is open to candidates outside the agency

USA JOBSUSAJOBS is the official job site of the Untied

States Federal Government.Serves as the Office of Personnel

Management (OPM) websiteIs a one-stop source for federal jobs and

employment informationIndividuals can search for Federal jobsVeterans are able to verify if they qualify for

veteran preference points and other Federal benefit programs

GO-DEFENSEComprehensive website that offers the job

seeker information on careers in National defense.

Great source for non-appropriated fund jobs.Includes many levels of employment from

entry level to executive level

VETERANS’ PREFERENCE IN FEDERAL EMPLYMENTTo receive preference, a veteran must have

been discharged or released from active duty in the Armed Forces under honorable conditions.

There is a five-point and a ten-point preference for veterans that meet certain criteria.

VETERANS FEDERAL PROCUREMENT OPPORTUNITIESThe small business development act of 1999

and executive order requires federal procurement officials and prime contractors provide small business owned and controlled by veterans or service-disabled veterans with the maximum practicable opportunities to participate in the performance of contracts let by any federal agency, including subcontracts.

OPM SPECIAL HIRING AUTHORITIESSpecial appointing authorities for veterans:

A noncompetitive appointment under special authority

Eligibility under these special authorities gives veterans a very significant advantage over others seeking to enter the federal service in that they do not compete with them

Use of these special authorities is discretionary with the agency

Veterans’ preference applies when making appointments under these special authorities if there are two or more candidates and one or more is a preference eligible.

OPM SPECIAL HIRING AUTHORITIESThe veterans recruitment appointment (VRA)

is a special authority by which agencies can appoint an eligible veteran without competition

The VRA is an excepted appointment to a position that is otherwise in the competitive service

After 2 years of satisfactory service, the veteran is converted to a career-conditional appointment in the competitive service

OPM SPECIAL HIRING AUTHORITIES30 percent or more disabled veterans:

May be given a temporary or term appointment (not limited to 60 days or less) to a position for which qualified (no grade limitation)

After demonstrating satisfactory performance, the veteran may be converted at any time to a career-conditional appointment.

HIRING PREFERENCE IN NAF JOBSNAF – Non-appropriated FundEligible involuntary separates are those who

receive an administrative separation initiated from their commander that is not considered derogatory in nature and which results in an honorable discharge, special separation benefit or voluntary separation incentive separates.

The member and their family members are authorized a one-time employment preference for NAF positions they are qualified to perform.

STATE EMPLOYMENT AGENCIESState employment agencies and One-stop

Career Centers have Veteran Employment Representatives dedicated to solely helping veterans

These centers are one of the veterans best chances to find employment

Because veterans receive priority for referral, testing, counseling, and other services, they are encouraged to visit and register with the local employment agency.

STATE EMPLOYMENT AGENCIESBenefits vary among statesDisabled veteran outreach program specialists

(DVOP) exclusively serve VeteransMain focus is on veterans who have barriers to

employment and are in need of intensive servicesLocal veterans’ employment representatives

(LVER) exclusively serve VeteransThey facilitate and directly provide employment,

training and placement services to veteransLVERs also conduct employer outreach

ONE-STOP CAREER CENTERSOne-stop Career Centers are designed to provide a full

range of assistance to job seekers under one roofCustomers can visit a center in person or in most

states connect to the center’s information through PC or kiosk remote access

They are designed to be conveniently located in the community and provide a wealth of information for job seekers, education and training seekers and employers

The One-stop career center system is coordinated by the DOL employment and training administration(ETA)

Centers can be located by calling ETA’s toll-free number at (877) US-2JOBS

WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACT (WIA)The Workforce Investment Act administered

by the U.S. DOL provides a framework for a national workforce preparation and employment system designed to meet both the needs of the nation’s businesses and the needs of the job seekers and those who want to further their careers

The basis of the program is to locally manage a program that is conveniently accessible to the community

WIACustomers choose the programs that best

benefit their personal situation and control their own career development by accessing core employment services

The most important aspect of the Act is its focus on meeting the needs of businesses for skilled workers and the training, education and employment needs of individuals

This Act also enables customers to access the information and services they need through the One-stop Career Centers

VETERANS SMALL BUSINESS OWNERSHIPSSmall Business Administrations (SBAs)

function was to “aid, counsel, assist and protect, insofar as is possible, the interests of small business concerns”

SBA’s programs now include financial and federal contract procurement assistance, management assistance, and specialized outreach to women, minorities and armed forces veterans.

