PRESEPARATION COUNSELING CHECKLIST RESERVE COMPONENT (RC) BRIEFING SCRIPT FOR

Transcription

1 PRESEPARATION COUNSELING CHECKLIST FOR RESERVE COMPONENT (RC) BRIEFING SCRIPT JANUARY

2 10. Effects of a Career Change Your military career has been both challenging and rewarding. Now you are ready for a new career. Because you want to be confident the decisions you make about your future are the right ones, you may experience stress or anxiety as a result of change, problems and even opportunities. Stress is not an attitude. It is a physical response to a situation that, if ignored, can lead to conflict, mental and physical exhaustion, or even serious illness. Some of the indicators of stress are constant fatigue, headaches, trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, stomach problems, feeling nervous and a desire to be alone. If you find you just can t seem to move forward, consider seeking assistance to help you. Now is a good time to begin to think about the changes that lie ahead and plan for dealing with stress before it becomes a reality. There are many professionals available for you to speak with and many agencies exist to help you with your transition and the stress you may experience. There also are agencies off the installation that can help. These centers are staffed with professionals experienced and trained in providing mental health and readjustment counseling to veterans. Another useful resource is Military OneSource. Military OneSource counselors provide information on a wide range of topics relevant to you and your family. Military and Veterans Service Organizations are good resources for assistance and guidance. Veteran Service Organizations provide advocacy, education and other support needs for the unique issues facing veterans. Also check into your local community s social service agencies, support groups and self-help books. You can search online for these agencies and resources in your area. If you think you need more assistance or information regarding the effects of a career change, select yes. 2

3 11a. U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) sponsored Transition Assistance Employment Workshops and Service sponsored Transition workshops/seminars The time you invest before you separate from military service will pay dividends when you are ready to seek another career. The TAP Employment Workshop gives you your spouse a firsthand look at what to expect after military service and will ease your transition to civilian life. The workshop provides valuable training and information on various job search techniques, labor market information, resume and interview skills and much more. It also will help with individual transition planning, employment assistance, small business information, priority of service for veterans in DOL programs and many other services. Studies have indicated that people who attend TAP Employment Workshops gain an edge over other applicants and find employment sooner than those who do not participate. The TAP Employment Workshop is available on military installations. You can schedule a workshop with ACAP, either online at or with an ACAP Center. If you cannot attend a workshop prior to separation, you can access the services after separation or attend career workshops at the State Employment Offices or One-Stop Centers. If you would like to attend a workshop, select yes. If you do not want to attend a workshop, select no. 11b. Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET), DD Form 2586 The VMET document is not an official transcript; however, it can help you translate military terminology and training into civilian terms and establish your capabilities with prospective employers. Your VMET document, which is created from automated personnel records, can 3

4 verify your military experience and training and is useful when discussing civilian occupations related to your military service. It will help as you write resumes, interview for jobs, negotiate credits at schools or obtain licenses and certificates. It also can be beneficial if you apply to a college or vocational institute. The VMET document is available to all eligible Service members online. You should download your VMET as soon as you decide to leave the Service or at least 120 days before your separation date. If you want more information on VMET, select yes. 11c. Civilian Occupations Corresponding to Military Occupations/ONET O*NET is the nation's primary source of occupational information. The O*NET database contains information on hundreds of different occupations and describes job functions. O*NET tells you what tools are used in specific jobs; explains the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position; and the type of training and education required. O*NET also contains Career Exploration Tools and a set of valuable assessment instruments for workers and students looking to find or change careers. It offers an ability, interest and work importance profiler. O*NET identifies industry standard keywords you can use when writing your resume. The database is available to you at no cost and is continually updated. O*NET has a section entitled My Next Move that is useful for researching potential occupations. At this site, you can browse careers, search for careers by keywords and even find careers you never imagined. If you want to learn more about O*NET, select yes. 4

5 11c(1). Licensing, Certifications and Apprenticeship Information Some federal, state or local laws may require specific credentials to legally perform some jobs. Having a credential demonstrates to prospective employers that your skills are on par with your civilian peers and may improve your hiring prospects. There are two primary types of credentialing: licenses and certifications. State or federal laws or regulations define the standards that individuals must meet to become licensed. For these types of professions, licenses are typically mandatory. Certifications are different. Non-governmental agencies, associations and even private sector companies may grant certificates to individuals who meet predetermined qualifications. These qualifications, generally, are set by professional associations or by industry and product-related organizations. Certifications, typically, are optional credentials; although, some state licensure boards and some employers may require certification. Licenses and certifications can be expensive, but you may be able to use your GI Bill to help with the cost of credentialing. Visit the VA website for eligibility information and application forms. Many veterans leave the military with skills and experience that qualify them for comparable civilian occupations, sometimes with little or no additional training. You will have a clear advantage by having your licenses and certifications in order when you apply for jobs. If you would like more information about licenses and certifications, select yes. 11c(1)(a). Department of Labor CareerOneStop 5

