Transitioning Out of the Military: TAP and SkillBridge
Updated July 2026
Leaving the military is a process that starts up to a year before your separation date. Using the transition programs well — especially TAP and SkillBridge — can mean walking out the door straight into a civilian job. Here is the roadmap.
Start early — up to 12 months out
The best transitions start 12 months before separation (24 months before retirement). Early on you decide your path (job, school, or business), build a resume, and line up benefits like the GI Bill and VA health care. The later you start, the fewer options you have.
The Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
TAP is the mandatory program that prepares you for civilian life. It covers resume writing, job searching, translating your military skills, VA benefits, and financial planning, with tracks for employment, education, or entrepreneurship (the "Boots to Business" track). Complete it on time — do not treat it as a checkbox.
SkillBridge — intern in your last 180 days
DoD SkillBridge lets you work a civilian internship, apprenticeship, or training program with an industry employer during your final 180 days of service — while still receiving your military pay and benefits. Many members convert these into full-time job offers. Participation must be approved by your first commander in the grade of O-4 or above, based on mission needs, and cannot start earlier than 180 days before you separate.
Line up your benefits before you leave
- File for VA disability (you can start before separation via BDD — Benefits Delivery at Discharge).
- Enroll in VA health care and understand your GI Bill options.
- Know your final pay: terminal leave, and any separation or retirement pay.
Don't leave money on the table
Review the full benefits list before you go — from VR&E (Chapter 31) job training to the VA home loan and state benefits in your state. Many are easiest to claim right at separation.
Frequently asked questions
Is TAP mandatory?
Yes. The Transition Assistance Program is required for most separating and retiring service members, and it is designed to begin about a year before you leave. Starting early gives you the most options.
Does SkillBridge pay you?
You continue to receive your normal military pay and benefits during SkillBridge — the civilian employer typically does not pay you. It runs during your last 180 days of service and often leads to a full-time job offer.
When can I start SkillBridge?
No earlier than 180 days before your separation date, and the program cannot exceed 180 days. It requires approval from your first commander in the pay grade of O-4 or above, based on unit mission requirements.
When should I start preparing to leave the military?
Ideally 12 months before separation, or 24 months before a retirement. That gives you time to complete TAP, do a SkillBridge, file VA claims, and line up a job or school before your last day.