VETERANS SMALL BUSINESS OWNERSHIPSPatriot express loan initiative:

The patriot express loan is designed to support and assist those in the military community wanting to establish or expand their small businesses

It is offered by SBA’s network of participating lenders nationwide and features our fastest turnaround time for loan approvals by streamlining documentation and processing

Loans are available to businesses where the veteran is at least 51% owner

NATIONAL VETERAN’S BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONNational Veteran’s Business Development

Corporation is a congressionally mandated program to achieve compliance with the three percent goal of procurement for disabled veterans as established by law took shape in 2001 with the formation of the National Veterans Business Corporation

UNIFORMED SERVICES EMPLOYMENT AND REEMPLOYMENT ACTUSERRA provides that returning service-members

are reemployment in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service (the “escalator” principle), with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority

USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment

USERRAUSERRA also provides protection from

discrimination due to military affiliationBasic eligibility includes character of service,

initial obligation/duration of service, advance notice and timely reapplication

It applies not only to active duty, but also the guard and reserves

Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS) administers USERRA

VETS provides assistance to those persons experiencing service connected problems with their civilian employment and provides information about the Act to employers

PRIORITY OF SERVICEPriority of service means that veterans and eligible

spouses are given over non-covered persons for the receipt of employment, training, and placement services for any DOL funded program

Priority means the covered persons is entitled to precedence over non-covered persons for services

This means covered persons either receive access to a service earlier in time than a non-covered person or, if the resource is limited, the covered person receives access instead of the non-covered person

PERMISSIVE TEMPORARY (PTDY) AND EXCESS LEAVEThe secretary of the military department

concerned shall grant eligible members being discharged or released from active duty, such excess leave for a period not in excess of 30 days, of such transition PTDY not to exceed 10 days, as members require to facilitate relocation, unless to do so would interfere with military missions

Service members may request excess leave or PTDY/TAD, but not both

PERMISSIVE TEMPORARY (PTDY) AND EXCESS LEAVEReserve component members are not

authorized leave other than what they have earned through their period of active duty service

If they are transitioning from the service, they should check with their local command authority to determine leave policies and options

Eligibility is based on type of discharge, SPD code, command discretion and type of separation/retirement

PERMISSIVE TEMPORARY (PTDY) AND EXCESS LEAVETime frames:

Retirees and members separating with an SPD code that confers transition benefits may take up to 20 days PTDY for job hunting, house hunting or other relocation activities

Those overseas (and non-CONUS residents not stationed at their home of record) may take up to 30 days PTDY

Excess leave is not available for retireesThose separating with an SPD code that

confers transition benefits have the option of requesting 30 days excess leave in lieu of PTDY

TRAVEL/TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCESIn most cases the reserve members are

returning to the same community and home where they resided before entering active duty status.

If they don’t fit that scenario, then they must consider their next move

The move accompanying separation/retirement is different from other military moves

TRAVEL/TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCESExtended housing allowance

If member is an eligible involuntary separatee or a selected early retirement board (SERB) retiree, a military housing extension, for up to 180 days after separation, may be available at a rental rate, space permitting

Contact the base housing office for more information

TRAVEL/TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCESHome of record:

Normally, the home of record is the place they lived when they entered the military

The official home of record is listed in the service record

Home of selectionAny destination within the US

TRAVEL/TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCESEntitlements:

Reserve component members are not normally authorized shipment or storage of household goods

RC members should check with their unit Commander for more information on shipment, storage and transportation after their release

Separating members are authorized travel and transportation allowances from their last duty station to their home of record or place entered active duty

Members retiring are authorized travel and transportation allowances from their last duty station to a home of selection or home of record, or place entered active duty outside the US

TRAVEL/TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCESHousehold Goods may be moved to the

HOR/HOSThe HHG must be turned over to the

transportation officer within 180 days/one year time limit

HHG may be stored for up to 180 days for separates and one year for retirees.

