Getting Out of the Military Early: Your Options and the Process
Are you facing difficulties or feeling overwhelmed during your military service? Whether it’s due to family obligations, personal reasons, or career changes, knowing how to get out of the military early can be a vital decision. As a military member, it’s essential to understand your options, the process involved, and the potential implications on your benefits and records.
How Do You Get Out of the Military Early?
There are several ways to get out of the military early, and it’s crucial to understand each option’s specifics, pros, and cons. Here are some general steps to consider:
**Option 1: Applying for Discharge Based on Conditions Affecting Service
- Medical Discharge: If you’re physically or mentally unfit for military service, you may qualify for medical discharge. Consult your Chain of Command, your Healthcare Provider, or the Navy’s Physical Evaluation Board.
- Administrative Separation: If you have a service-connected condition (e.g., PTSD, TBI, or back injuries), you may qualify for administrative separation. Request a board hearing to explain your condition and its impact on your service.
| Reasons for Early Discharge | Process | Approval Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Conditions | Seek medical attention, consult chain of command, and receive a Physical Evaluation Board hearing | 70-90% |
| Administrative Separation | Request a board hearing, provide evidence of service-connected condition, and receive approval | 80-90% |
Option 2: General Officer Evaluation
- CO (Commanding Officer) Evaluation: Your CO assesses your performance, job satisfaction, and overall adaptability to military life.
- GOMAC (General Officer Management Analysis and Control) Board Hearing: Present your case before a senior officer, demonstrating why you’re no longer suited for military service. This process is more thorough and detailed than the CO evaluation.
| Points to Emphasize during GOMAC Board | Weightage (1-5) |
|---|---|
| Unsuitability | 4 |
| Reduced performance | 3.5 |
| Family constraints | 3 |
| Career change | 2.5 |
Option 3: Early Voluntary Separation (EVS)
- Voluntary Separation Date: Specify a date in the future (up to 6 months) and receive an honorable discharge, minus pay and benefits accordingly.
- EVL (Early Voluntary Discharge) Program: Allowable for enlisted personnel and officers; provides a specific date for separation, regardless of current performance.
| EVL Program Advantages | Details |
|---|---|
| Predictable separation date | 2-12 months’ notice |
| Honorable discharge | Full benefits and military record |
Option 4: Retirement
- Age-based Retirement: Mandatory retirement at 30 years of service (as of 2023); or at age 64 (if commissioned).
- Medical Retirement: Disablement retirement due to chronic medical conditions; requires validation by a medical board and approval from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
| Retirement Benefits | Percentage of Base Pay |
|---|---|
| Basic retirement pay | 50-60% |
| Dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) | 55-60% |
| Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) | 50-70% |
Additional Factors to Consider
When evaluating these options, remember to assess the following:
- Service record: Your file will be reviewed, affecting future benefits and employment.
- Benefits and financial implications: Understand the short-term and long-term impact on your benefits, employment, and education.
- Family and personal adjustments: Military life can affect your loved ones; discuss your plans with them.
- Education and civilian career prospects: Consider re-enrollment, transferability of military skills, or additional education to enhance future employability.
- Honorable discharge: Ensure your honorable discharge won’t affect your future career or education endeavors.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get out of the military early requires an understanding of the various options, their processes, and their implications. It’s essential to carefully weigh the factors mentioned above and consult with your chain of command, a legal representative, and a military benefits expert. Remember to prioritize your safety, well-being, and future goals when making your decision.
Remember, taking the initiative to understand and navigate the process will increase your chances of a smooth transition. Stay informed, and plan wisely to secure your military career and life beyond service.
