ALCOAST 027/26 - JAN 2026 UPDATED SEPARATION TYPES TO ALIGN WITH DOD SEPARATION PROGRAM DESIGNATOR (SPD) CODES

R 231945Z JAN 26 MID320018492197U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 027/26
SSIC 1000
SUBJ: UPDATED SEPARATION TYPES TO ALIGN WITH DOD SEPARATION PROGRAM
DESIGNATOR (SPD) CODES
A. Military Separations, COMDTINST 1000.4C
1. This ALCOAST announces an update to Chapter 2 of REF (A), which
changes the basis of separation for personality disorders and
adjustment disorders from Unsuitability to Convenience of the
Government. This policy update is required to administratively
align USCG separation policy with updated Department of War (DoW)
Separation Program Designator (SPD) codes.
2. SPD codes are utilized to classify separation types as well as
the allocation of veterans benefits. Due to DoW updates to the list
of approved SPD codes, minor policy changes are required to align
Coast Guard separation policy with currently authorized SPD codes.
3. Sections impacted by this change include 2.L and 2.O of REF (A).
Specifically, Chapter 2.O.2.b, 2.O.2.c, and 2.O.2.g are deleted,
and Chapter 2.L.1. is amended by adding the following sections:

"u. Personality Disorders. As determined by medical authority,
personality behavior disorders and disorders of intelligence listed
in DOD Instruction 6130.03, Volume 2;

v. Defective attitudes, adjustment disorders except chronic
adjustment disorders as listed in Reference (f) Chapter 5, inability
to expend effort constructively, or other observable defect for
which a separation designator code (SPD code) exists that renders a
member unsuitable for further military service, as determined by a
medical authority. Members may not be separated for chronic
adjustments disorder without being medically evaluated for possible
referral into the Physical Disability Evaluation System (PDES) per
References (e) and DOD Instruction 6130.03, Volume 2"

4. RDML Zeita Merchant, Assistant Commandant for Workforce
Management (CG-WM), sends.
5. Internet release is authorized.