FY26 Bonus Policy Update

Learn about the FY26 Selective Retention Bonus (SRBP) policy change, including deferred payments and reenlistment flexibility for Marines.

New Policy Alert Regarding Bonus Opportunities

Key Change Overview

IMMEDIATE APPROVAL

• Old Process: Marines often waited weeks or even months for SRBP funding before their reenlistment was approved, causing frustration and uncertainty.

• New Process: The Marine Corps will now approve reenlistment requests immediately—even if SRB funds aren't yet available—ensuring Marines get a timely response and can move forward with their career plans.

Deferred Payment

• New Policy: Payment of the Selective Retention Bonus (SRB) will be deferred and made when funding becomes available. Marines will secure their bonus amount at the time of reenlistment, even if actual payment occurs later.

• What This Means: Your contract is locked in, and your bonus is guaranteed—you just may receive the funds at a later date, no later than September 30, 2026.

Flexibility

• If Not Paid by Sep 30, 2026: Marines will have the option to either continue serving and await payment or separate from the Marine Corps.

• Separation Option: If unpaid by that date, you will have 90 days to request separation with your discharge based on your service characterization. The Marine Corps is providing flexibility to meet your needs.

Security

• Worried About Promotions or Zone Changes? Don’t be. Once you reenlist and your SRB is approved, your bonus is secure—even if you get promoted or move into a new bonus zone.

• Peace of Mind: Your contract amount won’t change, regardless of administrative updates to your pay grade or MOS eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can a Marine expect to be paid their SRBP?

Marines will be paid in order of execution unless directed otherwise.

If the Marine is not paid, when and how do they get out of their contract?

Marines must wait until 30 Sep 2026 and, If not paid by then, Marines will have 90 days to submit a request to MMSR-2 for separation.

If the Marine elects to separate, what type of discharge will they receive?

Marines who elect to separate will receive a discharge based on their characterization of service.

Can a Marine choose to stay past 30 Sep 2026?

Yes. Marines who have not been paid their SRB/Kicker may choose to stay past 30 Sep 2026.

If I choose to stay, will I still be paid?

Yes. If a Marine chooses to stay past 30 September 2026, they will be paid as soon as funding is made available.

If I change bonus zone or promote out of a bonus, will I still be paid?

Yes. The moment a Marine reenlists, they secure the SRB and/or Kickers that were approved. A grade change or bonus zone change does not affect the approved amount on the reenlistment contract.

If I am a Marine with an EAS before 1 October 2025, can I still reenlist?

Yes! If you still desire to stay Marine, go see your local Career Counselor and submit a RELM to see what your options are. Even if your MOS is closed, the opportunity to extend into FY26 exists, and your request will still be considered by HQMC.

MARADMIN 191/25

SUBJ: FISCAL YEAR 2026 SELECTIVE RETENTION BONUS PROGRAM AND FISCAL YEAR 2026 BROKEN SERVICE SELECTIVE RETENTION BONUS PROGRAM

POC

Maj McGee (MPP-20), TEL: 703-784-9362
Email: mark.mcgee2@usmc.mil
MSgt Foster (MMEA-1), TEL: 703-432-9120
Email: clifford.foster@usmc.mil

REMARKS

1. Purpose. This MARADMIN announces the Selective Retention Bonus (SRB) Program and the Broken Service SRB (BSSRB) Program authorized for enlisted Marines reenlisting in Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26). Marines with an Expiration of Current Contract (ECC) from 1 October 2025 to 30 September 2026 are encouraged to thoroughly review the contents of this MARADMIN. The cancellation of the FY25 SRBP and BSSRBP at references (f) and (g) are cancelled effective 15 April 2025. Previously eligible FY25 reenlistment Marines that have not submitted for reenlistment to HQMC prior to 15 April will not receive a bonus.

2. Background. Retaining our most experienced and qualified Marines remains one of the service’s highest priorities. Retention goals are vital for shaping and sustaining the Marine Corps' enlisted force. Recent efforts put forth by commands and their teams during FY25 campaign proved successful, achieving historic retention levels. It is imperative the Marine Corps builds upon this success and continues to prioritize retaining our most valuable asset – the best and most talented Marines.

3. Eligibility. Marines who reenlist on or after 16 April 2025 are eligible for the FY26 SRB. Eligibility includes:

3.a. Any regular component first-term or career Marine with an ECC from 1 October 2025 to 30 September 2026.

3.b. The BSSRB Program, as defined in reference (c), is suspended for FY26. Prior service regular component Marines who reenlist back into the active component with less than a 4-year break in service between regular component contracts will not be eligible to receive a BSSRB.

For the complete details including MOS tables and all bonus values, please visit the full MARADMIN at:
https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/4154104/fiscal-year-2026-selective-retention-bonus-program-and-fiscal-year-2026-broken/