Posted on May 25, 2021
Can the military kick you out for having too much money?
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If someone comes into a substantial amount of money, they can get out yes. But the military won't force them out.
Military. com has an article about it: https://www.military.com/military-life/what-happens-when-military-member-hits-jackpot.html
"No matter how one comes across a large sum of money, be it lottery winnings, inheritance or buried treasure, they can request a voluntary separation. In the Navy, this would be under "Separation by Reason of Best Interest of the Service." The Air Force has any number of provisions for leaving the service early; most of them include "the best interest of the Air Force." For the Army, it's a matter of "unusual situations" -- and, of course, the "best interests of the Army.""
Honestly I'd have to win the Mega Millions to get out. If I won $1 million, after taxes that's like $700,000. I'm not getting out with that. But at least I know I'd have enough to buy a house and be a bit comfortable when I did. My daughter has had lots of medical issues and, as a transplant recipient, always has to be on certain medication. So unless I'm hitting some big bucks I wouldn't get out.
However, if you have a security clearance and you come into money like that, you have to report it.
Military. com has an article about it: https://www.military.com/military-life/what-happens-when-military-member-hits-jackpot.html
"No matter how one comes across a large sum of money, be it lottery winnings, inheritance or buried treasure, they can request a voluntary separation. In the Navy, this would be under "Separation by Reason of Best Interest of the Service." The Air Force has any number of provisions for leaving the service early; most of them include "the best interest of the Air Force." For the Army, it's a matter of "unusual situations" -- and, of course, the "best interests of the Army.""
Honestly I'd have to win the Mega Millions to get out. If I won $1 million, after taxes that's like $700,000. I'm not getting out with that. But at least I know I'd have enough to buy a house and be a bit comfortable when I did. My daughter has had lots of medical issues and, as a transplant recipient, always has to be on certain medication. So unless I'm hitting some big bucks I wouldn't get out.
However, if you have a security clearance and you come into money like that, you have to report it.
What Happens When a Military Member Hits a Jackpot?
The prevailing wisdom says a military member has to leave the military when they win the lottery - but that's not necessarily true.
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SSG(P) (Join to see)
That's the same article I referenced but it seems to elude to the fact that the military may prefer that you separate. I was just looking for discussion on why this may be.
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SFC Kelly Fuerhoff
SSG(P) (Join to see) - If someone wins millions, and they were only in the military for financial security, well then there's no obligation for them to stay or to do even a good job if they do. Some people may not be worried about getting UCMJ action and getting docked in pay because they have those millions they won. So the military gives people the option to get out on good terms if they choose to and perhaps avoid that happening.
It could also make someone a target especially if they have a clearance. That's another aspect perhaps.
It could also make someone a target especially if they have a clearance. That's another aspect perhaps.
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???? Why would you want to stay in the military if you are "financially well off"? Enjoy life.
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SSG(P) (Join to see)
I think I would stay in. I'm in the guard and I most definitely do not stay in for the money that's for sure. The affordable health care add-on to my primary healthcare is a great benefit tho...
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I've had two millionaire soldiers work for me during my career. One won the lottery, and the other inherited his wealth. Both were very effective at their jobs. Throw them out? Hell, no. Now, if you got your wealth selling drugs or other such criminal nonsense, sure, you can be court-martialed and ultimately expelled from the service.
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I think it was back in 96 or 97. A newly arriving PFC to Fort Campbell spent $1, won $96 mil on lotto and was out in less than a week. I think the limit is around $6 mil. and they boot you out.
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