A straight-talking transition resource made by a Marine, for Marines — because nobody should figure this out alone.
You can complete TRS between 14 months and 180 days before your EAS (see MCO 1700.31). Your command will likely let this slip through the cracks — don't wait. Find your Unit Transition Coordinator (UTC) or go talk to your 1stSgt and get the ball rolling.
TRS will give you a checklist of what to bring. On Camp Pendleton, appointments are scheduled through EventBrite. At Capstone, the counselor emails your DD Form 2648 to your CO for signature. Print and keep copies — you'll need it at IPAC for your DD-214.
Go see your corpsman / BAS to get this started. You can begin your BDD (Benefits Delivery at Discharge) VA claim 180 days before your EAS — don't leave money on the table.
Talk to your S-1 or 1stSgt to get your checkout sheet — units typically issue it about a month before your departure date. You'll be running around getting signatures from people you've never met. That's normal. Get it done.
CIF / IIF Turn-In
Most problems at CIF happen because Marines show up completely unprepared. Schedule your appointment and print your gear list from the IIF website (CAC required). Go through the entire list before you even think about turning in. If missing something, buy replacements in town — match the NSN. Going FLIPL can delay your departure if you're tight for time.
I personally used these guys when I got out and it was one of the best decisions I made during my transition. After watching multiple Marines and friends get turned away at CIF over and over — wasting hours in line — I can tell you firsthand their service is worth every penny.
They were professional, thorough, and got all my gear turned in on the first try. They also had replacement items for gear I was missing at significantly better prices than anything in Oceanside. They handle everything from gas masks to plate carriers. Walk-ins welcome, 2–3 business day turnaround.
Coordinate with your S-1 or 1stSgt to get your OBI started on MOL — found under the Travel tab. The OBI determines your terminal leave, whether you're selling leave back, PTAD if applicable, and your actual departure date.
If you go on terminal leave or PTAD, you rate BAH and will see it on your next paycheck. Yes — even if you've lived in the barracks your whole contract and never rated it. The Corps is no longer providing housing, so you get the money. Factor this in when deciding whether to sell leave back.
You will go to IPAC a minimum of two times. IPAC needs at least 10 business days to process you — plan accordingly or you will not separate on time.
Camp Pendleton: 22 Area, across from the flight line. Retirees report to the second floor of the same building.
While at IPAC, ask them to generate DMO orders — these are your ticket to your final move. Head around the corner to DMO, then everything is processed through the DPS Website. It's older than MOL, so be patient. Pro tip: You can log into DPS with placeholder numbers to estimate your weight allowance and potential PPM payout before you have orders in hand.
Show up in civilian clothes. This is the visit where you turn in all documentation IPAC told you to bring and receive your DD-214. Before you sign anything — read your draft DD-214 and orders carefully. Check your awards, MOS, schools, and dates. Errors are your responsibility to catch.
Make a binder. Keep organized digital copies. On most phones you can scan documents directly in the Notes app. Update your MOL and MyPay password and personal email before you leave your installation.
The transition is one of the hardest things you'll go through. If you're in a dark place, please contact one of these resources — staffed by people who understand what you're going through, many of them veterans themselves.
Free, confidential, 24/7/365. You do not need to be enrolled in VA benefits or healthcare to call. If you're in crisis — use this now.
For benefits questions, healthcare, claims, and anything VA related. Available 24/7.
Free claims assistance, transition support, and financial aid. You don't need to be a member to get help from their service officers.
You served. You sacrificed. You are not forgotten — and you are not alone.