Question 1

GI Bill Enrollment

Accepted Answer

The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits worth over $100,000. You have the option to contribute $1,200 for the Montgomery GI Bill as a backup. This decision cannot be reversed later.

Question 2

SGLI Beneficiary Designation

Accepted Answer

Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance provides up to $400,000 in coverage for about $25/month. Designate your beneficiaries immediately — the default may not be who you'd choose.

Question 3

TSP Contributions & Fund Selection

Accepted Answer

The Thrift Savings Plan is your military 401(k). Under BRS, the DoD matches up to 5% of your base pay. Start contributing immediately — even 5% from day one compounds significantly over a career.

Question 4

Document Every Injury and Illness

Accepted Answer

Every sick call visit, every injury report, every medical complaint creates a record that supports future VA disability claims. If it's not documented, it didn't happen in the VA's eyes.

Question 5

SCRA Protections

Accepted Answer

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act caps pre-service debt interest at 6%, provides foreclosure protection, and allows lease termination. Activate these protections immediately upon entering service.

Question 6

JAG Services

Accepted Answer

Free legal services available to all service members: wills, powers of attorney, tax assistance, consumer protection, and legal consultations. Use them — they're a significant benefit.

Question 7

Emergency Contacts & DEERS

Accepted Answer

Ensure your DEERS record is accurate and all dependents are enrolled. This determines eligibility for TRICARE, commissary, base access, and survivor benefits.