ATTACHMENT A - TAP Process.pdf

This document is an informational graphic detailing the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) established under Title 10, Chapter 58, which provides comprehensive transition support for military service members separating or retiring from active duty.

The program operates across two statutory sections: Section 1142 addresses pre-separation counseling activities, while Section 1144 covers transition assistance services. Transition activities may commence as early as 24 months prior to retirement or no later than 365 days before separation. The program consists of five sequential components: (1) Individualized Initial Counseling (IC) covering personal self-assessment and Individual Transition Plan development, required no later than 365 days prior to separation; (2) DoD Transition Day, a one-day mandatory session addressing managing transitions, Military Occupational Code crosswalks, and financial planning; (3) VA Benefits and Services, a one-day briefing exploring earned benefits and application procedures; (4) Service Member Elected Tracks, a mandatory two-day selection from four options—DOL Employment Workshop, DoD Education Workshop, SBA Entrepreneurship Workshop, or DOL Vocational Workshop—providing employment overview and best practices; and (5) DOL One-Day Capstone, occurring no later than 90 days before separation, during which commanders verify achievement of Career Readiness Standards and viable Individual Transition Plans. Service members not meeting requirements are referred through a Warm Handover process to appropriate agencies for additional assistance, and benefit statements must be provided no later than 30 days prior to transition.