6 The Department of Labor s CareerOneStop website will help you explore credentialing requirements for various career opportunities. The credentialing section of the website has information on credentials, licenses, apprenticeships and resources. If you would like more information about CareerOneStop, select yes. 11c(1)(b). U.S. Army Credentialing On-line The Credentialing Opportunities On-Line website, COOL, explains how you can meet civilian certification and license requirements related to your Military Occupational Specialty or MOS. You can use this site to research civilian licenses and certifications relevant to your MOS and learn how to fill any gaps between your military experience and training and civilian credentialing requirements. You will find resources that can help you obtain civilian job credentials as well as explore financial assistance options. This assistance can help you pay for licenses and training. COOL includes enlisted and Warrant Officer MOSs. If you would like more information about COOL, select yes. 11c(1)(c). U.S. Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) USMAP is a program for members of the United States Marine Corps, Navy or Coast Guard. The program, which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor, enables members of these Services to complete different civilian apprenticeship elements required under civilian apprenticeship programs in a structured, formal training program. When the program is completed, USMAP awards a DOL certificate of completion. 6

7 If you would like more information about USMAP, select yes. 11c(1)(d). Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) DANTES offers traditional and non-traditional education opportunities ranging from certification and distance learning programs to tuition assistance, higher education and examination programs. DANTES offers the College Level Examination Program, or CLEP, and the Service Member Opportunity College. CLEP provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate college-level achievement through a program of exams in undergraduate college courses. Students can receive college credit for what they already know, which saves tuition dollars and time. CLEP also helps satisfy proficiency requirements. Almost 3,000 colleges grant credit and/or advanced standing for CLEP exams. Service Member Opportunity College is a consortium of more than 1800 colleges and universities that provide educational opportunities for Service members and their families. It also coordinates associate and bachelor degree programs offered by colleges and universities. These programs are available to members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard on installations worldwide and through distance learning. DANTES also offers an extensive series of examinations in college subjects that are comparable to the final or end-of-course examinations in undergraduate courses through the Subject Standardized Tests, or DSST program. If you would like more information on DANTES, select yes. 11c(1)(e). U.S. Navy Credentialing On-line 7

8 The Credentialing Opportunities On-line, or COOL, website for Navy personnel relates civilian certification and license requirements to Navy ratings, jobs, designators and occupations. The COOL website includes background information about civilian licensure and certification. It explains how to fill gaps between military training and experience and civilian credentialing requirements. COOL also includes resources for obtaining civilian job credentials and exploring financial assistance. If you want more information about Navy COOL, select yes. 11d. TurboTAP TurboTAP is a comprehensive web portal for separation and retirement related issues. TurboTAP provides links to resources for money management, veteran benefits, education and training assistance and other information. It includes the complete DoD Career Decision Toolkit. TurboTAP also provides information on health care and links to the Service-specific transition websites for information and resources. Visitors to the website can register for virtual learning opportunities on transition related topics. If you would like to learn more about TurboTAP, select yes. 11d(1). Employment Hub TurboTAP Employment Hub is a resource available to you when you are ready to start your job search. This hub helps you translate military skills and experience into civilian terms, build a 8

9 resume and search for jobs. It also provides essential interview tips. In addition, the employment hub serves as a resource to link you with job search websites and databanks. For more information on TurboTAP Employment Hub, select yes. If you do not want further information, select no. 11d(2). Hire Vets First The Hire Vets First program and website have been suspended. 11d(3). State Job Boards State job boards are found on state websites. Job seekers can post information, such as a job experience profile and/or resume, directly on most state job board websites. Employers can use their state s site to search for job applicants. Job boards match individuals seeking employment and businesses seeking employees with one another to meet each other s needs. These resources are free to both employers and job seekers. If you want more information about state job boards, select yes. 11d(4). DOL REALifelines (Recovery & Employment Assistance Lifelines) The Department of Labor s Recovery and Employment Assistance Lifelines, or REALifelines, provides veterans and transitioning service members who have been wounded and injured as a result of the War on Terrorism, and their family members, with the resources they need to successfully transition to a rewarding career. Developed by the Veterans Employment and Training Service (DoL VETS), the REALifelines Advisor provides valuable information and 9

