The Delayed Entry Program
Generally when you sign an enlistment agreement you are automatically become a part of the Delayed Entry Program (DEP), meaning your report date for basic training is anywhere from one day to a year after signing the enlistment contract.
Once you sign that means you're in the military, right? It means you can't get out.
- WRONG.
Changed your mind about enlisting?
- You don't have to go, it's easy to get out of the DEP
But your recruiter is threatening you with jail or forcibly dragging you to basic?
- It's a lie, there are no consequences or marks on your record for not reporting, for both citizens and non-citizens. Whoever tells you otherwise is lying, and if it's a recruiter they're just trying to fulfill their quota for recruits.
Once you've gone to basic training it is harder, but still possible, to get out. If you've got questions about DEP or enlistment, check out the GI Rights Hotline. Know your rights, call the Hotline at 1-800-394-9544.
The GI Rights Hotline is confidential and, while not affiliated with the military in any way, specializes in counseling servicemembers on their rights.
