How To Retire From The Army

A difficult question that every veteran must face at some point in their career is how to retire from the army. Like retiring from any profession, there are certain protocols that must be followed to ensure a successful retirement from the Army. Let's take a look at some of the steps necessary for army retirement.

1. Inform your superiors. It is crucial that you inform the appropriate authority to ensure a smooth retirement from the Armed Forces. In the military, everything is thoroughly documented so allow time for paperwork processing and the necessary signatures for certain documents.
2. Finances. Get your 401k, Roth, mutual funds, stocks, savings, and other money market accounts properly funded. Pay off high interest credit cards, car loans, and other random bills. As future finances are planned, try not to depend on the retirement pension too much. Instead, find lucrative ways to earn interest in your  money and make new income. If applicable, find out about student loan forgiveness programs for soldiers. Finally, settle upon a  tentative retirement/discharge date and stick with it.
3. Finish up. Finish all of your started tasks in the best way possible. Make sure that any order given by superiors are followed through. If you live in subsidized military housing then give the appropriate notice to vacate the premises. Tie up any loose ends to ensure a successful checkout when that day comes.
4. Life after the Army. Behind finances, mental health is a good thing to think about. Mentally prepare yourself to retire from the Army. There will be no more vouchers for various things, official orders, and deployment. Instead of moving from place to place, you will need to choose an area to stay put. This is perhaps one of the hardest decisions to make. Remember to conduct the proper research in your ideal area of the country or world.

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