Separation Benefits Timeline
TRICARE, SGLI, TAMP, BDD filing windows, final move deadlines — all calculated from your specific separation date. See exactly when each benefit stops, converts, or expires so you can see critical deadlines before they arrive.
Data current as of January 1, 2026 • Official DoD & VA benefit rules
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Get a date-by-date checklist for healthcare, insurance, VA filing, final move, and TAP deadlines.
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.
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.