CONTACT INFORMATION FOR HOUSING COUNSELING ASSISTANCEThe US Department of Housing and Urban

Developments (HUD) mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all

CONTACT INFORMATION FOR HOUSING COUNSELING ASSISTANCEHUD is committed to resolving the issue of

homelessness for all Americans, including active duty military as well as veterans and their families

The HUD Veteran Resource Center (HUDVET) was created as a result of a unique partnership between National Veteran Service Organizations and HUD

This directory is designed to increase the knowledge of and participation in the wide variety of HUD homeless assistance programs and services for veterans and other individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless

CONTACT INFORMATION FOR HOUSING COUNSELING ASSISTANCEIn addition to its special focus on veterans

who are homeless, HUDVET is also a source of information on other HUD and related Federal programs, such those to combat domestic violence, enhance community and economic development, aid runaway youth, and increase affordable housing for senior citizens and Americans with disabilities

CONTACT INFORMATION FOR HOUSING COUNSELING ASSISTANCEThe Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) has

founded a National Call Center for Homeless Veterans hotline to ensure that homeless Veterans or Veterans at-risk for homelessness have free, 24/7 access to trained counselors. (1-877-424-3838)

EDUCATION BENEFITSEducation programs are affected by the

members contract and time servedAll members should check with their

education center to learn more about their entitlement to education benefits as early as possible

There are several programs administered by the VA to provide financial assistance to veterans and service members for educational benefits

EDUCATION BENEFITSThis includes enrollment in degree programs,

entrepreneurship training, technical and vocational programs, correspondence courses, and on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs, flight and high-tech training, certain entrance exams and licensing and certification tests

Programs must be approved, usually by a State-approving agency, for VA purposes, before VA education program benefits are paid

EDUCATION BENEFITSHonorable discharge and how it relates to

educational benefits:MGIB requires an honorable discharge and

VEAP requires a discharge other-than-dishonorable to be eligible for the education benefits

EDUCATION BENEFITSPost 9/11 GI bill (Chapter 33):

Provides financial support for education and housing to individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001 or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days

Individuals MUST have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill

To be eligible for 100% of benefits, an individual must have served an aggregate of 36 months of active duty service, or have been discharged for a service-connected disability after 30 days of continuous service

EDUCATION BENEFITSTransfer of Post 9/11 benefits to dependents:

For the first time in history, service members who meet certain requirements and are enrolled in the Post 9/11 GI Bill program can transfer unused benefits to their dependents.

EDUCATION BENEFITSMGIB is available to those who enlist in the US

Armed ForcesUnder this GI Bill, active duty members enroll by

paying $100 per month for 12 months and are then entitled to receive a monthly education benefit once they have completed a minimum service obligation

VEAP is available if elected to make contributions from military pay to participate in this program

VEAP can be used for a degree, certificate, correspondence, apprenticeship/on-the-job training, flight training.

FEDERAL AID PROGRAMSAuthorized under the Higher Education ActThe federal student aid programs include grants,

loans and work-study programsThis program plays a central role in supporting

postsecondary education by providing money for college to eligible students and families

The program provides information on the process of obtaining aid, financial aid applications along with the rules and regulations, student loan accounts and technology utilized in obtaining financial aid

OTHER EDUCATION PROGRAMSThe base education center or office includes

professional counselors who advise military, civil service personnel, retirees and family members on educational opportunities and processes

Those processes can include looking for undergraduate, graduate, or certificate programs in the civilian world or looking for alternative options through military programs

Programs include a variety of services to include college-level testing, professional military education, veterans’ benefits, tuition assistance, financial aid, deferments and distance learning

HEALTHCAREVeterans Affairs Coverage:

Under the Combat Veteran Authority, the VA offers Combat Veterans who were discharged from active duty on or after January 28, 2003 enhanced enrollment placement for five years after the date they leave the service

HEALTHCAREThe member may also be eligible for

enhanced enrollment if they were an activated Reservist or member of the National Guard who served on active duty in a theater of combat operation after November 11, 1998 and left the service under any condition other than dishonorable

