The Army Just Doubled the Retirement Request Window to 24 Months

As of April 2026, a permanent directive signed by Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll has officially doubled the voluntary retirement request period to 24 months, replacing the traditional 12-month timeline. This shift gives Soldiers a much longer time to prepare and transition into a successful civilian career.

Who Qualifies for the Two-Year Window?

To take advantage of the 24-month window, service members must have completed at least 18 years of Active Federal Service (AFS). While the program is widely open to the force, it does include additional oversight for senior leadership.

Service members in the ranks of Lieutenant Colonel through Colonel, Chief Warrant Officer 4 and 5, and Master Sergeant through Command Sergeant Major will need a written plan submitted by their commander. This plan ensures you balance your daily unit duties while stepping into your two-year retirement process.

Navigating Retirement Restrictions

A key restriction within the policy is that Soldiers cannot submit a voluntary retirement request if they are already under consideration for a new assignment or have already received Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. This assures that Army staffing needs remain stable.

However, service members with 19 or more years of service who received moving orders may continue to request retirement instead of the move. To be approved for this option, the request must be submitted within 30 days of the assignment, and you must set a retirement date that falls within the following 12 months.

A Two-Phased Retirement Process

Service members can start their paperwork early, but the physical transition doesn’t start until their final year of service. Once your retirement request is approved, you get early access to Transition Assistance Program resources and counseling.

During this phase, between 24 and 12 months, you can start working on administrative paperwork and mental preparation. Additionally, you are still on active duty and must report to work as usual.

The execution phase happens during the final 12 months of service. During this period, you are allowed to complete hands-on activities that are permitted. This includes participation in the SkillBridge Career Skills Program, house-hunting, and terminal leave. This allows you to get a head start on your transition while still fulfilling your commitment to the force.

Why This Policy Matters

By providing a two-year retirement window, the Army aims to improve its personnel forecasting while ensuring Veterans are positioned for success once they retire.

The ultimate goal is to ensure every retiring Soldier leaves the service as a capable ambassador for the Army, equipped with the time and resources necessary to build a stable future.

For more information on starting your request, please reach out to the U.S. Army Human Resources Command or contact your local Retirement Services Officer.