By MyArmyBenefits Staff     October 2026

You’re getting closer to retirement, and now is the perfect time to make sure your plans are taking shape. If you completed the 36–24 Months Before Retirement Checklist, you’ve already checked off some important milestones—exploring the retirement planning resources on the Soldier for Life (SFL) website, connecting with your Retirement Services Officer (RSO) and Transition Assistance Program (TAP) office, building your retirement timeline, setting aside savings for transition expenses, and talking through your plans with your spouse and family. You’ve also used the MyArmyBenefits State/Territory Benefits Fact Sheets to compare where you might want to live after retirement and the Benefit Calculators to estimate your retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) costs. If you’re still working through those steps, take a few minutes to review the previous Change of Mission retirement planning article.

Now, let’s look at how MyArmyBenefits can help you during the 24–18 months before retirement phase:

Enroll in retirement and transition programs. Review the Army Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and Army Retirement Services Program fact sheets. If you’re an Active Component or drilling National Guard or Army Reserve Soldier, register for TAP and an Army Retirement Planning Seminar. Army National Guard and Army Reserve Soldiers are required to attend an Army Retirement Planning Seminar.

Review service obligations before selecting your retirement date. If you expect to complete a permanent change of station (PCS) before retirement, be sure to understand any additional service obligations that could affect your timeline. Certain benefits, such as transferring, or planning to transfer, Post-9/11 GI Bill education benefits may require added service commitments.

Update your retirement estimates. Revisit the MyArmyBenefits Retirement Calculator and SBP Premium Calculator to refine your projected retired pay and SBP costs. As your retirement date gets closer, your estimates will become more accurate.

Research your retiree health care options. Compare TRICARE plans available after retirement, including TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Select, TRICARE Select Overseas, and TRICARE Retired Reserve, if applicable. Depending on your location and personal circumstances, you may also qualify for other TRICARE programs. Be sure to review the TRICARE and VA Dual Eligibility fact sheet if you expect to receive care through both systems.

Evaluate your life insurance needs. Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage generally ends 120 days after retirement unless you qualify for an SGLI Disability Extension. Eligible retirees can apply for Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI) within 1 year and 120 days of retirement. You should also compare commercial life insurance options and determine what best fits your family's long-term financial needs.

Keep your family involved. Retirement affects the entire family. Continue discussing plans with your spouse and loved ones, including where you'll live, employment goals, finances, health care, and other priorities as you prepare for your next chapter.

As your retirement date gets closer, continue using the Army Retirement Services Program and the Retirement Planning section on the Soldier for Life website to stay on track.

MyArmyBenefits remains a valuable resource for benefit information, planning tools, and state-specific resources to help you make informed decisions. With thoughtful planning and preparation, you'll be well positioned for a successful transition from military service to retirement.