Separation Benefits Timeline
Enter your separation date and see exactly when TRICARE, SGLI, TAMP, BDD filing, and final move deadlines hit.
Enter your separation date
See every key deadline and benefit window
Build your separation checklist
Enter your separation details
Separation Type
Enter your separation date above to see your timeline
Get a date-by-date checklist for healthcare, insurance, VA filing, final move, and TAP deadlines.
Military separation triggers a series of time-sensitive benefits and deadlines that run on separate clocks: SGLI free coverage extends 120 days and VGLI conversion must happen within 240 days; TAMP transitional healthcare (where eligible) runs 180 days; and the VA Benefits Delivery at Discharge window opens 90–180 days before separation. Missing any of these windows can result in gaps in coverage or permanently forfeited benefits. This calculator generates a personalized timeline of key dates based on your separation date and type.
Example: Key Deadlines for an E-6 Separating September 30, 2026
Scenario: E-6 with 10 years of service, voluntary separation on September 30, 2026. Not eligible for TAMP (voluntary ETS). Every deadline below is calculated from that single date.
What this means: There are three deadlines that catch separating service members off guard. First, the BDD filing window closes July 2 — if you miss it, you can still file after separation but lose the faster processing timeline. Second, the SGLI no-exam window on May 28, 2027 is critical: after that date you must answer health questions and could be denied coverage. Third, the final move deadline of March 29, 2027 is strictly enforced — contact your TMO well in advance of peak PCS season (May–August).
SGLI to VGLI: don't miss the no-exam window
Your Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) continues at no cost for 120 days after separation. After that, it ends — but you can convert to Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI) any time within 1 year and 120 days (485 days) of separation.
The critical window: apply within 240 days and you generally won't need to prove you're in good health, regardless of your medical status. After 240 days, you'll need to answer health questions and could be denied. VGLI premiums are based on age and coverage amount — set a reminder well before day 240.
What is TAMP, and are you eligible?
The Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) provides 180 days of continued TRICARE coverage after separation — but it's not automatic and not available to everyone. TAMP covers service members who separate under qualifying involuntary conditions, early retirement programs, or certain special separation benefits.
Verify TAMP eligibility with your branch's personnel office before you separate. If you don't qualify, TRICARE ends the day you leave. You'll need to arrange marketplace coverage, employer-sponsored insurance, or VA healthcare immediately — there is no grace period.
Compare your post-separation healthcare options →Filing VA disability before you separate (BDD)
The VA's Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program lets you file a disability claim 180 to 90 days before separation. BDD is designed to help VA process your claim sooner after separation — VA's goal is to deliver a rating within 30 days of your separation date.
To use BDD, you must have a confirmed separation date, be available for VA exams before separation, and submit service treatment records. Your Separation Health Assessment (SHA) Part A supports BDD claims — schedule both at the same time. Even a 20% rating adds $356.66/month in 2026 in ongoing monthly tax-free compensation if service-connected and approved.
Final move: 180 days vs. 3 years
Separating service members have 180 days from their separation date to complete their final government-paid move. Retirees have up to 3 years. This deadline is strictly enforced — miss it and you may lose the entitlement unless an extension or exception is approved. Check your orders and transportation office early.
Contact your branch's Personal Property office as early as possible. Peak PCS season (May–August) limits capacity and popular moving dates book out months in advance. The move covers your household goods to your home of record or a location of equivalent distance, whichever you choose.
About TAP deadlines
Plan to complete required TAP counseling, workshops, and Capstone before final out — many milestones are designed to be completed no later than 90 days before separation. If you're planning retirement, start TAP 18–24 months before your retirement date. TAP includes financial planning, employment assistance, VA benefits briefings, and the required capstone event. Completion is tracked through your Service's personnel system and is a commander's requirement.
Related resources
Disclaimer
MilPayTools calculators use official DoD and VA rate tables (2026) for educational purposes only. Results are estimates and may not reflect your exact situation. Always verify your pay and benefits with your unit's Finance Office, your MyPay account, or an accredited military financial counselor. Tax calculations are illustrative estimates — consult a tax professional for personalized advice. This tool is not affiliated with the Department of Defense, the VA, or any government agency.
Want updated numbers when 2027 rates drop?
Updates when pay tables, BAH rates, or tools change. No spam.
We'll only email you when official rates change or new tools launch. Unsubscribe anytime.