Does it usually take longer than a month to receive a reenlistment bonus?

2020-08-21T13:15:27-04:00

My ETS date was Jul 13 and I was told by my retention NCO that it was processing but should take no longer than 30 days, it is now Aug 21 and still nothing, I called DFAS and was told that they did see any payment in their system. Is it usually longer than 30 days and about how long should it be before I get concerned.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2020 1:33 PM

2020-08-21T13:33:53-04:00

Check the terms of the bonus.
I have had a few held up because it required Soldiers to complete ASI producing schools. Most of my NCO positions require Battle Staff.

Also, many times it requires a manual entry by finance to initiate the payment. Other times, it doesn't kick in until the current contract expires.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Aug 21 at 2020 2:05 PM

2020-08-21T14:05:53-04:00

With bonuses etc., always look at the contract and what it says. Make sure that it HAS a bonus on it first. If it does, look at the terms. Some list bonus payment as contingent upon completion of a school or MOS.

And actually waiting a month is not bad. That is fairly quick.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2020 4:11 PM

2020-08-21T16:11:36-04:00

Make sure that your new ETS date is showing in your ERB. If your bonus is not attached to a school completion (ie Reclass) it usually it’s sent to DFAC Finance and should arrive to your account between 30-60 days. Also check your ETP plan and make sure that under your allotments is showing the correct percent for bonus, if applicable.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2020 4:50 PM

2020-08-21T16:50:17-04:00

Go to your unit, make your Readiness NCO show you in GIMS what step your bonus is at.
If he can, you'll see what level of validation your payment is pending, somewhere between State and NGB if DFAS can't see it.
If he is unable to do that, odds are your bonus is waiting on the first of five steps, Unit Level validation, and your Readiness NCO either doesn't have access to do that or doesn't know how to do it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2023 8:12 AM

2023-07-19T08:12:52-04:00

Same situation. Re up was on may 20. On Jul 1 I was told “ a few more days” then after sending me on the run around I was told 3 more weeks on July 20th. This is my last time signing up as this delay has put me in a financial bind