ARMY DIR 2026-08 — Permanent Change To Timeline For Requesting Voluntary Retirement From Active Service
ARMY DIR 2026-08 governs the timeline and policy for Soldiers requesting voluntary retirement from active service.
- Publication number: ARMY DIR 2026-08
- Title: PERMANENT CHANGE TO TIMELINE FOR REQUESTING VOLUNTARY RETIREMENT FROM ACTIVE SERVICE
- Date: 04/17/2026
- Proponent: ASA (M&RA)
- Status: ACTIVE
View ARMY DIR 2026-08 on armypubs.army.mil
It sets eligibility and ineligibility criteria, review requirements, and limits for voluntary retirement requests. It also addresses utilization plans, transition activities, approval authority, and the directive’s duration.
Applies to: This directive applies to the Regular Army, Army National Guard/Army National Guard of the United States, and the U.S. Army Reserve.
Topics covered
- Voluntary retirement request timelines
- Retirement eligibility
- Retirement request ineligibility
- Utilization plans
- Transition activities
- Retirement disapproval authority
Questions and answers
How early can Soldiers submit voluntary retirement requests?
Effective immediately, Soldiers may submit voluntary retirement requests under this directive at least 12 months, but no more than 24 months, before their requested retirement date. (paragraph 4)
What are the eligibility requirements for voluntary retirement?
Soldiers can request voluntary retirement if they are currently on active duty (including the Active Guard Reserve program pursuant to Title 10 or Title 32 of the United States Code), have at least 18 years of active Federal service (AFS), and be able to complete all service obligations by the requested retirement date. (paragraph 4)
When may Soldiers with 18 years of active Federal service be unable to submit a retirement request?
Soldiers with at least 18 years of AFS may not submit a voluntary retirement request if they are actively being considered for a future assignment or have received official notification of a permanent change of station (PCS), including placement into an assignment market or consideration for a nominative position. (paragraph 4)
Can Soldiers request retirement instead of a permanent change of station?
Soldiers who are otherwise ineligible due to assignment consideration or PCS notification and who have at least 19 years of AFS may request retirement in lieu of the PCS within 30 days of notification. (paragraph 4)
What must the written utilization plan include?
The plan will include proposed duties and utilization to ensure continued meaningful employment of the Soldier throughout the approved transition period. (paragraph 4)