Has anyone ever had to get a memorandum drawn up to work while on retirement leave?

SFC Vernon McNabb — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 08:40:18 -0500

I have an opportunity to work in a new career while still on retirement leave. I was told I would need a memorandum for waiver. I assume this memo needs to be signed by the same individual who approved my terminal leave. Has anyone seen an example of what this memo would need? I can probably make up the body of the letter, but I would like references also to put into the memo that shows that I "can" be approved for employment while still on terminal leave.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jan 21 at 2018 8:54 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 08:54:23 -0500

When I retired from active duty I needed no such letter to work while on leave, or terminal leave. I would simply call your previous commands outorocessing center, they can tell you the facts for today. I retired in 2011 so things may have changed. Thank you for your service.

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Jan 21 at 2018 9:23 AM

LTC Kevin B. — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 09:23:04 -0500

Here's a previous thread that covers similar content.

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/can-i-start-my-new-job-while-on-transition-leave

Can I start my new job while on transition leave? | RallyPoint

So, I believe I have nailed down how my early voluntary separation will play out in terms of taking leave. I was told that it is not allowed for a Soldier to start working while on transition leave (unless it is a Federal Civil Service Position). So, am I not allowed to start a private sector job, not related at all with the government, while on transition leave?

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made Jan 21 at 2018 10:27 AM

1SG Steven Stankovich — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 10:27:05 -0500

SFC Vernon McNabb, do a little research because rules vary for federal employment while on leave, the field you going into, etc. From personal experience, I started my contract job while still on terminal leave. Check out the link from LTC Kevin B. as well. There’s good information in there. Good luck!!!

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Jan 21 at 2018 2:58 PM

SFC Vernon McNabb — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 14:58:35 -0500

Thanks for all the responses. The most helpful was the quoting of 5 USC: §5534a; which clearly states I am authorized. I also found this little tidbit on miltary.com which states a servicemember can work while on terminal leave; however, it is not authorized while on PTDY status. [5th bullet comment]
https://www.military.com/money/retirement/military-retirement/transition-leave-overview.html

Transition Leave Overview

Transition leave allows you to leave the military a little earlier, but it's important to learn how exactly to go about it.