Do You Have To Pay Back Your Military Bonus?
Every once in a while, a military member receives a bonus and then has to repay it, usually because they didn't fulfill the terms of the bonus agreement. And because taxes have already been taken out of that bonus payment, things can get a bit messy.
Do I have to pay back my enlistment bonus?
If you receive a bonus, you are on the hook for the term of your contract. You may owe a prorated refund to the government if you are unable to fulfill the terms of your contract. This will be based on the amount of money you have received and how much time remains on your contract.
Enlistment and Reenlistment Bonus Guide - The Military Wallet
Do military bonuses count as income?
Here's the key to the whole thing: bonuses are taxed like regular income. There are taxes withheld on bonuses like there are taxes withheld on regular pay.
Military Bonuses and Taxes
How does military bonus work?
Recruits who enlist for cash bonuses totaling more than $10,000 will receive their initial payment of $10,000 upon successful completion of initial entry training — basic training and job training. The remaining bonus amount will be paid in annual increments of up to $10,000 a year until the bonus is paid in full.
Army Enlistment and Re-Enlistment Bonuses - The Balance Careers
What if the army doesn't pay your bonus?
The initial payment of your Selective Re-enlistment Bonus (SRB) should take no longer than 30 days from the date of re-enlistment. If, after 30 days, you have not received your payment, you should contact your servicing finance officer, career planner, or admin or personnel office.
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