During your military career, you’ve probably moved a few times – each one a new adventure. For active military, there may be many factors within the decision to re-enlist or separate from the service. If you are considering an Expiration of Term of Service (ETS) leaving the military, either at retirement or at their end of active service separation, a final move at government expense is typically authorized. It’s important to become informed to make the most of your benefits.
ETS Resources
Make sure you are aware of your moving benefits One of your biggest relocation challenges is managing the cost of your move. You may be entitled to a number of benefits that include storage of household goods, travel allowances, and a per diem. Travel allowances and other final move benefits vary by service branch.
Military One Source website is part of of the U.S. Department of Defense’s network of support for the military community. Check out their site to learn about how to make your final military move a success.
An ETS move in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA), County Veterans Service Officers
The WDVA has County and Tribal Veterans Service Officers that are trained to assist Service members, Veterans, retired Service members and their Families find and apply for military/Veterans benefits under federal, state and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge. In Wisconsin the County Veterans Service Officers play a critical role in the veteran’s advocacy system and is often the initial contact in the community for veterans services. Each county in Wisconsin has a CVS Officer who is committed to providing a vital and efficient system of services and advocacy to veterans, dependents, and survivors.
Wisconsin Military and Veterans Benefits
Wisconsin offers special benefits for Service members, Veterans and their Families including a property tax credit, the Wisconsin G.I. Bill education benefit, state employment Veterans hiring preference, Veteran Job Retraining Grants, special vehicle license plates, as well as hunting and fishing license benefits. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
Honors Newsletter
The RSO publishes its annual retiree newsletter, HONORS each summer. The newsletter includes valuable information about retiree issues and benefits, as well as information about RADs being held throughout a five-state area. The latest edition of HONORS is available by clicking here.
U. S. Army Fort McCoy Retirement Services Office
The Fort McCoy Retirement Services Office is located near the Main Gate in building 35. Although walk-ins are welcome, appointments are suggested. The office is handicapped accessible. The Fort McCoy RSO can be reached by calling 608-388-3716 or by sending email to Retirement Services Office.
The RSO offers pre-retirement and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) briefings in a group or one-on-one setting.
A Retiree Appreciation Day (RAD) is conducted annually at Fort McCoy in September. The RAD features a morning session with guest speakers from organizations that affect military retiree living. The afternoon session is a benefits fair featuring display tables manned by representatives from a wide variety of military retiree and veteran-related organizations and activities.
Moving to or within Wisconsin? START WITH MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL
When military staff and their families relocate, the services of a Military Relocation Professional who understands their needs and timetables makes the transfer easier, faster, and less stressful.