10 contacts for one-on-one employment assistance. It also provides online resources to assist wounded and injured transitioning service members and veterans in their reintegration into the civilian workforce. While this site is primarily intended for use by wounded and injured transitioning service members, it offers extensive information and resources that can benefit all veterans. If you want more information about REALifelines, select yes. 11e. Public and Community Service Opportunities (PACS) In planning for your transition, you might want to consider employment opportunities in nonprofit, public and community service organizations. Some of these include schools, hospitals, law enforcement agencies and social service agencies at national, state and local levels. Public and community service jobs let you address compelling community issues and challenges in education, public safety, health and human services, the environment and more. Transitioning Service members have technical skills in areas of critical importance. Many already have security clearances required for some federal positions. There are as many reasons to serve as there are people who serve from solving problems in your community to serving your country. If you are interested in continuing to serve America, you are encouraged to explore public or community service options. If you want more information about Public and Community Service Opportunities select yes. 10

11 11f. Teacher and Teacher s Aide Opportunities/Troops to Teachers Troops to Teachers offers assistance to active or reserve military personnel who want to pursue a career in public education as an elementary or secondary school teacher. Pending appropriations, qualified personnel may be eligible for a stipend to help pay for the cost of a teacher certification program or to receive a bonus to teach in a high need school district. Financial assistance is available to certain military personnel. Service requirements, eligibility criteria and application procedures can be found on the Troops to Teachers website. Generally, you must hold a baccalaureate or advanced degree from an accredited institution at the time you apply. Those interested in teaching in a vocational or technical school must have a minimum of one year of college, or the equivalent, with six years of experience in a vocational or technical field. If you want to learn more about Troops to Teachers, select yes. 11g. Federal Employment Opportunities There are three main ways in which veterans who are interested in working for the federal government can apply for positions. They are the Merit Promotion access method, Special Hiring Authorities and Competitive Appointments. The Merit Promotion access method through the Veterans Employment and Opportunities Act (VEOA) gives eligible veterans access to jobs that otherwise would be available only to status employees. Eligible veterans can apply to agency merit promotion announcements that are open to candidates outside the agency but not to the general public, as are competitive appointments. By applying to a merit promotion announcement, you compete only against other prior civil-service candidates for a 11

12 career or career conditional appointment in the competitive service. To be eligible, you must have separated under honorable conditions and be preference eligible. If you are interested in learning more about Federal Employment Opportunities, select yes. 11g(1). USAJOBS USAJOBS is the official job site of the United States Federal Government. It serves as the Office of Personnel Management, OPM, website. With this website you can search for federal jobs and verify if you qualify for veterans preference points and other federal benefit programs. It also includes helpful information on how to submit an application packet. If you would like more information about USAJOBS, select yes. 11g(2). Go-Defense If you are interested in a career in national defense the Go-Defense website will be very helpful. It includes many levels of employment from entry level to executive positions as well as nonappropriated fund jobs. In addition, this website has links to Department of Defense agency websites. If you want more information about Go-Defense.com, select yes. 11g(3). Veterans Preference in Federal Employment 12

13 Veterans preference in federal employment is determined by a point system and administered by OPM. Generally, a five-point preference is given to honorably separated veterans who have served more than 180 consecutive days of active duty before October 14, 1976 or who served continuously for 24 months, or the full period called or ordered to active duty during any war or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized. Preference for veterans who retired at or above the rank of Major or Lieutenant Commander is contingent on a disability. To be entitled to preference you must produce a DD Form 214 prior to applying for this program. A ten-point preference is given to disabled veterans and veterans who are awarded the Purple Heart and honorably separated. Hiring preference is also granted to the spouse of an unemployable disabled veteran, the unmarried widow or widower of a veteran, or the mother of a deceased or disabled veteran. Retired reservists who are not receiving retired pay are not considered retired military for purposes of veterans' preference. If you would like to know more about Veterans Preference, select yes. 11g(4). Veterans Federal Procurement Opportunities There are advantages to having your own government contracting business if you re a veteran. If you are interested in starting your own government contracting business, the Small Business Development Act gives you an advantage over other small businesses competing for government contracts. Each year three percent of all prime contract and subcontract awards are given to small businesses owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans. In addition, federal procurement officials and prime contractors are required to provide opportunities for small businesses owned 13

