Military life presents a unique path with a host of benefits that can greatly enhance the lives and futures of those who choose to participate. Becoming a new member of the military service can open the door to potential perks, from financial bonuses to educational opportunities, healthcare coverage, and professional development. If you've recently joined or are contemplating enlisting, understanding the potential benefits for new military members can be a significant factor in your decision making.
Please note that the specifics of these benefits can vary depending on the branch of the military you have joined (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Space Force), whether you're enlisted or an officer, or whether you serve full-time or in the reserves.
Financial Benefits
Arguably the most direct utility for new military members are the financial benefits. These come in several forms, and while the starting pay may not be high, remember that most of your living expenses will be covered.
Basic Pay: Your basic military pay depends upon your rank and length of service. Calculated monthly, it's directly deposited into your bank account.
Housing and Subsistence Pay (U.S.): Most servicemembers receive Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) to cover living costs. These amounts depend on your location, pay grade, and dependents.
Tax Benefits:* In the military, certain pays are tax-free like BAH and BAS, and you may also qualify for other tax advantages.
Special Pay:* for certain assignments, you might qualify for special pay. This can include things like flight pay, hazard pay, or submarine duty pay.
Educational Benefits
Through a variety of programs, the military provides ample opportunities for new recruits to further their education.
Post-9/11 GI Bill: This generous program pays the full cost of in-state tuition and fees for public colleges and universities (or a chunk of the cost of private or foreign schools), plus a housing stipend, for up to 36 months. It may also be transferred to dependents.
College Loan Repayment Program (LRP): Some enlistees may qualify for the College Loan Repayment Program, where the military pays off a portion of their student loans.
Tuition Assistance (TA) Program: The military also offers the Tuition Assistance Program, covering 100% of tuition expenses.
Healthcare and Insurance Benefits
Enrolling in the military provides access to comprehensive coverage for new recruits and their families.
Tricare Health and Dental Insurance: Almost immediately, you'll be covered by the military's healthcare program, Tricare, along with your eligible family members. Tricare includes medical and dental coverage.
Life Insurance: Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance provides affordable coverage up to $400,000 for the member and up to $100,000 for the spouse.
Retirement Benefits
The military offers a blend of retirement benefits, including a traditional pension and a Thrift Savings Plan.
- Blended Retirement System (BRS): If you joined after January 1, 2018, you're automatically enrolled in the BRS, which includes a pension for those who stay 20 years or more and TSP contributions for all members.
Professional and Personal Development
Lastly, military service offers numerous paths for personal and professional development.
Valuable Skills Training: After basic training, you'll go to an advanced training school specializing in a specific skill or job which can be useful in civilian life.
Travel Opportunities: Military members often have opportunities to travel, whether as part of their service or via Space-A flights available for free or at a low cost to service members.
Fitness and Recreation: As a service member, you have access to gyms, pools, bowling alleys, horse stables, campgrounds, and other recreational facilities on post.
These are just the baseline benefits for new military members. Additional benefits could include childcare, legal assistance, shopping privileges at discounted rates on base exchanges and commissaries, and more. Remember, the specifics may vary based on your installation, job, and other factors.
Before embarking on your military journey, it's worthwhile to research these benefits and understand what's available to you. While military life may be challenging, it also comes with perks and opportunities that few other careers can offer. Embrace them, and they can contribute to a rewarding and fulfilling future.
