Begin Actively Transitioning 18 – 24 months before your Target Transition Date: a. Start saving… We would recommend having enough saving to cover living expense for at least 3 to 6 months. In additional to being sound advice, it gives you the flexibility to be more selective in your JMO transition. b. Save up as much leave as possible. Another buffer to help you in the transition is having leave saved up that allows you to actively engage in the interviewing process or move while still earning pay from the military. You can accrue up 2 to 3 months.