Transitioning Out of the Military: 5 Ways to Leave the Army
The decision to leave the Army can be a complex and challenging one, especially after dedicating years of service to the military. Whether you’re approaching the end of your contract or seeking a new path, understanding the various options available to you is crucial. In this article, we’ll explore five ways to leave the Army, each with its unique requirements, benefits, and considerations.
1. Expiration of Term of Service (ETS)
The most straightforward way to leave the Army is to wait for your contract to expire. When you enlist, you agree to serve for a specified period, typically 3-6 years. Once your contract is up, you’re free to leave the Army and return to civilian life.
Key Considerations:
- You’ll need to ensure you’ve fulfilled all your contractual obligations.
- You may be eligible for separation pay, depending on your length of service and type of discharge.
- You’ll receive an honorable discharge, which is essential for accessing veterans’ benefits.
2. Medical Discharge
If you’re injured or develop a medical condition that prevents you from performing your duties, you may be eligible for a medical discharge. This process involves a medical evaluation board (MEB) review, which assesses your fitness for duty.
Key Considerations:
- You’ll need to provide extensive medical documentation to support your claim.
- The MEB review process can take several months to a year or more.
- You may be eligible for medical retirement benefits, depending on the severity of your condition.
3. Administrative Separation
Administrative separation, also known as “admin sep,” is a process that allows the Army to separate soldiers who don’t meet performance or conduct standards. This can be initiated by your command or by you, if you’re seeking to leave the Army due to personal or professional reasons.
Key Considerations:
- You’ll need to meet with your command and discuss the reasons for your separation.
- The separation process can take several months, during which time you’ll be assigned to a transition unit.
- You may be eligible for separation pay, depending on your length of service and type of discharge.
4. Chapter 10: Voluntary Separation
Chapter 10 is a voluntary separation program that allows soldiers to leave the Army with an honorable discharge. This program is typically used by soldiers who are experiencing personal or professional difficulties that prevent them from fulfilling their contractual obligations.
Key Considerations:
- You’ll need to meet with your command and discuss the reasons for your separation.
- You’ll be required to repay any unearned bonuses or special pays.
- You may be eligible for separation pay, depending on your length of service and type of discharge.
5. Temporary Early Retirement Authority (TERA)
TERA is a program that allows the Army to offer early retirement to soldiers who have served at least 15 years. This program is typically used to reduce the number of soldiers in the Army and to make way for newer recruits.
Key Considerations:
- You’ll need to meet with your command and discuss the reasons for your retirement.
- You’ll be required to repay any unearned bonuses or special pays.
- You’ll receive a reduced retirement benefit, which is calculated based on your years of service.
💡 Note: These options are subject to change, and individual circumstances may vary. It's essential to consult with your command and a career counselor to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
| Option | Eligibility | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expiration of Term of Service (ETS) | Completing contractual obligations | Honorable discharge, separation pay | Ensuring fulfillment of contractual obligations |
| Medical Discharge | Medical evaluation board (MEB) review | Medical retirement benefits | Extensive medical documentation required |
| Administrative Separation | Performance or conduct issues | Separation pay | Command-initiated or soldier-initiated |
| Chapter 10: Voluntary Separation | Personal or professional difficulties | Honorable discharge, separation pay | Repayment of unearned bonuses or special pays |
| Temporary Early Retirement Authority (TERA) | 15+ years of service | Reduced retirement benefit | Repayment of unearned bonuses or special pays |
In conclusion, leaving the Army can be a complex process, but understanding your options is crucial for making an informed decision. Whether you’re seeking to transition out of the military due to personal or professional reasons, it’s essential to consult with your command and a career counselor to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
What is the difference between an honorable discharge and a general discharge?
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An honorable discharge is awarded to soldiers who have served satisfactorily, while a general discharge is awarded to soldiers who have served, but not necessarily satisfactorily.
Can I leave the Army early due to personal reasons?
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Yes, you may be eligible for administrative separation or Chapter 10: Voluntary Separation, depending on your specific circumstances.
What benefits am I eligible for after leaving the Army?
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Depending on your length of service and type of discharge, you may be eligible for benefits such as education assistance, healthcare, and home loan guarantees.
