Can I leave the Army before my separation date?

So I’ve got my separation date from the Army coming up, but I was wondering if there’s any way to leave earlier? Like, are there any situations where they might let you out before your set date?

Yeah, I think it’s possible in certain cases. Like, if you’ve got a job lined up already, you might be able to request it. They’ll probably want some proof from your new job though.

Wilder said:
Yeah, I think it’s possible in certain cases. Like, if you’ve got a job lined up already, you might be able to request it. They’ll probably want some proof from your new job though.

Oh really? So, I’d need to show a job offer or something like that?

Wilder said:
Yeah, I think it’s possible in certain cases. Like, if you’ve got a job lined up already, you might be able to request it. They’ll probably want some proof from your new job though.

Exactly! They usually ask for details, like if it’s full-time, your start date, and maybe even how it’d mess up things if you stayed longer. They’re sometimes flexible up to 180 days before your actual end date if it’s a solid job offer.

You could also check out something called a ‘hardship discharge’ if you’ve got family issues or some kind of serious personal situation. They consider cases like that too.

Vega said:
You could also check out something called a ‘hardship discharge’ if you’ve got family issues or some kind of serious personal situation. They consider cases like that too.

Hmm, hadn’t thought of that! Would something like a family member’s illness count for that?

Vega said:
You could also check out something called a ‘hardship discharge’ if you’ve got family issues or some kind of serious personal situation. They consider cases like that too.

Yeah, totally. If it’s a pretty severe situation and staying in would make it really hard to deal with, they could approve it. Just gotta go through the command with all the details.

I think there’s also an option if you’re going into a college or technical program soon. It might only work if you’re within 90 days of your separation, though.

Dru said:
I think there’s also an option if you’re going into a college or technical program soon. It might only work if you’re within 90 days of your separation, though.

Oh, so they’d let you out early to start school? That’s pretty cool if it’s a thing.

Dru said:
I think there’s also an option if you’re going into a college or technical program soon. It might only work if you’re within 90 days of your separation, though.

Yeah, it’s legit! Especially if it’s something that’s hard to reschedule, like a medical or specialized program. Just need acceptance proof.

Also, sometimes they’ll let people out early if it benefits the Army, like if they’re downsizing. But that one’s not as common, I think.

Poe said:
Also, sometimes they’ll let people out early if it benefits the Army, like if they’re downsizing. But that one’s not as common, I think.

Interesting! So that’s more of a ‘convenience of the government’ thing?

Poe said:
Also, sometimes they’ll let people out early if it benefits the Army, like if they’re downsizing. But that one’s not as common, I think.

Yep, exactly! Mostly depends on what the Army needs at the time. Doesn’t hurt to ask though!

Just remember that you’d usually have to put in a formal request with your chain of command. Might need a DA Form 4187 or something like that.

Ollie said:
Just remember that you’d usually have to put in a formal request with your chain of command. Might need a DA Form 4187 or something like that.

Good to know! Looks like I have some paperwork ahead if I decide to go for it.

Ollie said:
Just remember that you’d usually have to put in a formal request with your chain of command. Might need a DA Form 4187 or something like that.

For sure! But if it helps you out, it’s worth it. Best of luck!