COMDTINST 1000.4C — Military Separations

COMDTINST 1000.4C governs Coast Guard officer and enlisted member separations, discharges, retirements, and releases from active duty.

Search COMDTINST 1000.4C

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 1000.4C
  • Title: MILITARY SEPARATIONS
  • Date: 8/23/2024
  • Proponent: CG-1M1

View COMDTINST 1000.4C on armypubs.army.mil


It covers physical examinations, early separation, administrative separation, discharge types, resignation, reserve release, and separation boards. It requires specific reviews, records, notifications, service obligations, and procedures for separation actions.

Applies to: Before retirement, involuntary separation, or release from active duty (RELAD) into the Ready Reserve (SELRES or IRR), every enlisted member, except those discharged or retired for physical or mental disability, must schedule any necessary physical examination in accordance with Reference (f).

Topics covered

  • Physical examinations for separation
  • Enlisted members’ early separation
  • Reserve officer release
  • Administrative separation boards
  • Void enlistments
  • Discharge for minority
  • Discharge for unsuitability
  • Separation for cause

Questions and answers

How long are separation physical examinations valid?

All physical examinations for separations are good for 12 months. (paragraph 8-8)

What benefits apply to enlisted members separated early?

The member is entitled to a travel allowance and lump sum payment for leave and does not have to pay back a pro-rated portion of any reenlistment bonus the member previously received. (paragraph 1)

When can a Reserve officer receive early release?

Commander (CG PSC) will approve a request for release to inactive duty (RELAD) or early release from a Reserve officer who has not fulfilled their active duty obligation only under the conditions listed below. (paragraph 1)

What happens when a member is separated for a void enlistment?

When separation is directed, the member may retain pay and allowances previously received, but no further payments will be made, including those for unpaid pay and allowances for accrued leave. (paragraph 5)

What is required during probation for unsuitability?

Commanding officers will not initiate administrative discharge action for inaptitude, apathy, defective attitudes, unsanitary habits, or financial irresponsibility until they have afforded a member a reasonable probationary period to overcome these deficiencies. (paragraph 3)

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