Posted on Jun 26, 2021
SPC Petroleum Supply Specialist
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Backstory: my husband passed unexpectedly last month in a wreck, he was national guard and we have a 2 year old. I was told I could request a hardship discharge, but no one could give me any other info. My 6 is up either way in January if not able to get the hardship!
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SGT Robert Wager
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I am so sorry for your loss. I would start with a meeting with your chaplain. I am sure if that is what you want/need they can walk you through the process.
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SFC Retention Operations Nco
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With the amount of time it can take to process voluntary separations you are probably better off just waiting it out. It is possible to get a voluntary separation submitted, signed and approved in a month or two, but that's when you dig into the reg and walk it through yourself. Even then, you're usually going to get it approved for 90 days later. So, you walk a separation packet through in a month, you get out 90 days later and you've only saved yourself two months after all that work and headache
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CWO3 Us Marine
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Sorry for your loss. S1 will process, and your COC should help. The 1SG and your NCOIC would be a great help. See the Chaplain as well.
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How would I go about requesting a hardship discharge?
SFC Casey O'Mally
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As MAJ Ken Landgren mentioned, Family Care Plan may work for you. Absolutely pursue the Hardship, as well, but if you (and your Commander) are motivated, lack of a FCP can have you out of the Army in 60 days.

But.... keep in mind that a rapid transition gives you no time at all to actually TRANSITION. Remaining until ETS and using these next 6 months to make the most out of SFL-TAP and set yourself up for success as a civilian is a VERY smart play if you can do it.
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Cpl Vic Burk
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Sorry to hear of your loss. If I were in your shoes I would go see the Chaplain. I saw them do things I didn't think possible when I was in the Corps. No matter what you know the governments old saying, "Hurry up and wait!"
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SSgt Christophe Murphy
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I would talk to your S1 and Chaplain. They will be able to get you the answers you need
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Sgt Field Radio Operator
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SPC (Join to see) I am sorry for your loss.

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LTC Mark Ensign
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I agree with the earlier recommendations to discuss your options with your COC and Chaplain.
If a hardship discharge is what you need, obtaining one is not at all unreasonable.
That said, also consider not immediately dismissing the possibility of continuing in the military.
With a solid Family Care Plan in place, I have seen many single parent Soldiers continue to serve successfully.
My deepest condolences for your loss and the best to you whatever you decide.
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SPC Member
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AR 135-178. Talk to Chaplain, PSG, and submit request through CoC.
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CPT Andrew Wright
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Use your Chain of Command and/or talk to your Unit Administrator about transferring to the IRR. About the only paperwork needed is a 4651-R and some signatures. Best of Luck!
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