If service members enroll with VA under the Combat Veteran Authority, they may be able to keep enrollment eligibility even after the five year period ends

TRANSITIONAL HEALTHCARETransitional healthcare

TRICARE-like benefits for a limited time (180 days) during which service members and their eligible family members may enroll in TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) or other medical insurance programs

Service members will pay quarterly premiums and deductibles for care

When service members leave active duty they are eligible for TAMP

Transitional health care is not an automatic TRICARE benefit

TRANSITIONAL HEALTHCARETo be eligible for the 180 days transitional

medical and dental benefits, the family member’s sponsor must be:Involuntarily separated from active duty with an

SPD code that designates benefitsReservist separated from active duty after serving

more than 30 days in support of contingency operation

Separated from active duty after being involuntarily retained in support or contingency operation

Member separated who voluntarily remained on active duty for one year or less in support contingency operation

TRANSITIONAL HEALTHCARESponsors and family members enrolled in

TRICARE Prime will be automatically disenrolled with the sponsor separates from active duty

To continue TRICARE Prime during the transitional health care period, sponsors and family members must contact their TRICARE regional managed care support contractor, or local TRICARE service center, and re-enroll in TRICARE Prime

TRANSITIONAL HEALTHCAREDental coverage during TAMP:

Dental care provided in military dental treatment facilities is on a space-available basis

However, space-available dental care is very limited

VA HEALTH ADMINISTRATIONVA has the overall responsibility to provide

information and administration of benefits to veterans

There are specific timelines for services and benefits

Compensation is a benefit paid to a veteran because of injuries or diseases that happened while on active duty, or were made worse by active military service

VA HEALTH ADMINISTRATIONThe service of the veteran must have been

terminated through separation or discharge under conditions other than dishonorable

VA Disability Compensation is tax freeVA pension is a benefit paid to veterans with

low income who are permanently and totally disabled, or are age 65 and older, if they have 90 days or more of active service, at least one day of which was during a period of war

VA VET CENTERVET centers are known for their quality

readjustment counseling services provided in a caring manner to assist veterans and their family members toward a successful post-war adjustment in or near their respective communities

The VET Center also offers bereavement counseling

VET Centers serve veterans and their families by providing a continuum of quality care that adds value for veterans, families and communities

VA VET CENTERCare includes professional readjustment

counseling, community education, outreach to special populations, and the brokering of services with community agencies

The Vet Centers provide a key access link between the veteran and other services in the US Department of Veterans Affairs

STATE AND LOCAL HEALTHCAREState departments of health promote public

health through policy initiatives, research and service programs

Often, a state’s public health administration is combined with the provision of social services

“Health” generally encompasses behavioral and environmental health as well as physical well-being, illness and communicable diseases

STATE AND LOCAL HEALTHCAREVisitors to state health sites may find directories of

hospitals and nursing homes, listings of licensed health practitioners, health warning, information about federally-funded programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, vital statistics, and reports on specific health issues

Social service websites may include information and programs dealing with welfare, early childhood development, foster parenting, poverty, juvenile delinquency, sex offenders, aging, public assistance, and rehabilitation

There may also be a listing of private social service agencies

YET MORE HEALTHCARETRICARE:

TRICARE is the DOD’s managed health care program for active duty members, active duty families, retirees and their families, and other eligible beneficiaries

Pays a percentage of allowed charges for covered health care services provided by authorized providers, after the member meets the yearly deductible

Has a catastrophic cap which is the maximum paid out of pocket for covered services

YET MORE HEALTHCAREDelta Dental contact information:

Separating service members shall also be made aware that dental care insurance under the DELTA Dental plan does not continue after separation

Dental benefits are available to former active duty and Reservists, however family members are not entitled to dental benefits

YET MORE HEALTHCARERetirees Health care is not an automatic

TRICARE benefitSponsors must make sure that they and their

family members are enrolled in DEERSSponsors and family members enrolled in

TRICARE Prime will be automatically disenrolled when the sponsor separates from active duty

To continue TRICARE Prime, sponsors and family members must contact their TRICARE regional managed care support contractor or local service center and re-enroll

