Can a re-enlistment bonus be taken back if I transfer to a unit that does not have re-enlistment bonuses authorized?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 14:44:41 -0400

I have been selected to become a RTI 12B Reclass Instructor (honestly super excited about it) but not sure how the bonus payout works. I have not been reassigned yet, just started my new contract which comes with a bonus. However the RTI has told me they are not bonus authorized and that if I transfer before it is paid out I will not receive it at all. That has me wondering if I would have to pay it back if it is paid out and I leave a line unit? I have never, in my career, gotten a bonus and honestly the leadership I have asked in not sure the answer. This is a unique situation as I am still serving, still M-Day status but not in a line unit anymore??? Thoughts?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2022 3:22 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 15:22:01 -0400

Yes, your bonus can be recouped. USAR and ARNG bonuses are usually tied to specific slots in units. SGM Private RallyPoint Member just answered an almost identical question last week. He explains it a lot better than I do.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2022 3:33 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 15:33:19 -0400

In the Guard, your bonus is tied to both your MOS and the UIC (unit).
Simply by leaving your UIC (or MOS) you will no longer be eligible for the bonus.
RTIs are not authorized a bonus as they are TDA, not MTOE.

In some cases, like a command-direct, involuntary transfer, or an MTOE change, if you still end up in the correct MOS in an MTOE unit, you can retain your bonus if your ETP is approved by NGB.

In this case, you are going to a TDA unit, and if you were selected, it sounds like a voluntary lateral move, you don't meet any of the provisions for an ETP.
You will be eligible for a prorated amount of your bonus up to the day you leave your current position.