I signed a contract for the reserves earlier this year and took the oath, but I haven’t gotten any orders for DCC or BOLC yet. I’m starting to think I can’t make this work financially, especially if I get deployed. Supporting my family, paying insurance, and other expenses just doesn’t add up. Plus, I found out I’d need 10 years to transfer GI Bill benefits to my family. Does anyone know if I can still withdraw from the contract at this stage?
I think you can still back out if you haven’t started any training. Have you talked to your recruiter about it?
Bliss said:
I think you can still back out if you haven’t started any training. Have you talked to your recruiter about it?
Not yet. I’m worried they might say whatever just to keep me in. Should I bring up the financial stuff directly?
Bliss said:
I think you can still back out if you haven’t started any training. Have you talked to your recruiter about it?
Yeah, recruiters can be pushy, but it’s worth explaining your situation. They might offer options like deferment.
FYI, you’re not in the DEP program if you’re an officer candidate. That’s only for enlisted folks.
Keegan said:
FYI, you’re not in the DEP program if you’re an officer candidate. That’s only for enlisted folks.
Oh, good to know! I wasn’t sure if it applied since I haven’t started training yet.
Keegan said:
FYI, you’re not in the DEP program if you’re an officer candidate. That’s only for enlisted folks.
Yeah, officer candidates are a whole separate track. No DEP for you.
About the GI Bill—did you mean transferring benefits to your family? That does take 10 years, but you can use it earlier.
Rory said:
About the GI Bill—did you mean transferring benefits to your family? That does take 10 years, but you can use it earlier.
Oh, I thought it was 10 years for any benefits. So I could use it myself sooner?
Rory said:
About the GI Bill—did you mean transferring benefits to your family? That does take 10 years, but you can use it earlier.
Yup, you’re eligible for some benefits after 90 days of active duty. Full benefits kick in at 36 months.
If you do your 4 years in the reserves, they’ll probably put you in the IRR after that to finish your 8-year obligation. You don’t have to apply for it; it’s automatic.
Harper said:
If you do your 4 years in the reserves, they’ll probably put you in the IRR after that to finish your 8-year obligation. You don’t have to apply for it; it’s automatic.
Ah, I see. Does that mean I wouldn’t be called back for anything during IRR?
Harper said:
If you do your 4 years in the reserves, they’ll probably put you in the IRR after that to finish your 8-year obligation. You don’t have to apply for it; it’s automatic.
Not unless there’s a big need, like a national emergency. IRR is usually just paperwork unless something major happens.
You should ask about an administrative separation if you’re sure you can’t stay in. Better to sort it now than later.
Fintan said:
You should ask about an administrative separation if you’re sure you can’t stay in. Better to sort it now than later.
Yeah, I guess it’s better to address it now before I get orders or start training.
Fintan said:
You should ask about an administrative separation if you’re sure you can’t stay in. Better to sort it now than later.
For sure. Once you’re fully in, it gets harder to leave without consequences.