How much of a 20k enlistment bonus will I actually see?

Larry Fajardo — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 14:52:03 -0400

Is an enlistment bonus worth it? How much do I actually get ?
My state NG has 10 mos jobs available all with 20k enlistment bonus. I was going to sign a reserve contract this week but the multiple job opportunities & enlistment bonus is drawing me in.
My State reserve only offers one job & no bonus.

Thanks again for the help.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2018 3:31 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 15:31:23 -0400

You will likely see a hit by the IRS for about 40% in Taxes, plus an additional amount for State/local taxes based on where you live. You'll likely get some back when you file next year.

I'd estimate you'll probably see somewhere from $12-14K after your Basic and AIT is complete. I'd opt for the National Guard, if no reserve bonus is available.

Just a clarification- the Army Reserve doesn't really have a state. The Army Reserve is a Federal Reserve force of the US Army, with about 195K in total forces vs. 330K+ for the National Guard (which is state by state & territories). Army Reserve Soldiers are stationed in all 50 States and most territories & even overseas. Just FYSA.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Jun 18 at 2018 3:37 PM

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 15:37:49 -0400

I received a 20k bonus when I enlisted. I received 10k up front and 3k every year after that for three years. Taxes removed, I received about 7k initially and right about 3k each year; I was deployed for two of those years so I got the full portion those two times.

Response by SPC Toby Bradford made Jun 18 at 2018 4:12 PM

SPC Toby Bradford — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 16:12:54 -0400

I think the extra money is worth it if you will be happy with that particular mos. I got a bonus in 2009 and certainly helped my family out.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jun 19 at 2018 11:35 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 11:35:32 -0400

Damn- you know the IRS will get up to 20% before it hits your hands, and maybe the State as well. It is your call- serve or cash.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2018 11:11 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 23:11:48 -0400

FICA TAX on a bonus is 33% then depending on if your state has an additional income tax on bonuses you may end up loosing 35-38% for taxes. you will probably see approximately 12,500-13,000 total.