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Joining the National Guard or reserves is a great way to combine the benefits of military life with civilian life. Reserve duty can also lead to military retirement after 20 years of combined active and reserve duty. 

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Service members holding a flag
Busting 12 Benefit Myths
March 1, 2023, 10:30 a.m. 7 minute read

Don’t know what to believe about transition assistance, Veterans Affairs benefits and entitlements? View the myths and the truth.
Service members study together
Reserve Component Transition Assistance Advisor Lookup
Nov. 3, 2022, 12:05 a.m. 1 minute read

Find your nearest DOD National Guard Transition Assistance Program advisor to get connected to benefits and services available to you after transition.
Soldier testing new technology
Re-enlist, Reserves, or Transition? 4 Things to Consider
Aug. 22, 2022, 9:53 a.m. 4 minute read

Maybe you’re just ending your first tour of duty. Maybe you’ve fulfilled your obligation to your country. Now, you’re at a crossroads—re-enlist, reserves, transition out? How do you know you’re making the right call?
Military personnel attend the Transition Assistance Program
Transition Assistance Programs and Resources
April 3, 2022, 10:21 a.m. 6 minute read

The military has an extensive array of services to help make your separation a success. If you’re an active-duty service member, National Guard and Reserve Component service member, or service member’s spouse, you can take advantage of these transition assistance resources and more.
service member at desk
How Members of the National Guard and Reserves Can Use the Official BRS Retirement Calculator
Dec. 2, 2021, 10:35 a.m. 11 minute read

Military members who serve their country as part of the National Guard or a branch’s reserve component may qualify for retirement benefits — including a Blended Retirement System pension and Thrift Savings Plan retirement payments. You can estimate what your potential retirement payments may be with the official BRS military pay calculator.
National Guard Salutes
Benefits for Members of the National Guard and Reserves
Sept. 29, 2021, 6:42 p.m. 6 minute read

Through programs like Military OneSource, the Department of Defense offers resources, services and tools to help individuals and families navigate civilian and military life. These benefits are designed to be accessible to those who don’t live near an installation. Learn what’s available so you don’t miss out.
Line of soldiers in training
How COVID-19 Changes Affect Training, Duty, Pay and Benefits for the National Guard and Reserve
April 5, 2021, 9:30 a.m. 5 minute read

As changes due to coronavirus disease 2019 continue, reservists and members of the National Guard may wonder how they will be affected. Get questions and answers on sheltering-in-place orders, self-monitoring and other changes may affect your training, duty, pay and benefits.
Service members in helicopter
About the Reserve Component Transition Assistance Advisor Program
Nov. 4, 2020, 8:02 a.m. 3 minute read

Learn about the Reserve Component Transition Assistance Program’s vision and mission, plus transition support and more.
Two service members speak with a woman
Joining the Military as a Reservist: Eligibility, Obligation and Benefits
Sept. 14, 2020, 1:48 p.m. 6 minute read

Joining the Reserve Component of the military is a great way to serve your country. You will also earn valuable benefits without giving up your civilian employment or schooling.
VA benefits for National Guard
Veterans Affairs Benefits for National Guard and Reserve Members
April 15, 2020, 2:13 p.m. 3 minute read

Guard and reserve members are entitled to benefits and services offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, just like their active-duty counterparts. The VA can help Guard and reserve members cover the cost of school, secure a home loan or acquire life insurance.
Service member smiling.
Is Your Next Step Joining the Reserves? Get the Basics.
Feb. 21, 2020, 5:22 p.m. 3 minute read

More than one in four active duty service members tell us they intend to join the reserves. It can be a great option for lots of service members.