There is a good chance that you are joining the National Guard for many reasons. Above the rest, you are interested in serving your country. Along with this, you will receive world class on the job training that will prepare you for a better future.
While all of these are good reasons to join the National Guard, do not overlook one more detail: the generous benefits that you will receive. In short, when you join the Guard you will be taken care of from day one.
To learn more about National Guard benefits, as well as how to join, click here to request a free information packet.
When you serve in the National Guard you get a lot in return. To go along with the pride of serving your country and top flight training, you will receive a benefits package that is sure to put a smile on your face.
No matter who you are, the more benefits you receive at your job the more likely you are to be happy and work your hardest.
Below are some National Guard benefits to become familiar with.
National Guard Pay
As a soldier in the National Guard you are paid for everyday that you serve. No matter if you have just shipped out for Basic Training or are only serving one weekend per month, you are going to receive compensation. Along with this, every promotion will lead to more money in your paycheck.
Even though you will get paid for being part of the National Guard (as noted above), a little bit of extra money can go a long way ? no matter who you are. There are many ways to earn extra money. For instance, you can earn huge cash bonuses if you choose a career that offers these. For instance, health care professionals and officers are among the most popular job specialties for those seeking a bonus.
If you have questions about which jobs offer bonuses, speak with your local National Guard recruiter.
Money for Attending College
Thanks to the Montgomery G.I. Bill, you may qualify for up to 100 percent tuition assistance, along with a monthly stipend of $300 or more. Along with this, the National Guard offers several Enlisted Loan Repayment Programs. Depending on your career field, you may qualify for the Guard to payback up to $50k in student loan debt.
Don?t have a high school diploma? No problem. You can still join the National Guard with the help of the GED Assistance program.
In short, the National Guard knows just how important it is for soldiers to get a good education. This is why they offer so many related programs.
Options for Enlistment
Joining the National Guard is not ?one size fits all.? For this reason, they offer multiple enlistment options. For example, you can join the National Guard while you are still in high school ? thanks to the Split Training program. If you want to join but don?t have a diploma you can enlist with the help of the GED Plus program.
Even more Benefits
The above National Guard benefits are well documented. But did you know that there are even more of these to take advantage of? For example, as a member of the National Guard you can get free flights in the United States ? as long as a military plane with space is available when you are traveling.
Healthcare
In today?s day and age, healthcare is a hot topic. Fortunately, when you join the National Guard you are taken care of in this department. The Guard cares about the well being and health of soldiers and their families. You have the ability to purchase discount health coverage from TRICARE Reserve Select.
Life Insurance
Members of the National Guard are able to purchase life insurance plans, at a discount, with a death benefit of up to $400k. Along with this, family members can take advantage of Family Service members’ Group Life Insurance. This helps spouses and children of service members purchase low cost life insurance.
Discount Shopping
Did you know that members of the National Guard, as well as their families, enjoy discount shopping at military locations around the world? This can include everything from the commissary to tax free discounts at any Military Exchange.
Referral Bonus
The Guard Recruiting Assistance Program is a huge benefit, but one that many people are not aware of. Current soldiers, along with retired military members, can earn as much as $7,500 for referring an officer or $2k for a new recruit. As long as the person enlists and reports to basic training, you are paid. This referral program is one of the best you will find ? regardless of industry.
VA Home Loans
Let?s face it: buying a home in today?s world can be very difficult. As a member of the National Guard you may be eligible for a VA home loan. This means that you can buy a home with a very small or no down payment.
Federal Retirement Plan
You may not be thinking about retiring right now, but in the future it will be on your mind a lot. Even after you are finished serving, the National Guard will continue to pay you thanks to a top flight Federal Retirement Plan. You can add this to any pension and other retirement accounts that you have garnered.
For the latest information on National Guard benefits, click here for free advice or contact a local recruiter.