Why has everyone else at my unit received their bonus and I haven’t?

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Sep 2019 18:17:54 -0400

Long story short, enlisted with a 20k bonus. Everyone at my unit (even people who graduated classes behind me) have received their bonuses. I’m told it’s been at the last step before being released by DFAS since roughly June 20th. I feel like I keep getting placed on the back burner when I ask about it and frankly, I’m fed up. Contract states bonus to be paid within 90 days of IET completion, we are now approaching 180. Is there ANYTHING I can do to get my money? I’ve talked with Co Commander, 1SG, HR, education dept. down at JFHQ and I’m getting no where. Let me clarify that all of these people genuinely seem to care and I am not bagging on any of them. I just haven’t gotten results so I am here for guidance. Any input is appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2019 6:22 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Sep 2019 18:22:32 -0400

Have you submitted all the proper documents required once you got back IOT get the bonus payment? If you have, you can do a couple of options....

You can do a Pay Inquiry.
You can ask for your Commander to do a Pay Inquiry.
You can file a Congressional Inquiry (this is the last resort if all else fails)

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2019 9:52 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Sep 2019 21:52:55 -0400

1. Your Readiness NCO should be able to sit you down, open your bonus in GIMS on his screen and show you exactly where your bon is in the process. If it truly is pending DFAS, requiring no further confirmation, then there is truly nothing left to do but wait.
2. Those other Soldiers that graduated after you possibly did their paperwork before you did, not everyone ships exactly 4 months after contract, and/or your bonus might have cycled back for a correction a few months ago.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 23 at 2019 11:28 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 23 Sep 2019 23:28:19 -0400

One of your leaders should take you to finance to see what they have in their system. Leaders should fight for you. The local finance office should be able to paint the picture for you if the local finance or DFAS is remiss.

Response by CPL Gary Pifer made Sep 24 at 2019 7:30 PM

CPL Gary Pifer — Tue, 24 Sep 2019 19:30:08 -0400

Welcome to the real world...FYI...they don't care... unless you're part of the "In Crowd".... you do know the money is taxed??.. the funniest moments are watching the temper tantrums of those who got 1/2 a check... my advice...relax it will come...PS: dont let any woman know you've been paid.

Response by 2LT Earl Dean made Sep 26 at 2019 12:57 PM

2LT Earl Dean — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 12:57:04 -0400

If all else fails ask for a bag to help you get answers

Response by 2LT Earl Dean made Sep 26 at 2019 12:58 PM

2LT Earl Dean — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 12:58:07 -0400

Stupid phone! That was JAG not bag! Sorry!