ARMY RESERVE

SERVING IN THE ARMY RESERVE

SERVING WHEN NEEDED

Unlike active duty, Army Reserve Soldiers serve part time, allowing them to earn an extra paycheck, go to school, or work a civilian job while still maintaining many of the benefits of military service.

WHAT IS THE ARMY RESERVE?

The Army Reserve is the Army’s pool of extra resources and personnel. Reserve Soldiers perform critical Army jobs on a part-time basis.

WHEN WILL I SERVE?

You will spend one weekend a month on duty and two weeks a year in training. Soldiers in the Army Reserve may be called to active duty to provide their expertise. Your total service contract length in the Army Reserve may range from three to six years, depending on your Army Reserve job.
Learn more about Army Reserve deployment.

WHERE WILL I LIVE?

Unlike serving on Active Duty, you will be able to live anywhere in the United States. If you are planning on attending college or advancing within your civilian career, Army Reserve service will provide you with the flexibility to live where you choose.

WHAT'S THE PAY LIKE?

Even though you will spend a limited amount of your time on duty, Army Reserve Soldiers earn competitive salaries, and have access to a wide range of benefits. As a Private, for example, you will make more than $3,000 a year, and you’ll receive health care, retirement and education benefits. As you move up in rank, your pay increases.

Learn more about Army Reserve pay

Simply signing up as an Army Reserve Soldier may qualify you for a list of bonuses and incentives, including a skills bonus, Officer Candidate School bonus, and a translator aide bonus.
Learn more about Army Reserve bonuses

Part of the benefit of becoming a Soldier in the Army Reserve is the free time you will have to accomplish your goals. In the Army Reserve, not only will you have time to complete school, but you’ll have the money for it too. Soldiers qualify for a variety of education funding opportunities for their military service, including the Montgomery GI Bill Kicker, the Army Reserve Education Assistance Program and more.
Learn more about Army Reserve education programs

DO ARMY RESERVE GET DEPLOYED?

Generally, Active Duty Soldiers are the ones who are deployed overseas, while Army Reserve Soldiers fill their positions at home, but there are times of great need when Reserve Soldiers may be deployed.