Any chance the Army is going to push back the Selective Retention Bonus for Soldiers ETSing in FY 2018?

2017-03-01T12:23:03-05:00

I have an ETS of JUL2018, and just came down on orders to PCS . My retention NCO is saying that I have to re-enlist for at least 3 years to meet this requirement, or sign a DEC statement. I already qualify for a bonus for my MOS. Should I just accept that bonus, or wait and see if I could qualify for a bigger bonus I already lost my duty station option, so trying to make the most out of it.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Mar 1 at 2017 12:49 PM

2017-03-01T12:49:31-05:00

Waiting on something better is on the same level as saying "Hit me" in black jack and your already holding two face cards.
While getting a better hand is possible, the odds are against you.
By all means, look at all the options you have NOW, and choose wisely, but Id caution you on gambling something better will be along any day now. It might be,,,,,but a lot of folks have lost that bet

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2017 3:14 PM

2017-03-01T15:14:04-05:00

There's actually no waiting. By regulation you no more than 45 days from when you were placed on assignment to reenlist.
You don't have to sign a declination statement, your 1SG or CDR will just sign that you refuse to sign. Then you'll ETS and be eligible for the reserves.
Even if your Career Counselor is slacking, MPD or Levy won't cut your physical orders until after you've reenlisted.
Also the latest bonus just came into effect, you probably won't see a new one for another 6 months.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2017 5:38 PM

2017-03-01T17:38:48-05:00

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member I say take what you can now instead of waiting on what could be later.