Anyone know if I can leave the Army before my separation date?

I’ve got my official separation date set, but I’m wondering if there’s any way to leave the Army a bit earlier? Trying to cut ties sooner if possible. Anyone gone through this?

Usually, you’ve gotta serve till that date unless there’s a specific reason, like medical discharge or a hardship. You could try for terminal leave if you have enough saved up.

Freddie said:
Usually, you’ve gotta serve till that date unless there’s a specific reason, like medical discharge or a hardship. You could try for terminal leave if you have enough saved up.

Thanks, I’ll look into terminal leave. Got a couple of days left and was hoping I could cut out sooner.

Freddie said:
Usually, you’ve gotta serve till that date unless there’s a specific reason, like medical discharge or a hardship. You could try for terminal leave if you have enough saved up.

Yeah, terminal leave can be a good option if you’ve got the leave saved. Worth asking your CO.

There’s also something called voluntary separation programs (VSP) that the military sometimes offers if they’re downsizing. Not sure if it applies to you, though.

Brady said:
There’s also something called voluntary separation programs (VSP) that the military sometimes offers if they’re downsizing. Not sure if it applies to you, though.

Interesting, I didn’t know about that! Not sure if they’d consider it since my date’s so close.

I heard about hardship or dependency discharge. Basically, if staying in causes issues for family or dependents, you can ask for an early exit. Is that your situation?

Glenn said:
I heard about hardship or dependency discharge. Basically, if staying in causes issues for family or dependents, you can ask for an early exit. Is that your situation?

Nah, it’s not a family issue or anything. Just wanna be out ASAP lol.

FYI, you might be able to request an expedited process if you’re on extra duty. But honestly, it depends on your command and local rules.

Phoenix said:
FYI, you might be able to request an expedited process if you’re on extra duty. But honestly, it depends on your command and local rules.

Didn’t think of that! I’ll ask, but knowing my CO, not holding my breath.

If you’ve got a set date, chances are slim for early out, but maybe ask your CO if they can speed things up. No harm in trying.

Remy said:
If you’ve got a set date, chances are slim for early out, but maybe ask your CO if they can speed things up. No harm in trying.

True! Sometimes they’ll work with you if you explain why you wanna leave sooner.