The complete guide to successfully transitioning from military to civilian life. Follow our proven 8-step process used by over 10,000 veterans to secure benefits, find careers, and build financial stability.
Optimal timeline for successful transition
Complete checklist with VA benefits, career, and financial steps
Support for military spouses and children
Veterans who complete this guide find employment within 6 months
Each step builds on the last to ensure you're fully prepared for civilian employment and benefits
Foundation planning and understanding your transition options
Collect and organize military records for VA claims and employment
File VA disability claims and understand veteran benefits
Maximize education benefits and choose civilian training programs
Translate military skills, network, use SkillBridge, and find civilian employment
Budget for civilian life and optimize military-to-civilian pay
Support military spouses and children through relocation
Complete final separation requirements and transition checklist
Military veterans who used this guide to successfully transition to civilian careers
Army • Seattle, WA
“Starting 18 months early made all the difference. I had time to learn new skills and build my network.”
Senior Software Engineer at Tech Company
Navy • Austin, TX
“The family preparation section helped my spouse and kids adjust. We felt prepared, not rushed.”
Project Manager at Fortune 500
Air Force • Denver, CO
“The financial planning helped me save 6 months of expenses. I could focus on finding the right job.”
VP of Operations at Startup
The DoD SkillBridge program provides up to 6 months of real-world work experience with industry partners while you're still on active duty - essentially a paid apprenticeship that leads to job offers.
SkillBridge is a DoD program that allows service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through industry apprenticeships, typically during their last 6 months of service.
Pro Tip: Apply for SkillBridge 6-9 months before your transition date. Popular programs fill up quickly, especially in tech and healthcare.
Milivate helps match veterans with SkillBridge programs that align with your career goals and location preferences.
Explore SkillBridge ProgramsFree military transition tools to support your career change and benefit applications
Industry apprenticeships up to 6 months
Calculate your VA benefits and rating
Track your progress step by step
Plan your financial transition
Find your next career path
Explore education options
Join over 10,000 veterans who have successfully transitioned using our comprehensive guide and tools. Get personalized transition planning, VA benefits support, and career resources.
Popular Military Transition Resources:
