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Essential Benefits and Requirements of Joining the Military

Essential Benefits and Requirements of Joining the Military

So you’re thinking about joining the United States military? It’s a big decision, and there are a lot of things to consider before making your final decision. Many aren’t aware that there are several essential requirements of joining the military. This article will also discuss some of the specific benefits that are offered to members of the military, such as education benefits, travel opportunities, and tax-free allowances.

Requirements for joining the U.S. military include the following:

  • Age: Recruits be at least 17 years old (unless you are a part of the Delayed Entry Program, in which case you must be at least 17 years old, but no older than 24) and a maximum of 35 years old. 
  • Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident. Which means that you have a green card. 
  • Height: There are also height requirements for military service, and recruits must be within 5’0″ to 6’8″ tall for males and 4’10’ to 6’8″ tall for females. 
  • Health: Healthwise, recruits must be medically fit, which includes normal color vision, being able to pass a drug test. In addition, the military cannot accept individuals with certain medical conditions, including psoriasis, asthma, mental illness, and ADHD. If you’re wondering if you can join the military with diabetes? The answer is no. If you have a chronic health condition and are interested in joining the military, speak with a recruiter to determine the specific health rules to be enlisted.
  • Criminal record check: Finally, you are also required to pass the minimum ASVAB TEST requirement and have no criminal record.

The U.S. military offers many great benefits for service members. Here are just a few of the many benefits that are available to the military.

1. Education benefits

The military is one of the best ways to get your education paid for. The Department of Defense offers many different education programs, including the Post-911 GI Bill, which pays for tuition, fees, and housing costs at schools around the country.

2. Travel opportunities

One of the best things about joining the military is the opportunity to travel the world. The military offers free or discounted travel opportunities to members and their families.

3. Tax-free allowances

The military offers several tax-free allowances, including Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), and Overseas Cost of Living Allowance (COLA). This means that you don’t have to pay taxes on your income, which adds up to a significant amount of money when you’re deployed overseas.

4. A steady paycheck 

The military offers members access to a steady paycheck. While it may not be as much as what you could make in the civilian world, it will allow you to live comfortably while serving your country. 

5. Cash bonuses for military service

In addition to a steady paycheck, there are also some cash bonuses available to military members, including the enlistment bonus, reenlistment bonus, and special duty assignment pay.

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