14 and controlled by veterans or service-disabled veterans to participate in performance contracts awarded by any federal agency. Service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses are awarded government contracts through a sole-source or a set-aside award based on competition that is restricted to these firms. Veteran owned companies must be registered in the Central Contractor Registration system. The Small Business Administration offers substantial assistance as well as a Mentor-Protégé Program to small disadvantaged businesses. If you would like to know more about Veterans Federal Procurement Opportunities, select yes. 11g(5). Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Special Hiring Authorities There are several ways to get a federal job. One way is by utilizing a Special Appointing Authority for Veterans, which is a non-competitive appointment. If you re eligible, you may have a significant advantage over others because you do not compete outside the special authority category. To receive special appointing authorities you must have been discharged or released from active duty under honorable conditions and meet other eligibility requirements. The Veterans Recruitment Appointment, VRA, is another special authority, which agencies can use to appoint an eligible veteran without open competition. A veteran can be appointed to any position for which he or she is qualified, up to GS-11 or equivalent. If a veteran has two years of satisfactory employment, the person s position can be converted to a career-conditional job. However, based on VRA eligibility, the veteran may be given a noncompetitive, temporary or term appointment that does not lead to a career job. If you are 30% or more disabled, you may be given a temporary or term position for which you are qualified. Unlike VRA however, there is no grade limitation. If you then have a satisfactory performance, you may be converted at any 14

15 time to a career-conditional appointment. Contact the personnel office of the federal agency where you are interested in working to find out more about these opportunities. If you are interested in knowing more about Special Appointing Authority for Veterans select yes. 11h. Hiring Preference in Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) Jobs NAF jobs are found on military installations, as well as at Department of Transportation and Veterans Affairs activities. NAF jobs involve trades, crafts or manual labor. NAF employees can be skilled, semi-skilled or unskilled. They may be foremen or supervisors. If you are separated involuntarily with an honorable discharge and can receive transition benefits, or you are separating with a special separation benefit, or separating with the voluntary separation incentive, you could be eligible for a NAF hiring preference. This is a one-time preference for you and your family members for NAF positions you, or they, are qualified to perform. If you are interested in more information about NAF jobs and the preference, select yes. 11i. State Employment Agencies Once you leave the military, state employment agencies can assist you in finding a job. Veterans who use these centers receive priority for job referrals, testing, counseling and other services. Services and benefits vary from state to state. In most states, you can register with the employment agency on-line. State employment agencies and One-stop Career Centers have Veteran Employment Representatives to assist you with a wide-range of employment issues. 15

16 Disabled Veteran Outreach Program specialists or D-VOPs serve disabled veterans exclusively. They focus mainly on veterans with barriers to employment, who are in need of intensive services. Local Veterans Employment Representatives conduct employer outreach and provide employment, training and placement services directly to veterans. If you would like more information about State Employment Agencies, select yes. 11i(1). Career One-stop Centers One-stop Career Centers provide a full range of assistance to job seekers. Established under the Workforce Investment Act, WIA, the centers offer employment-related services in person, online or kiosks. One-stops are conveniently located and provide a wealth of information. A One-stop can connect you to employment, education and training services provided through local, state and federal programs. These centers are a statewide network and offer a variety of services. One-stop centers can connect you to the employment, education and training services provided through local, state and federal programs. These centers are a statewide network and offer a variety of services. The CareerOneStop website provides information about career fields and current labor market information. You also can explore training; compare skill banks, typical job duties and technology requirements; and search employers and jobs. If you are interested in learning more about One-stop Career Centers, select yes. 11i(2). Workforce Investment Act (WIA) 16

17 The Workforce Investment Act or WIA is administered by the Department of Labor. WIA trains and educates job seekers about the skills that businesses look for in employees. Individuals who take advantage of WIA services choose the training programs that best fit their personal situation. Through WIA they access core services such as job search and placement assistance, labor market information, initial assessments and information about assistance and follow-up services. Unemployed individuals who need more than core services can access individual employment plans, group and individual counseling, case management and short-term prevocational assistance. WIA services are available through the One-stop Career Centers. If you want to know more about WIA select yes. 11j. Veterans small business ownership and entrepreneurship programs Programs are explained at 11j(1) and 11j(2). 11j(1). Small Business Administration and the SBA Patriot Express Loan The Small Business Administration, SBA, provides a full range of entrepreneurial support programs as well as specific programs for Veterans, Service-Disabled Veterans and members of the National Guard and Reserve. SBA offers established loan and Surety Bonding programs for Veterans and Reservists and government procurement programs for Veterans. There are Veterans Business Development Officers in every SBA District Office. District Offices offer outreach, counseling and training at more than 15 hundred Small Business Development Centers, The Service Corp of Retired Executives (SCORE) Chapters and Women s Business Centers. They are also available online. SCORE is a national association dedicated to helping small business 17

