Private soldiers and lance corporals can earn themselves an extra £8,000 if they sign up for another three years of service on top of their first four.
But troops have to apply for the cash – it isn’t awarded automatically. And they must do so in a specific three-month window – the financial quarter in which they enter their third year of service.
The scheme applies to regular personnel only – not reservists.
Eligibility has recently been widened to include those who joined up between September 1, 2021 (previously January 1, 2022) and September 30, 2024.
Maj Josh Harding (RTR) from the Renumeration Policy team commented: “With almost 3,000 payments available each year we didn’t want a situation where people who joined at the end of the financial year could miss out due to us maxing out our budget.
“That is why there is a strict three-month window – it gives everyone equal chance regardless of when they joined up.
“The first tranche was really popular, with nearly 800 individuals applying through the Digital Transfers app, and we widened the eligibility to include those who just missed out when we launched in January.
“Troops should apply quickly when their time comes to avoid disappointment.”
Retrospective or advance applications are not permitted so being aware of the timeframe you need to apply in is vital.
A Modnet or Armymail email account is required and applications must be made via Digital Transfers on the Career Management Portal. Personnel are advised to speak with their regimental career management officer for guidance before starting the process, however.
One implication of taking the cash – especially for those thinking of quitting – is that you cannot give notice to terminate your service until you have completed the return-of-service period – unless an exceptional case is granted by the Army Employment Board.
Those permitted to leave, or who are compulsorily discharged, during this time will also be liable to repay the money in full, and may be retained by the army until repayment is complete or the period of outstanding return-of-service is done.
