Can the National Guard (Indiana) make you pay for gear out of pocket?

2017-04-17T21:22:50-04:00

I am being forced to go to an MOSQ course. I was missing tons of stuff(not at my own fault, just didn't have, mostly uniforms). Asked unit supply and they weren't able to get it for me. Yet they were required items. I spent around 800 out of pocket and they don't want to reimburse me. Is there anyway I can seek repayment or do anything about this?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2017 9:35 PM

2017-04-17T21:35:29-04:00

You should have your initial issue if those items are unserviceable you need to DX them. Your unit should supply all of your TA50. I would talk to your first line leader and go from there.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Apr 18 at 2017 7:33 AM

2017-04-18T07:33:35-04:00

Are you saying that you were shorted on your initial issue of uniforms? Since most of that is issued at Reception, I would find that odd. While on the Reserve side the uniform allowance sucks, it's supposed to replace any damaged or worn out uniforms. If it's field equipment (TA50 in my day)that you are required for school and isn't on your hand receipt, you are not financially responsible and the unit should accept responsibility to fill your shortages since they are sending you to that school.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2017 11:05 PM

2017-04-18T23:05:02-04:00

Most likely, you will not be able to be reimbursed for those items. The good news is that you can write those items off on your taxes, if you itemize deductions.

Response by SSG Dale London made Apr 20 at 2017 8:41 AM

2017-04-20T08:41:12-04:00

If it was lost in combat or made unserviceable in the line of duty you may have recourse to replacement at government expense. Other than that... If it's on your hand receipt and it's not in your duffel bag it comes out of your pocket. Period.
Now, if it was a mandatory issue item that you did not receive and you were made to buy it at your own expense to fulfill a military requirement, I recommend you complain up the chain. Failing that - the IG is your best recourse.