18 owners start and build their businesses. SCORE is a volunteer organization of active and retired business people who offer assistance to individuals starting or operating small businesses. They offer low-cost educational seminars and free one-on-one counseling. The Patriot Express Loan for military personnel supports and assists those in the military community who want to establish or expand their small businesses. Offered by SBA s network of participating lenders nationwide, the loan streamlines documentation and processing. Loans of up to $500,000 are available to businesses where a veteran owns at least 51 percent and qualifies for SBA s maximum guaranty. The Patriot Express Loan can be used for most business purposes, including start-up, expansion, equipment purchases, working capital, inventory or business-occupied real estate purchases. The Patriot Express Loan offers SBA s lowest interest rates for business loans, generally 2 1/4 percent to 4 3/4 percent over prime. If you would like more information about SBA or the Patriot Express Loan, select yes. 11j(2). National Veteran s Business Development Corporation If you re a disabled veteran and an entrepreneur, you ll want to investigate The National Veteran s Business Development Corporation. The corporation is a congressionally mandated program started in 2001 to achieve compliance with the government s 3 percent goal of procurement for disabled veterans. The corporation utilizes both public and private monies to expand and reinforce monetary assistance to disabled veterans in small businesses. It also established a Task Force for Veterans Entrepreneurship. If you want more information about the National Veteran s Business Development Corporation, select yes. 18

19 11k. Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) When you join the military or are called to active duty in the National Guard or Reserve, upon your return, you may have reemployment rights with your civilian employer. The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, or USERRA, clearly establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration or the nature of your service. As long as basic eligibility criteria are met you are protected. The criteria include character of service, initial obligation or duration of service, advance notice and timely reapplication. The USERRA reemployment escalator principle provides for returning Service members to be rehired with the same seniority, status, pay, rights and benefits as determined by seniority. USERRA requires employers to take reasonable steps so returning Service members can qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides protection from discrimination in hiring or rehiring that might result from past, present or future membership in the uniformed services. The Department of Labor s Veterans Employment and Training Service, DoL VETS, provides assistance to all persons having claims under USERRA. Members of the National Guard or Reserve who might have any employee/employer problems or misunderstandings as a result of their membership can also contact the Department of Defense organization, Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve, or ESGR, for assistance. If you want more information about Employment or Reemployment Rights, select yes. 11l. Priority of Service 19

20 As a veteran, you and your eligible spouse are given priority of service for any Department of Labor funded programs, including employment, training and placement services at state Employment Service offices or One-stop Career Centers. Federal law requires all states to develop policies in their workforce plan for the delivery of priority of service. States are also required to have the workforce system and DOL programs to support implementation. If you would like more information about priority of service, select yes. 12a. Permissive Temporary (PTDY) and Excess Leave Looking for the right job and a place to live can be challenging and can take longer than you anticipate. Permissive TDY and Excess Leave may be authorized for job search and house hunting activities that facilitate your relocation to civilian life. You can request either excess leave or Permissive TDY, but not both, and your request must be approved by your unit commander. To be eligible, you must separate with a Separation Program Designator or SPD code that provides transition benefits. Retiring Service members, members who are separating involuntarily under honorable conditions, and members being discharged for medical reasons can be eligible for Permissive TDY or Excess Leave. Because there are restrictions, you need to check with your command and personnel office. If you are a Reserve Component Service member, you are authorized only the leave you earned while on active duty, so check with your local command to determine leave policies and options. Eligible Service members can take up to 20 days of Permissive TDY for job hunting, house hunting or other relocation activities. You could be authorized for up to 30 days of Permissive TDY if you are a Service member stationed overseas, or if you are not a U.S. resident and not stationed at your home of record, or if you are 20

21 overseas and returning to a legal residence in the United States. If you are overseas and not returning to your home of record; the place from which you were called or ordered to active duty; the place of your first enlistment; or your place of permanent legal residence, you could be authorized 20 days of Permissive TDY. You can take Permissive TDY all at once or in increments, except in cases of disability retirement or separation, when time constraints dictate that it is taken all at once or not at all. If you want more information about Permissive TDY and Excess Leave, select yes. 12b. Travel and Transportation Allowances As a separating Service member you are authorized travel and transportation allowances from your last duty station to your home of record or the place where you entered active duty. If you are retiring, you are authorized for travel and transportation allowances from your last duty station to a home of selection any place in the United States, a home of record or the place you entered active duty outside the United States. Travel must be completed within established time frames. Eligible retirees and certain involuntary separatees are authorized storage and shipment of household goods for up to one year. Household goods can be shipped to any destination within the United States; to a home of record outside the United States; or to the place outside the U.S. from where the Soldier was initially called to active duty. For up to six months, all other separatees are authorized to store and to ship household goods to the location they identified for separation. Contact the Personal Property or Transportation Office for more information. As a Reserve Component Service member on active duty, you are authorized transportation to your place of entry onto active duty. If you travel to a different location, your transportation 21

