Show Notes: Former VA Benefit Advisor, Kathy Gonzales, shares what to expect during, and how best to prepare for, the transition-retirement process. She discusses everything from disability and education benefits, to financial planning, to TAP classes, and covers all the best resources to utilize to make the transition to civilian life as smooth as possible.

Show Links:

• Online TAP Courses and Military Life Cycle Courses

• Office of Financial Readiness (retirement calculator, find a personal financial counselor, financial courses and tools):

• Department of Veterans Affairs

• Find a Veteran Service Officer

• Team Red, White, Blue

• Team Rubicon

• National Resource Directory Resources

• State Veterans Affairs Offices

• DoD TAP

• DFAS for Retirees

• DFAS for Retirees new to Retired Pay

• Department of Labor for Veterans

• Navy Transition - Retirement Resource Guide

Show Takeaways:

• Transitioning out of or retiring from active duty can feel overwhelming, but there are lots of resources available to assist you and your family in the process.

• Transition Assistance Program classes cover finances, VA benefits, disability benefits, education benefits, employer panels, and more. This information can be accessed anytime online.

• Begin preparing for this transition early - Longevity retirees especially should begin preparing medical documentation early.

• Veteran Service Officers, VFW, American Legion and more are available to assist with filing your claims.

Let’s Connect:

• NSFL Website

• NSFL Facebook

• NSFL Instagram