Are you a soon-to-be Veteran Mom separating from active duty military service?
There are a number of life-changing decisions that must be made during your final months of service. The following military separation guide was developed to help you transition to civilian motherhood and support your family in your new role.
1. Housing
Separating from active duty military service may require you to move to a new location, transition to civilian housing or adjust your housing budget. The basic housing allowance (BAH) provided to active duty service members is no longer available unless you are receiving education benefits through The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) . We recommend that you consider your future housing needs, budget and location of your post-service home.
2. Health Insurance
Civilian health insurance is very complicated and may require extensive research to determine the best plan for your family. Civilian health insurance may be available through an employer or purchasing it through the Marketplace. Healthcare enrollment for military veterans is available through The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and meets the requirements of the Affordable Care Act. You may be able to purchase short-term COBRA health insurance through your service branch prior to separation. We recommend that you research your medical needs and available health insurance options prior to loosing your active duty TRICARE benefits.
3. VA Benefits
All eligible military veterans, regardless of expected disability rating, should enroll with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as soon as possible after separating from active duty. Veterans may qualify for healthcare, disability, education benefits, employment assistance, life insurance and other helpful benefits. Under The Pact Act, Veterans may qualify for enhanced benefits if they meet certain criteria. To learn more, please visit www.va.gov.
4. Employment
Will you be transitioning into the civilian workforce or to stay-at-home motherhood after separation? Both callings may require an adjustment to expectations, budgeting, job training, education and networking. We recommend that Veteran Moms take advantage of the Veteran or Military Spouse preferences available through federal civilian service. Job vacancies for all federal agencies are advertised through USAJobs.gov.
5. Childcare
Separating from active duty means that you will no longer have access to the on base Child Development Center or daycare facility. You should consider your future childcare needs and determine the best childcare options for your family. If you are looking for an in-home childcare provider, Care.com offers background check services and listings for caregivers across the country.
6. Education
Education requirements for children and Veterans may change after leaving military service. In conjunction with a final move to a new location, Veteran parents will need to identify potential schools, school districts and/or state homeschool requirements for their new community.
Veterans may be entitled to education benefits through he U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In additional to tuition benefits, Veterans may receive a basic-housing-allowance (BAH) to help with housing costs while enrolled in higher education courses. This is a great way to maintain your professional skills while providing income for your family.
