Intro
Unlock the rewards of serving your country with the US Army National Guard benefits and incentives. Discover education assistance, healthcare coverage, and career advancement opportunities. Learn how serving in the National Guard can boost your civilian career, provide student loan repayment, and offer Veterans Preference in federal hiring.
Serving in the US Army National Guard can be a highly rewarding experience, offering a unique blend of personal and professional growth, camaraderie, and service to one's country and community. While the sense of patriotism and fulfillment that comes with serving in the National Guard is invaluable, there are also numerous tangible benefits and incentives that can enhance one's quality of life and future prospects.
Education Benefits
One of the most significant advantages of serving in the US Army National Guard is the access to education benefits. The Guard offers several programs designed to help soldiers pursue higher education and career advancement, including:
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The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
This program provides up to 36 months of education benefits, which can be used to pursue a degree or certificate from an accredited institution. The benefits can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.
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The Army National Guard Kicker
This program offers an additional $350 per month in education benefits, on top of the MGIB-SR benefits. The Kicker can be used to cover expenses such as tuition, fees, and books.
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Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP)
This program offers up to $50,000 in student loan repayment benefits, which can be used to pay off existing student loans.
Healthcare Benefits
As a member of the US Army National Guard, soldiers and their families are eligible for comprehensive healthcare benefits, including:
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TRICARE
TRICARE is a comprehensive healthcare program that offers medical, dental, and pharmacy benefits to soldiers and their families.
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Medical and Dental Care
National Guard soldiers are eligible for medical and dental care at military treatment facilities, as well as through the TRICARE network.
Retirement Benefits
The US Army National Guard offers a range of retirement benefits, including:
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Retirement Pay
National Guard soldiers are eligible for retirement pay after 20 years of qualifying service.
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TRICARE for Life
TRICARE for Life is a comprehensive healthcare program that offers medical, dental, and pharmacy benefits to retired soldiers and their families.
Home Loan Guarantees
The US Army National Guard offers home loan guarantees, which can help soldiers purchase, build, or improve a home. The guarantees offer favorable terms, including:
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No Down Payment
National Guard soldiers may be eligible for no down payment home loans.
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Lower Interest Rates
The guarantees offer lower interest rates than traditional home loans.
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No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
National Guard soldiers may not be required to pay PMI, which can save thousands of dollars per year.
Employment Benefits
The US Army National Guard offers a range of employment benefits, including:
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Preference in Hiring
National Guard soldiers may receive preference in hiring for federal jobs.
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Training and Certification
The Guard offers training and certification programs that can enhance a soldier's employability.
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Career Advancement
National Guard soldiers can gain valuable leadership and management experience, which can enhance their career advancement prospects.
Special Pay and Allowances
The US Army National Guard offers special pay and allowances, including:
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Drill Pay
National Guard soldiers receive pay for drill periods and annual training.
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Special Duty Pay
Soldiers may receive special duty pay for performing specific duties, such as serving as a recruiter or instructor.
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Subsistence Allowance
National Guard soldiers may receive a subsistence allowance for meals and other expenses incurred during training or duty.
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What are the education benefits of serving in the US Army National Guard?
+The US Army National Guard offers several education benefits, including the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve, the Army National Guard Kicker, and the Student Loan Repayment Program.
What are the healthcare benefits of serving in the US Army National Guard?
+The US Army National Guard offers comprehensive healthcare benefits, including TRICARE, medical and dental care at military treatment facilities, and pharmacy benefits.
What are the retirement benefits of serving in the US Army National Guard?
+The US Army National Guard offers retirement pay after 20 years of qualifying service, as well as TRICARE for Life, a comprehensive healthcare program for retired soldiers and their families.
What are the home loan guarantees offered by the US Army National Guard?
+The US Army National Guard offers home loan guarantees, which can help soldiers purchase, build, or improve a home, with favorable terms including no down payment, lower interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance.
What are the employment benefits of serving in the US Army National Guard?
+The US Army National Guard offers employment benefits, including preference in hiring for federal jobs, training and certification programs, and career advancement opportunities.
We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the benefits and incentives of serving in the US Army National Guard. From education and healthcare benefits to retirement and employment opportunities, the Guard offers a wide range of advantages that can enhance one's quality of life and future prospects. Whether you're looking to serve your country, advance your career, or simply make a difference in your community, the US Army National Guard is an excellent choice.