VA HEALTH CAREVA provides a broad spectrum of medical,

surgical, readjustment counseling and rehabilitative care to veterans

VA provides a Medical Benefits Package, a standard enhanced benefits plan available to all enrolled veterans

This plan emphasizes preventative and primary care, and offers a full range of outpatient and inpatient services within the VA health care system

VA HEALTH CAREVA maintains an annual enrollment system to

manage the provision of quality hospital and outpatient medical care and treatment to all enrolled veterans

A priority system ensures that veterans with service-connected disabilities and those below the low-income threshold are able to be enrolled in VA’s health care system

All veterans are potentially eligibleVeteran’s health care facilities are not just for men

onlyVA offers full-service health care to women veterans

VA DENTAL CAREThere are dental eligibility criteria which in

some cases are extensive and in other cases very limited

The VA website provides fact sheets on VA Medical care and Dental treatment

CONTINUED HEALTH CARE BENEFITSTemporary health care is available with the

Continued Health Care Benefits Program (CHCBP)Separating service members are eligible to

purchase continued health insurance for a period of 18 months, including pre-existing conditions coverage

This program is premium-based health care providing medical coverage to a select group of former military beneficiaries

It is similar to, but not part of, TRICAREThe program extends health care coverage to

individuals who lose military benefits

CONTINUED HEALTH CARE BENEFITSTime frames to obtain this coverage:

Individuals must enroll and pay premiums to the CHCBP within 60 days after separation from active duty or loss of eligibility for military health care

VETERANS’ GROUP LIFE INSURANCE (VGLI)Service members’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) will

continue to cover the member for the first 120 days after separation

Members will be given the opportunity to convert SGLI to VGLI

VGLI is a program, which allows veterans to convert SGLI coverage to a renewable term insurance policy

The VGLI coverage amount cannot exceed the amount of SGLI at the time of separation from service

VGLI policy holders can convert their VGLI to an individual commercial life insurance policy at any time

SGLISGLI provides two options upon release from

serviceConverting full-time SGLI coverage to term

insurance under the VGLI program or convert to a permanent plan of insurance with on of the participating commercial insurance companies

SGLI disability extension allows those who are totally disabled at time of discharge to retain SGLI coverage they had in service at no cost for up to two years

TSGLIThe traumatic Injury Protection Under

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (TSGLI) program is a rider to SGLI

The TSGLI rider provides for payment to service members who are severely injured (on or off duty) as the result of a traumatic event and suffer a loss that qualifies for payment under TSGLI

TSGLIEvery member who has SGLI also has TSGLI effective

December 1, 2005TSGLI coverage is automatic for those insured under

basic SGLI and cannot be declinedThis benefit is also provided retroactively for members

who incurred severe losses as a result of a traumatic injury between October 7, 2001 and December 1, 2005 if the loss was the direct result of injuries incurred in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom

TSGLI payments are designed to help traumatically injured service members and their families with financial burdens associated with recovering from severe injury

FSGLIFamily Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance

(FSGLI) is a program extended to the spouses and unmarried dependent children of members insured under the SGLI program

FSGLI provides life insurance protection onlyIt does not provide disability or other

supplementary benefitsFSGLI is a service members’ benefit and the

member is the beneficiary of the policyIn addition, FSGLI has no cash, loan, paid-up or

extended insurance values and does not pay dividends

S-DVIThe Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance (S-

DVI) program was established to meet the insurance needs of certain veterans with service connected disabilities

S-DVI is available in a variety of permanent plans as well as term insurance

S-DVIIndividuals can apply if they meet the

following criteriaReleased from active duty under other than

dishonorable conditions on or after April 25 1951

Rated for a service-connected disabilityIn good health except for any service-

connected conditionsNeed to apply within 2 years from the date VA

grants their new service-connected disability

VMLIThe Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance

(VMLI) program provides mortgage life insurance to severely disabled veterans and service members

It is designed to pay off home mortgages or disabled veterans and service members in the event of their death

Only veterans and service members who have received a Specially Adapted Housing Grant from VA are eligible for VMLI

INSURANCEVA life insurance programs were developed

to provide insurance benefits for veterans and service members who may not be able to get insurance from private companies because of the extra risks involved in military service, or a service connected disability

