Introduction
-The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is a partnership among Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Labor (DOL) and Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA). This program is mandated by public law to provide separating/retiring members and their families with information, resources and services to ensure a successful transition to the civilian sector.
Pre-Separation Counseling
-The law requires military members to attend this session at least 90 days before separation/retirement Whether you're retiring, going back to school, or looking for a new career, a successful transition requires planning and resources. Therefore, the first step in the transition process is to complete the congressionally mandated pre-separation counseling. By law, all transitioning military personnel are required to receive pre-separation counseling NOT LATER THAN 90 days prior to separation. During pre-separation counseling, you will be introduced to the DD Form 2648, Pre-separation Counseling Checklist, and assisted in its completion. The counseling will provide you information on the various benefits, rights, and services that can help you identify your needs and develop a personal plan for securing the assistance to meet those needs. See the Pre-separation Timeline to get an idea what needs to be accomplished.
Transition Assistance PROGRAM (tap) workshop
-The DOL 3-day workshop is designed to prepare members to conduct a successful job search. The workshop covers all aspects of the job search: skills assessment, career exploration/preferences, resume writing and interviewing techniques. Lajes offers the TAP workshop on a quarterly basis. Call the A&FRC at 535-4138 sign up for the next class. Spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend.
VA Benefit Briefing
-The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is responsible for ensuring veterans obtain the care, support, and recognition they've earned through their service in the military. During a benefit briefing, a knowledgeable VA representative will explain the various benefits service members may be eligible to receive. Benefits discussed include disability compensation, health care, education and training opportunities, home loans, and life insurance options. This briefing is provided in conjunction with the DoL Employment Workshop; however, it may be offered at additional times. At Lajes AB, we schedule a quarterly VA teleconference and will have a VA representative come to Lajes for the VA briefing at least once every 6 months. Again, call 535-4138 to sign up for the next VA briefing.
VA Pre-Discharge Program
- A joint Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) program that affords service members the opportunity to file claims for disability compensation up to 180 days prior to separation or retirement from active duty or full time National Guard or Reserve duty (Titles 10 and 32).
Disabled Transition Assistance Program (DTAP)
- Service members separating or retiring due to a service connected disability, or being medically discharged, or suspect they have a service-connected disability are strongly encouraged to request DTAP assistance. The DTAP provides specialized information about the Department of Veterans Affairs' Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program, eligibility, and how to apply for benefits. The primary focus of the VR&E is to help veterans with service-connected disabilities become suitably employed, maintain employment, or achieve independence in daily living. The program offers a number of services to help each eligible disabled veteran reach his or her rehabilitation goal.
Transition Resources
- The Computer Resource Center and Discovery Room provide access to the internet and other tools to assist with resume preparation and other important transition information. TurboTAP is the official DOD Transition Assistance Program website which provides online resources to service members before, during, and after transition.
BASIC FINANCIAL PLANNING FOR TRANSITION
- Basic Financial Planning for Transition (Insert Document)
BUSINESS INFORMATION
- Small Business Administration (SBA)
- State Veteran Affairs Offices (State Benefits and Points of Contact)
PRIOR TO SEPARATION/RETIREMENT
- Preseparation Guide
- Department of Veteran Affair
- Transition Assistance Program (TAP) -Turbo TAP)
JOB SEARCH ASSISTANCE
- Bureau of Statistics (Occupational Handbook, Unemployment, etc.)
- Career One Stop
- USA Jobs
- Military Home Front
- Miltary.com
- Veterans Success
- Military Spouse
- Military Spouse Corporate Career Network
- Careers in National Defense