22 reimbursement is limited to the cost of traveling to your place of entry. Your transportation office can explain travel and transportation entitlements and limitations. Reserve Component Service members ordered to active duty normally are not authorized shipment or storage of household goods upon entry or separation. If you are retiring from full-time active duty or being involuntarily separated, check with your Commander and your transportation and personnel offices to see if you are eligible for shipment and storage of household goods. Eligible involuntary separatees or Selected Early Retirement Board retirees can be extended in military housing for up to 180 days, following separation or retirement, on a space available basis. The housing office can provide more information and rental rates. Subject to overseas Status of Forces agreements, dependents of Service members separating involuntarily who completed the 11th grade by the Service member's separation date could be granted a Department of Defense Dependents School Extension. If you would like more information about Relocation Assistance, select yes. 13. Contact Information for Housing Counseling Assistance If you live in government quarters, you must schedule a pre-inspection. You will learn about the requirements for cleaning and vacating your quarters and your options for completing these requirements. If you are moving from a rental property, notify your landlord as soon as possible. If you have any problems as the result of your separation, the Housing Office can assist you. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD, website lists state resources and program offices for assistance in avoiding foreclosure, financing home improvements and buying or selling a home. The HUD Veteran Resource Center has a wide variety of HUD homeless 22

23 assistance programs and services for veterans. HUDVET also helps with issues of affordable housing for individuals with disabilities, runaway youth and combating domestic violence. If you want more information about Housing Counseling, select yes. 14a. Education Benefits (Post 9-11 GI Bill Chapter 33), (Montgomery GI Bill Chapter 30), (Veterans Educational Assistance Program), (Vietnam-era, etc.) The VA provides financial assistance for a wide variety of education programs, including degree programs, technical and vocational programs, correspondence courses, on-the-job training, entrance exams, and licensing and certification tests. Programs must be approved before VA benefits are paid. Your education program eligibility is affected by your contract and the time you served, so check with your Education Center, your National Guard or Reserve unit or resources in your local community to learn more about your educational benefits. The Education Center has information on the Veterans Education Assistance Program, the Montgomery GI Bill, and other veterans education benefit programs. It also provides additional services and testing and can help you have your military education and training evaluated for academic credit. Eligibility for Montgomery GI Bill education benefits requires an honorable discharge. Eligibility for Veterans Educational Assistance Program, VEAP, education benefits requires an other-than-dishonorable discharge. The Post 9/11 GI Bill provides financial support for education and housing to honorably discharged individuals with at least 90 days of service on or after September 11, It also supports individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days on active duty. The Post-9/11 GI Bill can be used for approved graduate degrees, undergraduate degrees, vocational/technical training, tutorial assistance, and licensing 23

24 and certification tests. The Post 9/11 GI Bill pays tuition and fees, books, supplies and a stipend up to 36 months. It is generally available for 15 years following release from active duty. To be eligible for 100% of the benefit, you must have served a total of 36 months of active duty service. For those who served fewer than 36 months, the percentage of the benefit ranges from 40% to 90%. The Post 9/11 GI Bill also offers some beneficiaries the opportunity to transfer their GI Bill to dependents. If you enrolled in the Montgomery GI Bill and paid $100 per month for 12 months, you are entitled to receive a monthly education benefit once you complete your minimum service obligation. MGIB requires an honorable discharge and a high school diploma or GED or, in some cases, 12 hours of college credit. MGIB provides up to 36 months of education benefits. The Reserve Education Assistance Program is another benefit that provides education assistance to members of the Reserve Component called or ordered to active duty for contingency operations. Eligibility is determined by DOD and the Department of Homeland Security. Benefits cannot be used with other VA educational benefits. Recipients must choose which program they want their military service to count towards. Benefits are payable beginning 90 days after September 11, 2001 and they are determined by the number of days the Servicemember was activated. As a member of the Selected Reserve, you could be eligible for the MGIB-Selected Reserve education assistance program and receive up to 36 months of education benefits for programs, courses and training. You must meet program requirements including a six-year service obligation, initial active duty for training, have a high school diploma, and remain in good standing while serving in an active Selected Reserve unit. The Army American Council on Education Registry Transcript Service, or AARTS, recommends equivalent college credit for military training and service duties. Download your AARTS transcript and ask the education office to assist you in reviewing your credit. 24

