Air Force Benefits...?

Question

Hi- next summer (after I graduate high school) I plan to enlist in the Air Force- if not sooner - as a translator. My aunt went in for Farsi, I hopefully for Japanese and Chinese.

All of my uncles are in the service, and several other family members, and have mentioned a "sign on bonus". I would like to know how much that would be. I am NOT signing on for just the money- there are so many opportunities and experiences that the service has to offer me. But I would like to buy a car, help my dad out and pay off some debts before I leave, and also go back to Japan for a few weeks to brush up my skills. I am just curious how much I might get so I know where to go from there.

Thanks so much!

Answer 1

If you qualify the bounus as a Crypto Linguist,  for a 4 year enlistment is  around $3000 , for a 6 year enlistment it is $12000.  That is taxed and you do not get it all at once.  it is spread out over your term of enlistment.  Not all languages qualify for the bonus.  You would need to speak to a recruiter to find out.    Most AF members DO NOT receive an enlistment bonus.  

All bonuses are subject to change without notice based on the current needs of the AF.