For new recruits, the military offers a variety of enlistment incentives, including college money, Thrift Savings Plans, Civilian Skills Bonus, and Ranger Bonus. Because the military branches operate with an all-volunteer force, they rely heavily on incentives such as bonuses to attract qualified candidates. The majority of US Army stints last at least four years, but some can last up to 20 years, with full benefits after retirement.
The signing bonus and college tuition incentive attract many young people who are still in high school. On the Government Issue (GI) Bill, the US Army provides each recruit with the opportunity to take college courses for free. These classes are typically offered online, on military base campuses, or at nearby colleges. The recruit must pass all courses in order to receive tuition reimbursement. The Army offers signing bonuses to recruits who want to go into certain coveted job fields or join the Reserves after completing basic training.
Certain enlistees are eligible for the Thrift Savings Plan, which is an investment and retirement plan. Each year, it matches contributions up to a certain dollar amount. Enlistees can contribute as much or as little to their Thrift Savings Plans as they want, up to the IRS-mandated tax-deferred contribution limit. Enlistees who complete the Ranger program are also eligible for Army enlistment incentives.
Army enlistment incentives, such as signing bonuses, are available to civilians with specific skill sets. Religious training and medical training are two skills in high demand in the Army. These benefits are also extended to those who wish to join the US Army Reserves.
New recruits who agree to stay in the Army for two years and attend basic training within the next month are given a Seasonal — or Quick Ship — bonus. A high school diploma is required, as well as a score of at least 50 on the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).
After basic training and job training, the Army pays out Army enlistment incentives. If a recruit is eligible for more than $10,000, the first $10,000 is given after basic training, and the remaining funds are given after job training is completed. After basic training, if an enlistee is eligible for less than $10,000, the full amount is paid out.