25 If you want more information about Education Benefits, select yes. 14b. U.S. Department of Education Federal Aid Programs The Federal Aid Program includes grants, loans and work-study programs. These federally funded loan programs partner with postsecondary schools and financial institutions to provide money for college to eligible students and families. The Federal Aid Program provides information on how to obtain aid, use technology to submit applications, and fill out financial aid applications. It provides information on loan rules and regulations and student loan accounts. Veterans education benefits can still be used in conjunction with Federal Student Aid. There also is a Veterans Upward Bound program available to help you refresh your academic skills so you can successfully complete your college program. If you want to know more about Federal Aid Programs select yes. 14c. Other Federal, State, or local education/training programs and options The Education Center provides professional counselors who can advise you on the education opportunities. Education Center counselors can help you learn about undergraduate, graduate or certificate programs. They can also point you toward other program options available through the military from college-level testing and professional military education to veterans benefits, tuition assistance, financial aid, distance learning and testing. Testing can be an important first step in determining your career path. Some colleges and universities may require test results as 25

26 part of your application packet. Prior to your departure from military service, be sure to take advantage of the many Ed Center services available to you. If you would like more information about other education and training programs, select yes. 14d. Loan Relief Loan relief for members of the National Guard and Ready Reserve called to active duty applies to student loans made under the Federal Family Education Loan, William D. Ford Loan, and Federal Perkins Loan programs. Under Department of Education guidance, lenders automatically postpone student loan payments during active duty service. Interest payments on subsidized student loans are eligible for payment by the federal government. The Department of Education also encourages colleges and universities to either fully refund tuition and other institutional charges or give comparable credit to students forced to withdraw from school to fulfill military obligations. Schools are urged to offer flexible re-enrollment options to affected students and to those who have been forced to withdraw from school as a result of terrorist attacks. Students who were called to active duty or affected by military mobilization, as well as others who withdrew as a direct result of terrorist attacks, are not required to return financial aid funds received for books and living expenses. If you have more questions about Loan Relief, select yes. 15a. Information on availability of Healthcare and Mental Health Services 26

27 In order to make the best healthcare choices, you need to be aware of available healthcare options. Because there are many different programs and services as well as requirements for receiving them, military Service members who are separating or retiring should attend a Department of Veterans Affairs, or VA, Benefits Briefing to learn about VA healthcare coverage. Combat Veterans discharged from active duty on or after January 28, 2003 can receive enhanced enrollment placement in programs for five years after the date they leave the service. Activated members of the National Guard or Reserve may be able to keep enrollment eligibility after the five year period ends. In order to do, so they must have done the following: served on active duty in a theater of combat operation after November 11, 1998, and left service under any conditions other than dishonorable. They must also enroll with the VA under the Combat Veteran Authority. DOD s Mental Health Self Assessment Program provides mental health and alcohol screening and referral for military families and Service members affected by deployment and mobilization. The program is voluntary and anonymous and is offered online, by phone and through special events held at installations and Reserve units. Self-assessments are available for the following: depression, bipolar disorder, alcohol abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Assessment results and resources including TRICARE, Vet Centers and Military OneSource are provided at the end of every assessment. If you would like more information about Healthcare and Mental Health Services, select yes. 15a(1). Transitional Healthcare Benefit/TRICARE Transitional healthcare offers TRICARE-like benefits for 180 days to eligible Service members involuntarily separated from active duty. To be eligible, members of the Reserve Component 27

28 must be separated from active duty after serving more than 30 days in support of a contingency operation, or after being involuntarily retained on active duty in support of a contingency operation, or they must be separated from military service following a voluntary agreement to remain on active duty for one year or less in support of a contingency operation. Transitional healthcare, a Transitional Assistance Management Program, or TAMP, benefit, ensures you have coverage while you make your decision to enroll in TRICARE Reserve Select or another medical insurance program. You must make sure you and your family members are enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, DEERS. You also will pay quarterly transitional healthcare premiums and deductibles for any care you may need during that period. If you are currently enrolled in TRICARE Prime, you will automatically be un-enrolled once you separate from active duty unless you contact the TRICARE regional managed care support contractor, or the local TRICARE service center, to re-enroll in TRICARE Prime. If you do not re-enroll, your transition coverage will be under TRICARE Standard. TAMP Dental Coverage provides dental care in military dental treatment facilities on a limited and space-available basis. If you want more information about Transitional Healthcare Benefit/TRICARE, select yes. 15a(2). TRICARE Reserve Select TRICARE Reserve Select is a comprehensive healthcare program for the Select or Drilling Reserve. If you enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select before you were mobilized, you must reenroll because your benefits were suspended when you mobilized. If you are a member of the Selected Reserve or the Ready Reserve, not on active duty orders or covered by the TAMP program, and not eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employee Health Benefits program, 28

