DA Form 5435-1: MGIB-SR Kicker Statement of Understanding – The DA Form 5435-1 serves as the official Statement of Understanding for the Selected Reserve Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB-SR) Kicker Program. This form ensures U.S. Army Soldiers in the Selected Reserve fully understand the obligations, eligibility rules, and benefits tied to this valuable education incentive under 10 USC 16131.
Service members complete this form when pursuing or accepting the MGIB-SR Kicker, an additional monthly payment layered on top of the base MGIB-SR (Chapter 1606) benefit. It records their acknowledgment of service commitments and program terms.
What Is the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) Kicker Program?
The MGIB-SR Kicker (authorized under 10 U.S.C. Chapter 1606) provides extra education funding to attract and retain qualified Soldiers in critical Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), units, or commissioning programs in the Army National Guard (ARNG) or U.S. Army Reserve (USAR).
- Base MGIB-SR Benefit: Up to 36 months of monthly educational assistance for approved training or degree programs.
- Kicker Add-On: An additional $100–$350 per month (depending on contract type), paid directly to the Soldier while also receiving the base MGIB-SR payment.
Soldiers can often use the Kicker alongside other benefits like the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) or MGIB Active Duty (Chapter 30), provided they maintain eligibility for the base MGIB-SR.
Who Is Eligible for the MGIB-SR Kicker?
Eligibility generally requires meeting base MGIB-SR criteria plus specific Kicker conditions:
Base MGIB-SR Requirements (per VA):
- A 6-year service obligation in the Selected Reserve (starting after June 30, 1985).
- Completion of Initial Active Duty for Training (IADT).
- High school diploma or GED (before finishing IADT).
- Good standing in an active Selected Reserve unit.
Kicker-Specific Requirements (varies by category):
- Enlisted Accessions (often $200): High ASVAB scores, critical MOS/unit.
- Reenlistment/Extension (up to $350): Specific grades and service timelines.
- Officer Commissioning (up to $350): ROTC/SMP, OCS, or Warrant Officer programs; often requires NGB Form 5435 or 5435-1 supplements and concurrent 6-year obligation.
Ineligible if:
- Using certain dedicated ROTC scholarships.
- In AGR/Military Technician status.
- Flagged or otherwise restricted.
Soldiers must sign the appropriate kicker addendum (e.g., NGB Form 5435 or DA Form 5435-1 for certain Army cases) and maintain eligibility.
Key Obligations and Terms in DA Form 5435-1
The form outlines:
- Service commitments (typically 6 years concurrent from kicker contract date).
- Conditions for benefit suspension, termination, or recoupment (e.g., failing to complete training, leaving the Selected Reserve without qualifying exceptions).
- Acknowledgment that the Kicker supplements the base MGIB-SR and is payable only while eligible for the basic benefit.
Failing to meet obligations can lead to repayment of benefits received.
How to Apply and Use the Benefits?
- Confirm Eligibility — Contact your unit education officer, State Education Services Office, or HRC.
- Complete Required Forms — Including DA Form 5435-1 (or NGB equivalents) and kicker addendum.
- Obtain Notice of Basic Eligibility (NOBE – DD Form 2384-1) from your unit.
- Apply to VA — Submit VA Form 22-1990. Verify enrollment monthly.
- Use Benefits — For college, vocational training, apprenticeships, etc. Payments go directly to you (not the school).
Download DA Form 5435-1 Here:
Official PDF – Army Publishing Directorate
Current Payment Rates and Important Notes
Kicker amounts ($100–$350/month) depend on the specific contract and are in addition to the variable base MGIB-SR rate (which depends on training type and enrollment status). Check the latest VA rates for MGIB-SR.
Benefits are subject to annual adjustments and policy updates. Always verify with official sources, as rates and rules can change.
Pro Tips for Soldiers:
- Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool on VA.gov to check approved programs.
- Coordinate with your school’s VA Certifying Official.
- Keep records of all forms, including the signed DA Form 5435-1.
Why This Benefit Matters?
The MGIB-SR Kicker Program helps Service members offset education costs while serving in the Selected Reserve. It supports career advancement, degree completion, and retention in high-need areas—benefiting both the individual Soldier and Army readiness.
For personalized guidance, reach out to your unit commander, education services officer, or the VA at 888-442-4551. Official resources include VA.gov, Army HRC, and National Guard education offices.