Scenario #1: A young service member walks into their newly assigned barracks room and notices how nasty it is. And on top of that, they have to share the small space with two or three other people that may or may not be very clean. The struggle is real.
Scenario #2: A service member may just have received orders to go on a 13-month deployment wants to make some cash while they’re gone.
Both of these very real circumstances of military life can be strong motivators for troops to tie the knot — and not for love.
Make money, money, money! (images via Giphy)
Often called a “contract marriage,” these pairings are purely for monetary gain or medical benefits. No one is suggesting you do this versus saving your money or getting a second job if your command allows, but if you do it, keep these very important things in mind.
Related: 7 ways to surprise your spouses when they return from deployment
1. He/she can turn you in
Your contract husband or wife can blow the whistle on your verbal agreement without repercussions. So you’d better keep them happy.
Oh, sh*t! Busted. (images via Giphy)
2. Adultery is illegal
In the eyes of the military, you’re legally married (imagine that). So if you get caught engaging adult activites with anyone other than your spouse, you’re on the hook sailor.
Preach! (images via Giphy)
3. If she gets pregnant by you or someone else…
You better lawyer up, get divorced or decide to take care of the little rascal to keep the added benefits. That is all.
You don’t want your name on that birth certificate. (images via Giphy)
4. Separation pay
In some cases, if you play your cards right, you might be eligible for separation pay.
Separation pay is when your spouse “lives” in another area for one legitimate reason or another. Think about it. (images via Giphy)
Also Read: 7 ways to prove your spouse is really a spy
5. Repayment
If you do get a divorce, the military typically won’t stop the extra pay right away. So don’t go spending all that extra cash too fast. The government will take back every cent from your paycheck until they recoup what’s theirs.
The answer is, yes. (images via Giphy)You’re welcome America!