Today's Military:

Military Pay and Benefits FAQ

If you cannot find the answer to your question, please contact a recruiter.

How long are people entering the Military obligated to serve?
The length of commitment depends greatly on the chosen Service, required training and a number of other variables. Military personnel may retire after 20 years of service and must retire after 30 years of service. It’s best to contact a recruiter to get a clearer picture of what a potential servicemember’s specific situation would call for.

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Are there shorter enlistment commitments available?
Though technically not a “shorter” commitment, the Two-Year Enlistment program is available for some services. Contact a recruiter for more information on Two-Year Enlistment.

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What’s the difference between the National Guard and the Reserves?
The National Guard serves both states and the nation in general, whereas the Reserves serve only the national military services. National Guard units assist the country in times of need. Reserve units are activated specifically for military missions, primarily abroad. National Guard members can receive educational benefits that may vary from state to state, in addition to the Post-9/11 GI Bill. It’s important to understand that the National Guard is considered an extension of the reserve component.

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What is the pay rate for different ranks and Services?
Base Pay at each rank is the same across all Services, but many factors affect what a servicemember will actually earn. To get a better idea of potential salary and benefits, try our compensation page.

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Do servicemembers have to pay for health care?
Health care is provided to full- and part-time members of the Military as part of their service commitment.

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What do military health care programs cover?
There are slight differences in the scope of coverage, depending on your status and service branch. For more information on health care coverage and other benefits, visit our compensation page page.

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Can a servicemember get a degree while serving?
Yes. The Military provides assistance for a wide range of educational opportunities for its personnel. Continuing one’s education while serving does require extra work but can pay huge dividends for the future. For more information, visit our education support page.

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Will the Military pay for my education?
Qualified Service personnel can receive tuition benefits of up to $4,500 per fiscal year. For more information, visit our education support page.

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