Enlistment Bonus

Enlistment bonuses vary by branch, MOS/AFSC/Rate, and contract length. They are taxable as regular income and typically paid in installments (e.g., half on graduation from AIT, half at the one-year mark). Any bonus guarantees must be written into the DD Form 4. Verbal recruiter promises are not enforceable. If you fail to complete your contract for a disqualifying reason, the military may recoup a prorated portion of the bonus.