26 Dec 2024

Beyond the Horizon December 2024 (End of Year Summary of Benefits and Resources for Military Transition)

Tony Astro

Your Guide to a Successful Transition. Your Future, Your Choice. Navigating the Next Chapter. Unlock Your Potential, Beyond the Uniform. Chart Your Course to a Fulfilling Civilian Life. Your Journey to Success Starts Here. Empowering Your Transition, Securing Your Future. Your One-Stop Shop for Transition Resources. Building Brighter Futures, One Transition at a Time.

In Case You Missed It: My summary to the Latest in Transition Assistance

Transitioning from military to civilian life is a significant journey, as a Global Career Development Facilitator and Counselor, I've created this newsletter to provide  with the latest information and resources for transitioners in their  new chapter. Please note that this newsletter is not an official publication of the Fleet and Family Support Program or the Department of the Navy. It is a resource I've compiled to support active duty beyond the required capstone and classes in their transition. While I strive for accuracy, always verify information with official sources and seek personalized advice.  Please READ disclaimer at the end of this compilation.

In this issue, 24 You Might Have Missed in Spam of 2024 Information

1. Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Modernization:

1. Updated Individualized Curriculum: TAP now offers a more personalized curriculum, focusing on your specific needs and goals.
2. Source: www.dodtap.mil/
3. Online Modules: Access TAP resources anytime, anywhere, with new online modules and virtual counseling options.
4. Source: www.dodtap.mil/ (Look for eTAP information)

2. Mental Health Support:

1. Increased Access to Care: The VA is committed to reducing wait times and expanding access to mental health professionals.
2. Source: www.mentalhealth.va.gov/
3. Telehealth Expansion: Connect with mental health providers from the comfort of your home through expanded telehealth services.
4. Source: www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/mental-health/1

3. Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD):

1. Early Claims Processing: File your disability claim before separation for faster processing and a smoother transition to VA benefits.
2. Source: www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/
3. BDD Awareness Campaigns: The VA is actively educating service members about the benefits of early claims filing through BDD.
4. Source: www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5849

4. SkillBridge Program:

1. Expanded Industry Partnerships: Explore a wider range of internship and apprenticeship opportunities through SkillBridge's growing network of industry partners.
2. Source: skillbridge.osd.mil/
3. Eligibility Updates: Review the latest SkillBridge eligibility requirements to see if this program is right for you.
4. Source: skillbridge.osd.mil/ (Check the "Eligibility" section)

5. GI Bill Enhancements:

1. STEM Scholarships: Boost your education in high-demand STEM fields with new GI Bill scholarships (check with your Education Center for specific scholarship information).
2. Source: www.va.gov/resources/approved-fields-of-study-for-the-stem-scholarship/
3. Housing Allowance Updates: Ensure you receive adequate housing support during your studies with updated BAH rates for GI Bill recipients.
4. Source: www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/resources/benefits_resources/rate_tables.asp2

6. Military Spouse Employment:

1. SECO Program Expansion: Military spouses can now access more financial assistance for licenses, certifications, and education through the SECO program.
2. Source: myseco.militaryonesource.mil/portal/
3. Spouse Licensure Reimbursement: Receive reimbursement for relicensing and recertification costs when relocating due to PCS moves.
4. Source: www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/

7. Financial Readiness:

1. Personalized Financial Counseling: Develop a personalized financial plan with the help of Military OneSource's expert counselors.
2. Source: www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-legal/personal-finance/
3. Online Financial Tools: Utilize new online tools to create budgets, manage debt, and plan for your financial future.
4. Source: www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-legal/personal-finance/financial-tools-and-services/

8. Veteran Entrepreneurship:

1. Boots to Business Expansion: Explore the expanded Boots to Business program for comprehensive training and resources on starting a business.
2. Source: www.sba.gov/business-guide/grow-your-business/veteran-owned-businesses
3. Veteran-Focused Funding: Access loans, grants, and other funding opportunities specifically designed for veteran-owned businesses.
4. Source: www.va.gov/osdbu/

9. Housing Assistance:

1. BAH Rate Adjustments: Stay informed about the latest BAH rate adjustments to ensure you receive the appropriate housing allowance.
2. Source: www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/bahCalc.cfm
3. Privatized Housing Initiatives: The DoD is actively working to address concerns and improve the quality of privatized housing on military installations.
4. Source: www.militaryonesource.mil/moving-housing/housing/

10. Legal Assistance:

1. Expanded Legal Services for Transitioning Service Members: Receive free legal assistance on various matters, including estate planning, family law, and consumer protection.
2. Source: www.jag.navy.mil/legal-services/ (This is an example from the Navy JAG Corps; each branch will have its own legal assistance website.)
3. State Bar Association Resources: Explore legal aid and pro bono services offered by your state bar association for veterans and military families.
4. Source: www.americanbar.org/groups/legal_services/flh-home/

11. VA Home Loan Guaranty:

1. Native American Direct Loan: Native American veterans now have increased access to homeownership through the VA Native American Direct Loan program.
2. Source: www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/loan-types/native-american-direct-loan/
3. Loan Limits Increased: VA loan limits have been removed in many counties, making it easier for veterans to purchase homes.
4. Source: www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/purchaseco_loan_limits.asp

12. VR&E Program Updates:

1. Expanded Eligibility: More veterans now qualify for the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program, which provides support for education, training, and employment services.
2. Source: www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/
3. New Career Paths: VR&E now offers support for a wider range of career paths, including entrepreneurship and independent living services.
4. Source: www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/ (Explore the "Services Offered" section)