During their transition, the member needs to do research on Veterans Group Life Insurance and others in order to select the plans most appropriate

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENTCareful financial planning is the key to managing a

limited incomeMilitary OneSource can offer assistance with

financial managementTSP is a retirement planThe purpose of TSP is to provide retirement incomeThe amount contributed and the earnings

attributable to the contributions belong to the member, even if they do not serve 20 or more years ordinarily necessary to receive uniformed services retired pay

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENTSurvivor Benefit Plan (SBP) is a form of life

insurance for retired paySBP protects eligible survivors against the complete

loss of retired payThe member and the spouse are equally responsible

for the SBP decisionThe spouse will be required to sign the SBP election

form and should be included in the decision making process

If divorced, review the divorce decreeFailure to accept or decline coverage will result in

automatic coverage at the full retirement pay amount

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENTMilitary vs. civilian pay and benefits

Members of nonprofit associations that support military members contend that a pay gap of around 3.4 percent still exists and are backing legislation to remedy this

Basic pay for entry level pay for the military compares somewhat favorably to entry level positions for those entering the workforce right out of high school or college

However, due to the military’s time in grade promotion system and lack of performance bonuses, a good performer in the private sector will likely move ahead of a military member in compensation quickly

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENTIf the service member is considering

separating from the military prior to retirement, it is recommended that they carefully compare current benefits to what is available in the civilian sector

SEPARATION PAYSeparation pay eligibility and amounts are

determined by the type of separationSeparation program designator (SPD) codes

identify members eligible for separation payWhile may SPD codes dually confer

separation pay and transition benefits, there are many SPD codes that confer only separation pay

The actual amount of separation pay is computed by the local financial office

SEPARATION PAYPersonnel medically separated for a disability

incurred in a combat zone or from combat-related operations may be entitled to an enhanced disability separation pay

For more information contact Personnel office

UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATIONUnemployment compensation for ex-service

members is referred to as UCXMembers who are separating or, in some

cases, retiring from active duty may qualify for unemployment compensation

For more information, contact your local unemployment office in the area in which you will be residing.

GENERAL MONEY MANAGEMENTMoney management encompasses all

monetary assets, including:Cash on handChecking accountsSavings accountsMoney market accountsOther short term investment vehiclesLonger term saving instruments

GENERAL MONEY MANAGEMENTThe goal is to maximize interest earnings and

to minimize fees while keeping funds safe and readily available for:Living expensesEmergenciesSaving Investment opportunities

GENERAL MONEY MANAGEMENTBudgeting a balance sheet, or a net worth

statement, describes an individual’s or family’s financial condition on a specified date (often Jan 1) by showing:AssetsLiabilitiesNet worth

It provides a current status report and includes information on what is owned (assets), what is owed (liabilities) and what the net result would be if all debts were paid off

GENERAL MONEY MANAGEMENTA cash flow or income and expense statement

lists and summarizes income and expense transactions that have taken place over a specific period of time such as a month or year

Tools are available to assist with developing a budget

Individuals can visit FFSC and meet with financial counselors or can access financial planning on line

GENERAL MONEY MANAGEMENTDebt management is a systematic way to help

individuals if they are in debt to become debt freeIt involves spreading the repayments over a

period of time and stopping creditors from taking legal action

This plan is based on income and expenditureIt is not necessarily for individuals who get into

unmanageable debt only by reckless spending, but also because of some unavoidable reasons, like removal from a job, relocation or separation

GENERAL MONEY MANAGEMENTDebt management programs, typically

offered through FFSC have been designed and equipped to assist to help individuals make debt repayments in a suitable manner

These programs are not always accessible after transition

PERSONAL SAVINGS/INVESTMENTSSavings banks and credit unions offer savings

accounts designed to help individuals reach short and long-term financial goals

The four most common types of investments are”BondsCertificate of depositsStocksMutual funds

RESERVE AFFILLATIONFor all enlistees, if this is the member’s initial

enlistment, must serve a total of 8 yearsAny part of that service not served on active

duty must be served in a reserve component unless they are sooner discharged

Members must satisfy the obligation by becoming a ready reserve in:Selected Reserves, orIndividual Ready Reserves

