Military OneSource’s Transitioning Veterans Consultation

Whether you are separating after your first-term enlistment or retiring with more than 20 years of service, transitioning from the military to civilian life can feel overwhelming. Military OneSource is here to help you navigate the resources, benefits and programs available to help you have a successful transition.

The  transitioning veterans specialty consultation is designed to help you identify goals, learn about benefits available to you, and gather a range of resources to meet your needs. Sessions are tailored to meet your unique needs and are available by phone or video.

Navigating military-to-civilian transition

The Defense Department Transition Assistance Program is mandatory for service members who have served 180 continuous days or more on active duty, including National Guard and reservists transitioning or upon release from active duty.

The transitioning veterans specialty consultation supplements the standard program to answer your specific questions. It consists of a series of 45-minute consultations with a professionally trained consultant. Topics include:

1. Setting goals. In your first session, a consultant will work with you to outline your transition goals. This allows your consultant to tailor the following sessions and provide key resources and information to fit your needs.
2. Reviewing benefits. Veterans are eligible for various benefits, and you may want to learn more about which you qualify for and when to apply. Your consultant can assist in identifying major benefits, including health, dental, vision and life insurance. You’ll learn about other benefits to help with your final move and relocation support, terminal/transition leave and installation privileges after separation. Your consultant will help explain these benefits and connect you to the appropriate agencies to access them.
3. VA assistance. Although service members are responsible for facilitating the transition of their medical care and records from the Defense Department to the Department of Veterans Affairs, your consultant can direct you to the right resources if you have questions. This process includes the final physical, how to connect with veterans service organizations to file disability claims and an overview on using the VA system.
4. Exploring education opportunities. Attending college is a popular path for many service members after leaving the military. If higher education is on your mind, your consultant can assist you with identifying areas of study, applying to college and understanding financial aid, such as the GI Bill, Pell Grants, scholarships and loans.
5. Prepping for civilian workforce. In this session, your consultant will help you identify career goals and examine the employment markets applicable to you. You can also get resources for building a civilian resume and practice interviewing skills. Depending on your needs, extra sessions may be recommended to help with things like resume writing and employment readiness.
6. Online resources. In your last session, your consultant will recap progress made and answer any final questions. There will also be an opportunity to go over VA online resources.

Who is eligible?

Eligible Military OneSource participants include active duty, Guard and reserve in the process of transitioning from military to civilian life. Service members should be within 365 days from expiration – term of service/end of active service, or within 365 days post-expiration – term of service/ end of active service.

Call 800-342-9647 or start a live chat to schedule an appointment with a transitioning veterans consultant. OCONUS/International? View calling options.