Intro
Discover the 5 ways to leave the Air Force, from honorable discharge to military retirement. Learn about the Transition Assistance Program, separation pay, and education benefits to ease your transition to civilian life. Explore your options and plan a smooth departure from the Air Force with this comprehensive guide.
Separating from the Air Force can be a complex and daunting process, especially with the various reasons and methods available. Whether you're looking to transition back to civilian life or explore other opportunities within the military, understanding your options is crucial for a smooth and successful separation. In this article, we will explore five ways to leave the Air Force, highlighting the benefits, requirements, and steps involved in each process.
1. Expiration of Term of Service (ETS)
The most common way to leave the Air Force is through the Expiration of Term of Service (ETS). This occurs when your enlistment contract or commission ends, and you are not re-enlisting or extending your service. ETS is a straightforward process, but it's essential to plan ahead to ensure a smooth transition.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to return to civilian life or pursue other career goals
- Eligibility for veterans' benefits, including education assistance and healthcare
- Potential to receive a re-enlistment bonus or other incentives
Requirements:
- Complete your enlistment contract or commission
- Submit a request to separate through the Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC)
- Meet with your career advisor to discuss post-separation plans
Steps:
- Begin planning your separation at least 12-18 months prior to your ETS date
- Update your records and complete any necessary training or certifications
- Attend a Transition Assistance Program (TAP) workshop to prepare for civilian life
2. Voluntary Separation
Voluntary separation, also known as "getting out," allows Airmen to leave the Air Force before their ETS date. This option is typically available for those who have completed their initial enlistment contract or have served for a minimum number of years.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to leave the Air Force early and pursue other goals
- Potential to receive a separation bonus or other incentives
- Eligibility for veterans' benefits, including education assistance and healthcare
Requirements:
- Meet the eligibility criteria for voluntary separation, including time in service and performance requirements
- Submit a request to separate through the AFPC
- Attend a mandatory counseling session with your commander or career advisor
Steps:
- Review the Air Force Instruction (AFI) 36-3206, Voluntary Separation, to determine eligibility
- Submit a request to separate through the AFPC, including a statement of reason and supporting documentation
- Attend a mandatory counseling session to discuss the implications of voluntary separation
3. Administrative Separation
Administrative separation, also known as "admin sep," is a process used to separate Airmen from the Air Force for various reasons, including performance, medical, or disciplinary issues. This option is typically used when an Airman is no longer suitable for military service.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to separate from the Air Force and pursue other goals
- Potential to receive a separation bonus or other incentives
- Eligibility for veterans' benefits, including education assistance and healthcare
Requirements:
- Meet the eligibility criteria for administrative separation, including performance or medical requirements
- Attend a mandatory counseling session with your commander or career advisor
- Submit a request to separate through the AFPC
Steps:
- Review the AFI 36-3206, Administrative Separation, to determine eligibility
- Attend a mandatory counseling session to discuss the implications of administrative separation
- Submit a request to separate through the AFPC, including a statement of reason and supporting documentation
4. Medical Separation
Medical separation is a process used to separate Airmen from the Air Force due to medical conditions that render them unfit for duty. This option is typically used when an Airman's medical condition is severe enough to prevent them from performing their duties.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to receive medical benefits and compensation
- Eligibility for veterans' benefits, including education assistance and healthcare
- Potential to receive a separation bonus or other incentives
Requirements:
- Meet the eligibility criteria for medical separation, including medical requirements
- Attend a mandatory counseling session with your commander or career advisor
- Submit a request to separate through the AFPC
Steps:
- Review the AFI 36-3206, Medical Separation, to determine eligibility
- Attend a mandatory counseling session to discuss the implications of medical separation
- Submit a request to separate through the AFPC, including a statement of reason and supporting documentation
5. Transitioning to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve
Transitioning to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve is another option for Airmen who want to continue serving in the military while also pursuing civilian career goals. This option allows Airmen to drill part-time and maintain their military benefits.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to continue serving in the military while pursuing civilian career goals
- Maintain military benefits, including education assistance and healthcare
- Potential to receive a transition bonus or other incentives
Requirements:
- Meet the eligibility criteria for transitioning to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve, including time in service and performance requirements
- Attend a mandatory counseling session with your commander or career advisor
- Submit a request to transition through the AFPC
Steps:
- Review the AFI 36-3206, Transitioning to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve, to determine eligibility
- Attend a mandatory counseling session to discuss the implications of transitioning
- Submit a request to transition through the AFPC, including a statement of reason and supporting documentation
In conclusion, there are various ways to leave the Air Force, each with its benefits and requirements. Understanding your options and planning ahead is crucial for a smooth and successful separation. Whether you're looking to transition back to civilian life or continue serving in the military, it's essential to review the eligibility criteria and steps involved in each process.
Gallery of Leaving the Air Force
Leaving the Air Force Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ETS and voluntary separation?
+ETS (Expiration of Term of Service) is when your enlistment contract or commission ends, while voluntary separation is when you choose to leave the Air Force before your ETS date.
Can I receive a separation bonus if I leave the Air Force?
+Yes, depending on the type of separation and your individual circumstances, you may be eligible to receive a separation bonus.
What is the process for transitioning to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve?
+The process involves attending a mandatory counseling session, submitting a request to transition through the AFPC, and meeting the eligibility criteria for transitioning to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve.