How spouses can prepare for their Soldier to retire

By MyArmyBenefits Staff

As Soldiers plan and build timelines to retirement, spouses need to remember that you are retiring from the Army life as well and it is the time to begin planning what comes next for you. Is that pursuing a higher education? Starting or continuing a career? Or even starting your own business. We recommend beginning to plan 36 months out from the planned retirement date as some programs available to you as a spouse are only available while your Soldier is still on active duty.  

To start exploring options, visit the MyArmyBenefits Military Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) fact sheet for an overview of some of the available programs. 

If you are interested in higher education, the Mrs. Patty Shinseki Spouse Scholarship Program provides needbased scholarships to assist spouses of active duty and Retired Soldiers, and surviving spouses, in obtaining an undergraduate degree.  

The Post 9/11 GI Bill is another benefit that may include coverage of expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and supplies. It can also include a stipend or monthly housing allowance, depending on the individual situation, and can be transferred to eligible family members enrolled in DEERS.  

Finally, be sure to check your state benefit fact sheet for various state scholarship programs that may offer tuition assistance, scholarships, and other programs for veterans and their Family members.  

If you are looking in another direction and wanting to start or continue your career, the Employment Readiness Program operated through Army Community Service (ACS) Centers helps Soldiers, spouses, Family members, and others by providing information on job search skills, education, training, transition, and volunteer opportunities.  

If you are looking to continue in your field and are hoping for some assistance with professional licensing, look no further! The Spouse Professional Licensure and Certification Reimbursement provides up to $1,000 of reimbursement for eligible expenses resulting from relocation.  

Remember that retirement is not a sprint, but a marathon. Along with all the other planning and preparation that must happen ahead of retirement, it takes time to complete a job search or apply for college. Make sure you start at least 36 months out from retirement to set yourself up for success.  

Check out the MyArmyBenefits website for federal and state/territory benefit information and retirement planning calculators and follow our Instagram page for benefit updates and helpful information.