I have written more than once about preparing for Veterans benefits before there is an urgent need. This week’s message starts even earlier—before someone becomes a Veteran.
The Department of Veterans Affairs recently introduced the Know Before You Go Workbook, a companion resource for the Transition Assistance Program (TAP). It provides a timeline and checklist to help transitioning service members and their families prepare for VA benefits and services before leaving military service.
This article may not apply directly to many readers, but there is a good chance you know someone currently serving. Send them this article, take a picture of it, or simply tell them to search for VA’s Know Before You Go Workbook.
Planning should start early. VA recommends beginning TAP about one year before separation, or two years before retirement. The workbook begins 12 months before separation and continues through the first year afterward. It includes reminders to establish a VA.gov account, gather medical records, review benefit options, coordinate health care, and track important deadlines.
One of the most important opportunities is the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program. Eligible service members may file a VA disability compensation claim between 180 and 90 days before separation. That window gives VA time to review medical records, schedule examinations, and begin evaluating the claim before active duty ends.
Another seemingly simple task deserves attention: review the draft DD-214 before it is finalized. Verify personal information, service dates, rank, military occupation, awards, discharge characterization, and separation information. Errors can affect future benefits and are usually easier to fix while still serving.
Also, gather copies of military and civilian medical records, document health conditions, and replace your .mil email address with a personal address on important accounts before losing access. These are small steps now that can prevent much larger headaches later.
The transition from military to civilian life already involves enough change. There is no reason to add avoidable benefit problems to the list. Know what you need before you go, use TAP, and start asking questions while the people, records, and resources you need are still close at hand.
The Know Before You Go Workbook is available through VA’s Transition Assistance Program website at discover.va.gov/transition-programs
Scam Alert: Veterans are receiving fake “Veterans Savings Program” postcards promising additional VA benefits. Do not call the listed number or provide personal information. Verify suspicious communications directly with VA at 800-698-2411.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or Vets@LakeCountyMN.gov
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@cookcountymn.gov