13. Transitioning to Federal Employment:

1. Veterans' Preference: Understand how veterans' preference works in federal hiring and maximize your chances of securing a federal job.
2. Source: www.linkedin.com/pulse/veterans-preference-federal-hiring-what-you-need-know-usagfortmeade-eamue
3. Federal Resume Writing Resources: Learn how to write a federal resume that highlights your military skills and experience.
4. Source: www.militaryonesource.mil/education-employment/for-service-members/building-your-federal-resume/

14. Networking for Success:

1. Veteran Networking Events: Connect with fellow veterans and potential employers at veteran-specific networking events and job fairs.
2. Source 1: vec.virginia.gov/node/17428
3. Source 2: my.recruitmilitary.com/events
4. Source 3:  www.hiringourheroes.org/career-services/hiring-events/
5. LinkedIn for Veterans: Optimize your LinkedIn profile to showcase your military experience and connect with professionals in your desired field.
6. Source: veterans.linkedin.com/

15. Relocation Assistance:

1. Military OneSource Relocation Resources: Access comprehensive resources and support for planning your move, finding housing, and settling into your new community.
2. Source: www.militaryonesource.mil/moving-pcs/
3. Personalized Moving Consultations: Receive personalized guidance from relocation experts to address your specific moving needs and concerns.
4. Source: www.militaryonesource.mil/moving-pcs/ (Contact Military OneSource for a consultation)

16. TRICARE Transition:

1. Understanding TRICARE Options After Separation: Learn about your TRICARE options after leaving the military, including eligibility and costs.
2. Source: www.tricare.mil/LifeEvents/Separating
3. Continued Health Care Benefits: Explore programs that allow you to continue receiving healthcare through the VA or other providers.
4. Source: www.va.gov/health-care/

17. Education Benefits for Families:

1. Updates on Transferring GI Bill Benefits: Learn about the requirements and process for transferring unused GI Bill benefits to your spouse or dependents.
2. Source:3 https://www.va.gov/education/transfer-post-9-11-gi-bill-benefits/
3. Fry Scholarship: Explore the Fry Scholarship, which provides education benefits to the surviving spouses and children of service members who died in the line of duty after September 10, 2001.
4. Source: www.va.gov/education/survivor-dependent-benefits/fry-scholarship/

18. Life Insurance:

1. Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI): Understand your SGLI coverage and options for converting it to Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI) after separation.
2. Source: www.benefits.va.gov/insurance/sgli.asp
3. Life Insurance Needs Assessment: Evaluate your life insurance needs and explore different options to ensure your family's financial security.
4. Source: www.va.gov/life-insurance/

19. Community Reintegration:

1. Veteran Service Organizations: Connect with fellow veterans and find support through organizations like the American Legion, VFW, and DAV.
2. Source: www.va.gov/vso/
3. Veteran-Owned Businesses: Support veteran-owned businesses and contribute to the economic success of the veteran community.
4. Source: www.veteranownedbusiness.com/ (This is a .com, but it's a well-established directory of veteran-owned businesses.)

20. Volunteering and Civic Engagement:

1. Volunteer Opportunities for Veterans: Find meaningful volunteer opportunities that align with your skills and interests.
2. Source: www.volunteer.va.gov/
3. Veteran Civic Leadership Programs: Develop your leadership skills and contribute to your community through veteran civic leadership programs (check with your local VA or veteran organizations for specific programs).
4. Source: www.bushcenter.org/veteran-leadership-details (Example of a veteran leadership program)

21. Retirement Planning:

1. Military Retirement System: Understand the different components of the military retirement system and plan for your financial future.
2. Source: militarypay.defense.gov/retirement/
3. Blended Retirement System: Learn about the Blended Retirement System and how it may impact your retirement benefits.
4. Source: militarypay.defense.gov/BlendedRetirement/

22. Disability Ratings and Compensation:

1. Understanding VA Disability Ratings: Learn how the VA assigns disability ratings and how these ratings affect your compensation.
2. Source: www.va.gov/disability/about-disability-ratings/
3. Filing for an Increase: Understand the process for filing for an increase in your disability rating if your condition worsens.
4. Source: www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/

23. Accessing VA Healthcare:

1. VA Healthcare Eligibility: Determine your eligibility for VA healthcare services and enroll in the system.
2. Source: www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
3. VA Medical Centers and Clinics: Find VA medical facilities near you and learn about the services they offer.
4. Source: www.va.gov/find-locations/

24. Managing Your Transition Stress:

1. Stress Management Techniques: Learn effective stress management techniques to navigate the challenges of transition.
2. Source: www.careeronestop.org/Veterans/BenefitsAndAssistance/deal-with-stress.aspx
3. Building a Support Network: Connect with family, friends, and fellow veterans to build a strong support network during your transition.
4. Source: www.militaryonesource.mil/ (Search for "support network")

Beyond the Horizon Newsletter 2024 December was gathered from information posted daily on TEAMS below and some  received on emails from various Veteran Service Organizations and other DoD partners including those I find it useful as a GCDF, CMCS, CCSP counselor and Beyond the Horizon may be updated online at this QR Code or Link (5) Transitioning Military Family: 24 You Might Have Missed in Spam of 2024 Information to Empower You | LinkedIn  So make sure you get the UPDATED version anytime in your smart phone.  Please give me us your feedback below.

It's important to remember that the information I've gathered here was up-to-date as of December 2024 but things change quickly! Those flyers you received in TAP class a few months ago might already be obsolete. I've done my best to exclude resources that might be outdated in the next few weeks or months, but the key to a successful transition is staying informed and accessing the most current guidance. This newsletter is a starting point, but always verify information with official sources and seek personalized advice for your unique needs.

Happy New Year!