Veterans & Transition
Leaving the Navy: A Transition Timeline From 24 Months Out
A month-by-month plan for separating or retiring — when to start TAP, when SkillBridge and VA claims open, and what to do at each stage.
Leaving the Navy well
Veterans & Transition
Planning a separation or retirement: timelines, resumes, benefits starting points and civilian career moves.
2 guides
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Danian C. Douglas
Veterans & Transition
How to Translate Navy Experience Into a Civilian Resume
Turn ratings, qualifications and collateral duties into language a civilian hiring manager understands — with before-and-after examples.
Veterans & Transition: common questions
When should I start planning my transition?
The Transition Assistance Program is meant to start no later than 365 days before you separate, and retirees are encouraged to begin about two years out. Starting earlier gives you more options.
Is this benefits or legal advice?
No. We outline how programs work and link to official sources. For a claim or a decision about your benefits, work with an accredited Veterans Service Officer or the VA directly.
Do civilian employers understand Navy experience?
Often not without help. Translating ratings, qualifications and collateral duties into plain business language is the single most useful thing you can do on a resume.