Can I switch my contract from a non bonus job to a bonus job?

Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 14:38:35 -0400

So I enlisted in May of this year to be a 91b with airborne training. It's a 4 year contract. I saw the army is offering a bonus for infantry and I want to switch. I got an 87 on my asvab and qualify for most jobs. I'm supposed to ship in a few weeks on August 12th, 2019. Any advice would be appreciated.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2019 2:50 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 14:50:44 -0400

You are going to have to have a conversation with your Recruiter about this

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Jul 24 at 2019 3:05 PM

SFC J Fullerton — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 15:05:10 -0400

Contact your recruiter about a renegotiation to your contract. It is possible, but since you are under 30 days to your ship date, it is a little more complicated because it is now a higher approval authority. Bottom line is the Army would rather keep you for a different job than to lose you altogether as a DEP loss, so more than likely it would be approved.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2019 4:03 PM

Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 16:03:35 -0400

My recruiter said I could change, but I wouldn't get a bonus because I've technically already committed to the army. I'm hoping if I stand my ground I can still get the bonus, but if i cant get the bonus I'll keep my original contract for 91b airborne.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2019 10:22 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 22:22:20 -0400

If your only motivation to be an Infantryman is a bonus then you need to re-evaluate your decision. But yes you can try and you should get the bonus. You also will most likely have a later ship date if you choose to go through with this.