3 Essential Steps to Take Before Leaving the Military

First and foremost thank you for your service. Now, most of you dreamt of this moment of separating or pushing that retirement button but before you do there are things that need to get done.

And I'm not talking about planning your freedom from the service. Most people not just overlook these steps but think it’s okay because they did it 10 years ago, well news flash the medical records systems get updated very often and you want your records in the new system. 

#3: GO TO MEDICAL AND GET IT DOCUMENTED

Now, I know for some people this can be intimidating because of the implications this might have on your career in the service. But you’re getting out and secondly in my personal experience it was rather anticlimactic. What I mean is, they don’t really care, you won't get in trouble, and if anything they will give you medication for your issues. It is very important to have any of your problems documented and I mean anything! This will help speed up the process of those VA claims and give you a higher chance of a higher rating. 

#2: Know where you are going to live

Wanting to live in a certain area and knowing where to live are two completely different things with the ladder having a stronger foothold. The military will pay for your moving costs, both personnel and furniture costs. Take advantage of this. Create a plan of action and know where you will live so you can save a ton on moving costs. Not only does this save you money but having a solid plan is just good in general. 

#1 Filing BDD

Here’s the big fish. For the love of god please file your BDD or Benefits Delivery at Discharge. Filing BDD is currently the fastest way to get your VA benefits, usually VA claims can take up to a year but this program shortens it to 3 months at the least. Not only does it give you benefits at discharge, it is also easier to prove your issues are service connected because you're still in service. And from what I have seen up to this point, filing isn't the issue, it's getting your claims to be service connected. Now get out there and file.