Congratulations, Soldier, on your decision to join the Army! Whether your career lasts years or decades, you have made a great choice to serve your country and be a part of the greatest military in the world. On this page, you will find video training and handouts to help you make informed decisions on issues regarding your personal finances, education and benefits. We hope this information will help you start your career on the right path.
To begin Future Soldier training, watch each video in sequence and review the accompanying handouts. Once you have completed those steps, open the acknowledgement form. You may fill this out online and then save or print to provide this to your recruiter.
Should You Get Emancipated?
Many a teenager fantasizes about living on their own. But in reality, the day-to-day responsibilities can be overwhelming even for seasoned adults. This doesn't mean that there aren’t good reasons for moving out and getting emancipated. But minors must carefully weigh the pros and cons, while making an honest assessment of their needs.
So before you pursue the process, you should ask whether you should get emancipated in the first place. Before deciding, consider the following:
• You'll have to find and pay for a place to live (which may need to be furnished).
• You'll need to pay for your own health care.
• You'll have to buy and cook your own food.
• You'll be legally responsible for all contracts you sign.
• You may be sued and held financially liable.
• Being emancipated doesn't entitle you to vote or buy alcohol.
Every situation is unique, but it may be a good idea to become emancipated from your parents under the following circumstances:
• You're legally married.
• You're financially independent.
• Your parents are abusive, neglectful, or otherwise harmful to you.
• You have moral objections to your parents’ living situation.
• You've been kicked out of your house.
If you’ve carefully considered your reasons for becoming emancipated and have a clear understanding of what it means to live on your own, it’s time to explore your options.
How Do You Get Emancipated Without a Legal Declaration?
How Do You Get Emancipated Through a Court Order?
States that allow for judicial emancipation will consider whether it serves the minor’s best interests. The following considerations typically figure into the court’s decision:
• Are you financially self-sufficient (excluding government aid)?
• Have you made stable living arrangements?
• Are you mature enough to make adult decisions?
• Are you enrolled in school or have a high school diploma?
Minor emancipation laws vary by state, but most state courts charge a filing fee of between $150 and $200. You must file the petition with the court and notify your parents or legal guardians (required by most states). Then the court will schedule a hearing.
At the hearing, the judge will ask questions and hear evidence before deciding whether you should be emancipated. If the court rules in your favor, you will be issued a declaration of emancipation (copies of which may be given to doctors, schools, landlords, etc.).
Learn More About Getting Emancipated
Emancipation from your family can be a touchy subject. Many young people who wonder how to get emancipated don’t actually go through the process. But for those with legitimate reasons and the means to make it on their own, it’s an important option. Consider speaking with a family law attorney near you to help answer your questions and plan for the future.
You Don’t Have To Solve This on Your Own – Get a Lawyer’s Help
Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.
Or contact an attorney near you:
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What to Write to a Soldier
Example of a note:
I've been meaning to write you for a few days now, but we've been busy. Here's what has been going on since I wrote you last. Michael had one of his projects selected to be shown in a display at the library because it was part of their "Art of Reading" theme. I'm proud of his humility. He's really good with his art, but he also encourages other kids who aren't yet at his level. Reagan got second place in the 100 backstroke. She said she thinks she did so well because she's gotten better at her turns. I don't know how she can tell when she needs to turn over and do her flip turn. We've all been missing you. We are praying for you at every meal and night before bed. I say a few extra prayers in between any time I start to worry about you. I love you very much, and I can't wait to see you. You inspire me every day even though we are apart.
Say Farewell to a Service Member
• We will miss you dearly, but we are willing to loan you for a short time. You will be missed and loved the entire time you are gone.
• There will not be a day that goes by that I won't think about you while your are gone. Be smart. I'll be praying for you.
• No matter where you are in the world, I'll still love you. Don't ever think you are alone.
• Make sure you let me know your address so I can send you letters and care packages.
• I am confident that you will be successful no matter where you go and what you do.
• You may be far away in physical space, but you are always close to us in spirit and in our hearts.
• See you later. That's a promise!
Be Encouraging to Military Personnel
During active duty, an encouraging message from home can help a soldier get through challenging times.
• I'm proud of you. You are my inspiration, and I think about you often as I go through my day.
• I am praying for you, but I'd like to be specific in my prayer. Please tell me what I can pray about for you. Right now I am praying for you to have strength, patience, and peace.
• I enjoy reading every word you write back to me. There's probably so much more going on than I know. Please keep your letters coming.
• You are the kind of hero I look up to. Thanks for your willingness to serve. Our country and the rest of the world need people like you.
• If it weren't for service people like you, we wouldn't have the freedoms we have in our country. What you do for the people of our country is a great sacrifice.
• I am thinking of you often. There are many people asking me about how you are doing, and I wanted to let you know how much they care. We appreciate your service and hope to see you soon!
Missing You Messages
• I spend a lot of time thinking about you. Sometimes I wonder what you are doing and what is going on. Most of the time I just want you here with me.
• I can't wait to put my arms around you and give you a great big hug. I miss your smile and your jokes. Somehow I feel a little closer to you when I write you.
• My heart feels an every-growing pull toward yours as time goes by.
• We can't wait to spend some time with you stateside.
• Sometimes I feel closer to you when I write to you. This is why I'm writing you this letter.
• I hope this card can serve as a reminder that I love you. It will have to do for now, but I can't wait for a big hug!
Say Welcome Home
When the troops come home, use your welcoming words to help them transition back to the community.
• We feel blessed to have you with us. Your presence is a gift and a reason to celebrate!
• I'm so happy to have you back home. You have served your country well. It's time to enjoy your country.
• We're so glad to have our hero back with us!
• It's time to kick back and relax at home. You've earned it.
• Today we celebrate because someone we love as returned home to us. Nothing else matters as much to us.
• This is a wonderful day because it's the day we get to welcome you home. Please enjoy your time adjusting back to civilian life. You deserve all the rest and relaxation you want.