29 TRICARE Reserve Select is a great option. If you qualify, you can purchase TRICARE Reserve Select after your TAMP coverage ends. The Service secretaries are required to provide information to Reserve Component members injured on active duty regarding Warrior Transition Unit information on available care, information on administration processing and the location of the WTUs. Members of the National Guard or Reserve who require only outpatient care can request a transfer to a Community Based Health Care Organization, or CBHCO. If you served in an area where imminent danger pay was authorized and are involved in the Disability Evaluation System, you will be retained on active duty for the duration of the process. If you choose to terminate active duty early, you must be counseled about the consequences of early termination on benefits and entitlements. As a member of the Reserve Component, you will need to obtain dental insurance from your employer, a private insurer or TRICARE Dental following your release from active duty. If you would like additional information about TRICARE Reserve Select, select yes. 15a(3). VA Health Administration VA disability compensation is a tax-free benefit paid to veterans as the result of injuries or illnesses that occurred during, or were made worse by, active military service. To receive this benefit, a veteran must be discharged under other than dishonorable conditions. VA pension is a benefit paid to low income earning veterans who are totally and permanently disabled or who are age 65 or older. You must have 90 days or more of active military service, at least one day of which was during a period of war. Since all veterans potentially could be eligible for VA health care, it is important to talk with a VA representative to determine your individual eligibility. 29

30 If you would like to know more about VA benefits select yes. 15a(4). VA Vet Center VA Vet Centers provide quality and caring re-adjustment counseling services to help you and your family succeed in your post-war adjustment. Vet Center care includes professional readjustment counseling, bereavement counseling, community education, outreach to special populations, and the brokering of services with community agencies. Vet Centers also link veterans with other VA services. There are specific eligibility requirements for these services. If you would like more information about Vet Centers, select yes. 15a(5). State and Local Health Care and Mental Health Services State departments of health promote public health policy initiatives, research and service programs. Generally, health encompasses behavioral and environmental health as well as physical well-being, illness and communicable diseases. Social service websites can include information and programs dealing with issues related to welfare, early childhood development, foster parenting, poverty, juvenile delinquency, sex offenders, aging, public assistance and rehabilitation. They also provide listings of private social service agencies. If you would like more information on State and Local Health, check yes. 30

31 15b. Healthcare and other benefits to which the member may be entitled under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs TRICARE is a Department of Defense managed healthcare program for active duty Service members, retirees and their families, and other eligible beneficiaries. TRICARE pays a percentage of allowable charges for covered health care services provided by authorized providers, after a yearly deductible. TRICARE has a catastrophic cap, or maximum, you will pay out-of-pocket for covered services. To receive this benefit, you and your family members must be enrolled in DEERS. If you currently are enrolled in TRICARE Prime, you will automatically be un-enrolled once you separate from active duty unless you contact the TRICARE regional managed care support contractor, or the local TRICARE service center, to re-enroll in TRICARE Prime. If you do not re-enroll, your transition coverage will be under TRICARE Standard. Dental care provided by the Department of Defense does not continue after separation. VA provides one-time dental care for veterans who apply within 90 days after separation if they have not received dental care within 90 days prior to separation. The TRICARE Retiree Dental Program offers comprehensive, cost-effective dental coverage for retirees and eligible family members. TRICARE medical and dental benefit information is available on the TRICARE website or from a TRICARE service center. If you plan to receive civilian health care under TRICARE, select yes. 15b(1). VA Health Care VA s medical benefits package makes standard enhanced health benefits available to all enrolled veterans. It emphasizes preventive and primary care and offers a full range of outpatient and 31

32 inpatient services within the VA health care system. Eligibility is based on active military service that results in a discharge under other-than-dishonorable conditions. Eligibility for veteran s health care is not just for those who served in combat or for veterans who have service-connected injuries or medical conditions. VA provides a broad range of medical, surgical and rehabilitative care and readjustment counseling to all qualified veterans. VA maintains an annual enrollment system to manage the provision of quality hospital and outpatient medical care and treatment to all enrolled veterans. A priority system ensures that veterans with service-connected disabilities and those below the low-income threshold are able to enroll in VA s health care system. Members of the National Guard and Reserve called to active duty by a Federal Executive Order may qualify for VA health care benefits. Returning Service members, including members of the Reserve Component, who served on active duty in a theater of combat operations have special eligibility for hospital care, medical services and nursing home care for two years following discharge from active duty. By attending a VA Benefits Briefing, you will learn about serviceconnected and non-service connected disabilities and how they impact both cost and access to VA medical services. If you want more information about VA Healthcare, select yes. 15b(2). VA Dental Care VA provides outpatient dental benefits according to eligibility criteria that, in some cases, are quite extensive and, in others, very limited. The VA website provides fact sheets on VA Medical Care and Dental Treatment. If you want more information about VA Dental care, select yes. 32