Secure your financial future with comprehensive transition planning tools
Tools designed for military pay structure, benefits, and transition challenges
Plan for both immediate transition needs and long-term financial goals
Built by veterans who understand military financial unique situations
See how our tools help you plan your financial transition from military to civilian life
Enter your specific pay, location, and goals for a complete transition financial strategy.
Create Your Financial PlanEverything you need to plan and execute a financially successful military transition:
Compare military compensation to civilian salaries including benefits and location factors
Plan and track expenses during your transition period including moving, job search, and emergency funds
Maximize your military retirement benefits and plan your second-career financial strategy
Calculate the long-term financial value of VA disability ratings and optimize your claim
Understanding the financial differences is crucial for successful transition planning:
| Category | Military | Civilian | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | Free TRICARE coverage | $400-800/month premium + deductibles | Major cost increase |
| Housing | BAH covers full housing costs | 25-30% of gross income recommended | Significant budget planning needed |
| Food | BAS + subsidized dining | Full grocery/dining costs | Moderate increase |
| Retirement | Defined benefit pension | 401k matching (if available) | Different planning approach |
| Job Security | Guaranteed employment | At-will employment | Emergency fund critical |
Many service members underestimate the financial impact of leaving the military. Beyond the obvious salary comparison, there are numerous hidden costs and lost benefits that can significantly impact your financial situation.
Our financial planning tools help you identify and plan for these costs, ensuring your transition doesn't create financial stress for you and your family.
Include base pay, allowances, benefits, and tax advantages to understand your actual income.
Understand salary ranges, benefits packages, and total compensation in your target location.
Save 6-12 months of expenses to cover transition period and unexpected costs.
Maximize disability ratings and understand the financial impact of VA compensation.
Budget for healthcare, retirement, and other benefits you'll need to replace.
Plan career progression and retirement strategy for your second career.
Navy Chief → Financial Advisor
"TAP-OS financial planning helped me save $30k during transition and negotiate a salary that matched my military compensation."
Army Captain → Corporate Manager
"Used the pay comparison tool to negotiate a package 40% higher than initial offer. Understood total value vs just salary."
Automatically incorporates your VA disability rating and compensation into your financial planning and retirement strategy.
VA Disability Calculator →Financial milestones sync with your transition timeline to ensure you're financially prepared at each step.
Timeline Planner →Salary negotiations and career planning integrate with your financial goals and budget planning.
Career Planning →Location-based cost of living analysis helps you make informed decisions about where to settle.
Location Tools →Start planning your financial transition with tools designed specifically for military service members.
Start Your Financial PlanWe recommend 6-12 months of expenses, plus transition-specific costs like moving, professional clothing, and potential income gaps. Our calculator helps determine your specific savings goal.
Look at total compensation including base pay, allowances, benefits, tax advantages, and job security. Our pay comparison tool calculates the true value of both military and civilian packages.
It depends on your debt interest rates and timeline. Generally, build a small emergency fund first, then focus on high-interest debt while building your transition savings.
