Transition to Civilian Life for Veterans
Returning to civilian life after military service is different for every person. Luckily, there are resources available for every need.
Getting help with your transition — best places to start
DoD Transportal
Created by the Department of Defense exclusively for transitioning service members, this site explains the transition process in detail. It offers career guidance, advice on how to manage transition-related paperwork, and links to helpful services nationwide.
Minnesota Veteran
A full-service website for Minnesota veterans, this site connects you to county veteran service officers (CVSO), who work with veterans to navigate the transition process.
Veterans Services
A guide to programs assisting Minnesota veterans with transition, employment, and business ownership, this site has links to Local Veterans Employment Representatives (LVER) and Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Representatives (DVOP). Published by the Minnesota Dept. of Employment & Economic Development.
Beyond the Yellow Ribbon
The Minnesota National Guard's reintegration program, including unit, family, and community reintegration
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Serves Minnesota veterans, their dependents and survivors. The VA can provide information about local Vet Centers, Regional Offices, and Medical Centers.
Employment support for veterans and Guard/Reserve members
Jobs for Veterans Program
Job development, training assistance, and one-on-one counseling to veterans throughout the 7-county Twin Cities Metropolitan Area and the 4-county St. Cloud Area
Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)
Promotes cooperation and understanding between Reserve component members and their civilian employers
Transition support for special needs audiences
Incarcerated and Ex-Offender Veterans
Transition program details, a guide for planning your release, and information on receiving benefits while incarcerated
Disabled Veterans
An extensive list of programs and services to help veterans and service members with service-related disabilities
People with Disabilities
A comprehensive collection of resources, services, and valuable links to information for those with disabilities
Women Veterans
Access to resources especially for female veterans, including the VA's Center for Women Veterans
Homeless Veterans
Products and services available to help homeless veterans and those at risk of becoming homeless
Help with benefits, health issues, and relocation
Government benefits
An online questionnaire that lets you determine what housing, education, food, and financial assistance benefits you may be eligible for
Veterans ON-line APPlication (VONAPP)
An online application administered by the VA that lets veterans apply for compensation, pension, vocational rehabilitation, and education benefits
Health & Emotional Support
Links to resources to help with post-traumatic stress disorder, overcoming addictive behaviors, and other health issues
Relocation Resources
Links to help with all aspects of a move, including entitlements and benefits, points of contact, and employment and education resources
Obtaining military and civilian records
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
Obtain official copies of military papers such a separation or discharge papers (DD Form 214), medical or health records
Department of Defense
Obtain Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET; DD-2586) records to help you prepare a resume or fill out applications for college or civilian vocational training
