Pay

Reservists receive pay that is based on their training qualifications, rank, and the time spent on duty with the Battalion.

The starting pay for a private is now $77.90 per day. For duty under six hours the rate is a half day's pay. For a 24-hour period operating in the field a $16.41 operational allowance is granted.

While on training courses, accommodations, board (meals) and out-of-town expenses are provided.

Reservists work on a part-time basis from September to June and can receive full-time employment of up to four months from May to August. On a part-time basis, reservists can average about $300 a month. During the summer and at other times when full-time employment opportunities are made available, reservists can average about $1900 a month.

Benefits

The reserves now offer an excellent benefits package

• Tuition reimbursement. $2000 per year or 50% of your tuition (whichever is lower) up to a maximum of four years or $8000. You must be in a program of post-secondary education leading to your first undergraduate degree or in a field of studies applicable to your military occupational trade.
• Medical and dental coverage. As long as you are not covered by another plan such as your employer's or parents' you can receive limited coverage through the military.
• Pension benefits. Currently the reserves offer a long service gratuity after 10 years of service. By 2005 reservists will receive their own pension plan.

In addition to these material benefits the reserves have always offered many intangible benefits

• Valuable job experience. As reservists progress from one level of training to the next, they gain new knowledge and skills that are useful in everyday life. There are also numerous opportunities that lead to promotion and greater responsibilities.
• Travel. Trained reservists have the opportunity of serving with their Regular Force counterparts during exercises, United Nations peacekeeping missions and NATO operations. Battalion soldiers are in demand and serve throughout Canada, Europe and the Middle East ... wherever Canadian soldiers are serving.
• Social and recreational activities.
• Leadership training.

The Canadian Armed Forces Reserve is a large, nation wide, organization that allows you to transfer without a break in service, or a loss of seniority, to a unit in the same area as your residence.