VAVA has the overall responsibility to provide

information and administration of benefits to veterans

Information on VA benefits is covered in depth at the veterans’ benefits briefing

Compensation and pension benefits delivery at discharge (BDD) is offered at certain locations throughout the US

This program allows veterans’ self indentified disability claims to be processed 6 months prior to separation

VAQuick start allows service members the

opportunity to submit an application for service-connected compensation while still on Active Duty

Eligible veterans may obtain loans guaranteed by VA to purchase or refinance homes, condominiums and manufactured homes

VA home loans feature a competitive interest rate and lower down payment, or, if the lender agrees, no down payment at all

VAVeterans Vocational Rehabilitation and

Employment Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment is an employment-oriented program intended for veterans who have a combined service-connected disability rating of 20% or more and for certain service members awaiting discharge due to a medical condition

A veteran with 10% combined rating may apply for benefits but must meet additional entitlement criteria

VR&E helps individuals prepare for, find and keep suitable employment

VAEmployment with VA:

The Secretary of VA may give preference to qualified covered veterans for employment in the Department as Veterans’ Benefits Counselors and Veterans’ Claims Examiners

DTAPDisabled Transition Assistance Program (DTAP)

presentations are generally group sessions that include a comprehensive discussion of VA’s Vocational Rehab and Employment program and educational/vocational counseling available to separating service members and veterans

Usually the VA regional office VR&E officer will coordinate DTAP sessions for those service members who are hospitalized, convalescing or receiving outpatient treatment for a disability and who are unable to attend a DTAP group session

DTAPThis briefing is specifically for anyone who

has or believes they might have a service-connected disability

When in doubt, you are encouraged to attend

VA DISABILITY BENEFITSIt is important for the service member to know

that the department of Veterans Affairs is responsible for ensuring that disabled veterans receive the care, support and earned recognition

DTAP is an integral component of transition because it helps the individual make informed decisions about their disability as it relates to the VA

It is intended to facilitate the expeditious delivery of vocational rehabilitation services to those eligible by assisting them in filing an application for vocational rehab benefits

BDD AND QUICK STARTBDD is offered to accelerate receipt of VA

disability benefits, with a goal of providing benefits within 60 days after release or discharge from active duty

BDD allows a service member with at least 60 days, but no more than 180 days, remaining on active duty to file a VA disability claim prior to separation

BDD requires a minimum of 60 days to allow sufficient time to complete the medical examination process prior to separation

If the member is closer than 60 days, they can submit a Quick Start claim

STATE VETERAN BENEFITSMany states offer veterans benefitsThese benefits may include educational

grants and scholarships, special exemptions or discounts on fees and taxes, home loans, veteran’s homes, free hunting and fishing privileges and more

Each state manages its own benefit programs

TWO YEAR COMMISARRY PRIVILEGESIndividuals who are separated with an SPD code

that conveys TAP benefits (includes honorable involuntary separatees & those separating voluntarily under the Hubbard Act) have eligibility for two-year for commissary and exchange privileges

Those individuals who separated and retired who elect to live in a foreign country my lose commissary and/or base exchange privileges due to treaties, SOFA agreements or military base agreements between the US and host country

LEGAL ASSISTANCEMilitary installations have legal assistance offices

available to assist members with legal matters such as:Will preparationPower of attorneyReview of most contractsDebit/credit problemsLandlord/tenant issuesFamily lawTax law and estate planning

All of these services are a non cost benefit of active duty service

LEGAL ASSISTANCERetirees can use the installation legal and

financial offices on a space-available basis, and depending on the location, may have to wait to see a representative

The installation legal and financial offices will specify the services available

It is helpful to call as far in advance as possibleRetirees residing overseas may have

restrictions on privileges based upon SOFA agreement

POST GOVERNMENT EMPLOYMENTIt is mandatory that all DOD personnel who

leave military service for the private sector must be given guidance on the relevant pre-post-employment restrictions as part of their out-processing

Service members can not decline this counseling

It is required prior to separationAll separating and retiring service members

are to be referred to legal for this briefing from an ethics official