Question 1

Who should I talk to if I’m unsure about reenlisting or extending?

Accepted Answer

Your Retention Office is your primary resource! I can explain your options, review incentives, discuss career paths, and help you make an informed decision once your time to make a decision comes.

Question 2

When should I start thinking about reenlistment or extension?

Accepted Answer

Ideally 12-18 months before your ETS. This gives you ample time to explore potential incentives, career changes, education opportunities, and additional benefits.

Question 3

Can I do an extension instead of a reenlistment?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Extensions are often used to meet service requirements for bonuses, deployments, or education benefits. Some choose this option if they are on the fence about staying in the ANG as well, as it gives them extra time to think about their future.

Question 4

What do reenlistment bonuses look like right now?

Accepted Answer

Always come speak to me to discuss bonuses! Incentives change every FY, there are stipulations on who is eligible for these incentives, and they can also change during the FY if NGB deems it necessary. Do NOT discuss bonus eligibility with anyone but the ROM to ensure you are receiving accurate information!

Question 5

Are bonuses guaranteed?

Accepted Answer

NO. Bonuses depend on current FY funding, eligibility criteria, and contract timing. Always confirm bonus availability with ME before signing!

Question 6

What documents do I need to get my bonus?

Accepted Answer

You will need to stop by the retention office and complete an incentive eligibility verification worksheet when you get your notice of reenlistment from your CSS/section. The RSD AFTER your reenlistment, you need to come to the retention office again to sign your bonus contract and provide me with your DD Form 4 (if your CSS hasn't already sent it to me). Without the (1) incentive verification worksheet, (2) your bonus contract, and (3) your DD Form 4 from your reenlistment, your bonus will not be established. If not established by the end of the FY in which you reenlisted, you will no longer be eligible to get the bonus.

Question 7

What if I change career fields after signing a bonus contract?

Accepted Answer

Depending on whether you have been paid any portion of your bonus and what career field you go into, you may be subject to recoupment. Before making a career change, you have to meet with me so I can print a Career Change Worksheet for you. At this time, I will use our recoupment calculator and go over whether you will owe money back to the government so you can make an informed decision prior to proceeding with the career change.

Question 8

Can I change my AFSC if I reenlist?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. Retraining depends on unit needs, eligibility, ASVAB scores, medical clearance, and manning requirements.

Question 9

Can reenlistment help me promote?

Accepted Answer

Reenlistment itself doesn’t guarantee promotion, but it allows you to remain eligible for training, PME, and promotion boards (if applicable).

Question 10

Does cross-training into a bonus career field make me eligible for the bonus?

Accepted Answer

If at the time of your original enlistment you did not receive a bonus, you will not be eligible to get a bonus during that contract. You may still be eligible for retention bonuses once time comes for you to reenlist depending on the Incentive AFSC List for that FY.

Question 11

What education benefits are available in the Ohio ANG?

Accepted Answer

Members may be eligible for:
•	Ohio National Guard Scholarship Program (ONGSP)
•	Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB-SR)
•	Post-9/11 GI Bill (with qualifying active duty)
•	Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA)

Question 12

Will reenlisting increase my chances of deploying?

Accepted Answer

Not automatically. Deployments are based on mission needs and AFSC (amongst other requirements), but reenlistment ensures continued eligibility as long as you meet said requirements.

Question 13

How do deployments affect benefits?

Accepted Answer

Deployments may qualify members for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, VA home loans, and retirement points.

Question 14

What if I’m dealing with family, medical, or civilian job challenges?

Accepted Answer

The ANG offers flexibility and has so many resources available to our members! You can reach out to your First Sergeant for assistance. My door is also always open!

Question 15

Can I transfer units or wings within Ohio?

Accepted Answer

Yes, depending on vacancies and commander approval. Your CSS and the gaining unit's CSS can assist you with this process! My office will also have a role in this process to ensure any applicable incentives aren't affected by your transfer.

Question 16

What if I’m thinking about separating?

Accepted Answer

Come meet with me so I can go over your options, and explain any benefits you may keep or lose if you choose to separate.

Question 17

Can I come back after separating?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. The process for prior service return depends on time out of service, AFSC needs, medical eligibility, age, and the RE Code reflected on your NGB Form 22 and/or DD Form 214.

Question 18

How do I contact the Retention Office?

Accepted Answer

Office: 419-520-6587
Cell: 419-356-4982
Email: brittany.patton@us.af.mil
Book an Appointment: calendly.com/179retention

MSgt Brittany Patton!

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