National Guard Officer Accession Bonus

[Matt1975]

I am a 2nd lieutenant in the National Guard currently finishing up MIOBC within the month. I have heard that there is an Accession Bonus, currently $10,000, for officers in the National Guard once they complete OBC. I know there are eligibility restrictions, however, I'm not sure exactly what they are. I actually took my commission in March 2004 and completed OCS (state program) in August 2001. In the interim I stayed active in the guard as an enlisted soldier. I'm not sure if date of OCS completion if a factor, or if being prior enlisted is either. Also, what further obligations does one incur upon receipt of the bonus? Any clarity on this would be greatly appreciated.

[matthew.ritchie]

This is an issue best raised with your chain of command or state Officer Strength Manager. Your commissioning date is the critical factor. You were commissioned prior to the bonus coming into effect, so you are not eligible. Since I just know you want to argue about that, take it up with someone in your state, since even if I agree with you I can't do anything for you.

For reference, the money carries a six year drilling obligation to the ARNG (any state).

[Matt1975]

Sounds great sir, thank you for the information. I'll follow up with my state OSM.