Reenlisting in the Army with Prior Service: What You Need to Know
Reenlisting in the Army can be a great opportunity for those who have previously served to continue their military career, gain new skills, and take advantage of the many benefits that come with military service. If you’re considering reenlisting with prior service, it’s essential to understand the requirements and process involved.
Benefits of Reenlisting with Prior Service
Reenlisting with prior service can offer a range of benefits, including:
- Advantage in Promotion: Prior service members can pick up where they left off in terms of rank and promotion potential.
- Increased Pay: Reenlistment with prior service can result in higher pay grades and special pays, such as hazardous duty pay or language proficiency pay.
- Education Benefits: Prior service members can take advantage of education benefits, including the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) and the Post-9⁄11 GI Bill.
- Healthcare Benefits: Reenlistment with prior service can provide access to comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and pharmacy coverage.
- Specialized Training: Prior service members can receive specialized training in their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) or retrain in a new MOS.
Requirements for Reenlisting with Prior Service
To reenlist with prior service, you must meet specific requirements, including:
- Time in Service: You must have served in the Army for at least 90 days to be eligible for reenlistment with prior service.
- Honorable Discharge: You must have received an honorable discharge from your previous service.
- Medical Qualification: You must meet medical qualification standards for reenlistment.
- Background Check: You must pass a background check and obtain a security clearance, if required.
- MOS Qualification: You must meet the qualification standards for your desired MOS.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reenlisting with Prior Service
The reenlistment process for prior service members involves several steps:
- Determine Eligibility: Contact your local Army recruiter or the Army Human Resources Command to determine if you’re eligible for reenlistment with prior service.
- Update Records: Ensure your military records are up-to-date, including your personnel file, medical records, and performance evaluations.
- Take the ASVAB: Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test to determine your MOS qualification.
- Complete Medical Screening: Undergo medical screening to ensure you meet medical qualification standards.
- Attend a Reenlistment Ceremony: Attend a reenlistment ceremony, where you’ll sign your reenlistment contract and take the Oath of Enlistment.
Important Considerations for Prior Service Members
Before reenlisting with prior service, consider the following:
- Time-in-Service: You may be able to pick up where you left off in terms of time-in-service, which can impact your retirement eligibility and pay grade.
- MOS Availability: Certain MOSs may be available only to prior service members, so it’s essential to research and explore your options.
- Special Programs: The Army offers special programs, such as the Prior Service Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) program, which can provide additional education benefits.
🔍 Note: Prior service members may be eligible for special programs and benefits, such as the Army's Prior Service Recruit Program (PSRP), which offers expedited enlistment processing and special pays.
Reenlistment Bonus and Special Pays
Prior service members may be eligible for reenlistment bonuses and special pays, including:
- Prior Service Enlistment Bonus: Up to $20,000 for prior service members who reenlist in certain MOSs.
- Selective Reenlistment Bonus: Up to $90,000 for prior service members who reenlist in critical MOSs.
- Language Proficiency Pay: Up to $1,000 per month for prior service members who possess language proficiency skills.
Conclusion
Reenlisting in the Army with prior service can be a great opportunity to continue your military career, gain new skills, and take advantage of the many benefits that come with military service. By understanding the requirements and process involved, you can make informed decisions about your future and take the first step towards reenlisting with prior service.
What are the benefits of reenlisting with prior service?
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Prior service members can take advantage of education benefits, increased pay, healthcare benefits, and specialized training, among other benefits.
What are the requirements for reenlisting with prior service?
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Prior service members must meet specific requirements, including time in service, honorable discharge, medical qualification, background check, and MOS qualification.
How do I determine my eligibility for reenlistment with prior service?
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Contact your local Army recruiter or the Army Human Resources Command to determine your eligibility for reenlistment with prior service.
