Posted on Aug 4, 2015
How many months out did you start your transition process, 12-24 months is the recommended?
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I'm doing volunteer work with the Airman and Family Readiness Center at Robins AFB. I'm finding that many members are waiting until they are inside of six months to begin the transition process.
Posted in these groups: 
Transition
Transition
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 31
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I think that for 4 and out....6 months is enough time, especially if plans for college etc. For more than 4 but not retiring, 12 months would be an ok timeline. For those with 20+, I STRONGLY encourage TAPS at roughly 18-24 months out, then again 8-12 months out. The individual should already be working on a civilianized resume by the 24 months out time frame....I have been working my resume since the 24-30 month out timeframe (had actually worked it over even earlier for some part time work, but got serious with it at that time). My unit kinda screwed me...my plan was TAPS at 22 months out (got that), then taps at the 10 month out mark....had to cancel due to inspections and staffing (their problem turned into my problem). 2nd TAPS will be done at the 4.5-5.5 months out point (hope I don't miss any deadlines/windows that are 6 months!!).
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TSgt Julie Miller
I found the TAPS program I went through to be weak. Yeah they showed us a bit about how to contact prospective employers, how to dress for interviews, etc... I would've liked to have had a lot more information on VA benefits and how to apply for them, rather than a handout and a Power Point.
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Maj Chris Nelson
When I went to the first one, I went to the general TAPS course...most of the people there were the 4-8 years and out. I am next slotted to go to the "Senior TAPS" or "Executive TAPS".... for Senior NCO/FGO....not sure, but have been told it is different.
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I think that answer varies depending on the situation, which is why I liked that they were going to the three tracked TAP process. Some folks will just not have a lot of notice, such as in the case of a RIF, so with them it will be just start as soon as you can. For others that have more pre-planned departure (separation or retirement) then how soon to start would depend on what you want to do. If you are looking at starting a business (Like I did) then starting at least 2 years out would be good. If you are looking at going to school than 1-2 years depending on how much you need to do to get ready (applying to schools, taking tests like the ACT, GRE, Etc, arranging for financial aid, etc). If you are going to be working for someone else then 6 months out might be OK, generally.
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At my organization, at 6 months, the service member is expected to be relieved of all duties and be focused only on transitioning from the service. This means no PT, no duty roster, no training, nothing but accountability. This is the time to get travel, transportation, future employment, etc. together.
At the 24 month mark they are expected to start the medical process. At 12 months: ACAP.
At the 24 month mark they are expected to start the medical process. At 12 months: ACAP.
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