Voluntary Separation (Do you have any advice on utilizing this program?)

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 May 2015 00:58:56 -0400

Voluntary Separation is still in effect. I would like to utilize this program. My ETS date is 26 Jun 16, so I have about a year left not counting my leave days I have saved. How early is too early to start planning? I'm going to TAPs early July to get that out of the way. And I already have a job set up. So what do I need to know? What are your tips/tricks to not get the paperwork bogged down?

Response by COL Charles Williams made May 27 at 2015 1:05 AM

COL Charles Williams — Wed, 27 May 2015 01:05:36 -0400

Never too early!!!! Focus on you, and making you look as good as you can! You need a good resume and cover letter; resume for civilian and Federal (USAJOBS) if you are interested. Getting a job is also a lot about networking; who you know and your reputation. Good Luck!!!

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2015 12:14 PM

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 May 2015 12:14:18 -0400

you should be in SFLTAP now! congress mandates 18 months out from your ETS date. you are already getting close to being behind the power curb on this. just to clarify, its not voluntary separation in your case; sounds more like ETS to me. things to think about.

1. do you have a plan?
2. are you getting out to get out, or do you have something lined up already?
3. where are you going to live, and how are you going to pay for it?
4. what job are you thinking about and have you researched it already and made contacts?
5. are you trying to go to school? if that's the case you may be able to get your commander to sign off on a school drop, remember commanders recommendations are up to 90 days for school drops... nothing is ever guaranteed. its up to the commander.
6. have you talked to your leadership. your PSG is a wealth of knowledge on this and you should ask him/her to sit down with you and have a counseling session.

these are important questions that you should be asking yourself, I have seen time and again soldiers just get out of the military and have nothing to go home to. and 6 months later try to come back in. Guess what the Army is on a no reentry policy for Soldiers that have exited the army and want to come back as of right now. you should talk with as many people that you can and ensure that you are making a sound decision. to answer your final question, you will be the only cause for paperwork to get bogged down. make sure everything is updated and accurate to the best of your knowledge and the process will go smoothly. best of luck!

Response by Sgt Drea Garcia made May 28 at 2015 8:47 AM

Sgt Drea Garcia — Thu, 28 May 2015 08:47:59 -0400

It's never to early! I recommend taking alot of transitioning classes like how to write a resume, how to translate service skills into civilian skills, and be prepared on how to conduct interviews. These are all very helpful classes. Good luck!