Soldiers often know in advance whether they are going to reenlist and stay in the Army for another tour. However, there are many different factors to consider when thinking about reenlisting.

Reenlistments are catered specifically to the individual, so not all Soldiers will receive the same reenlistment package. Thus, there are many different factors to look into when reenlisting. The following are some of the most important.

1. Reenlistment Zone. Which zone are you in? Alpha Zone Soldiers have 17 months to six years active federal service at the date of discharge. Bravo Zone Soldiers have six to 10 years and Charlie Zone Soldiers have 10 to 14 years of active federal service.

2. The term of service. Soldiers who are "Initial Term Soldiers" have different options than "Mid-Career" and "Career" Soldiers.

3. Monetary Bonus. How much money can you receive for this reenlistment? Is it better to sign a shorter contract for less money and wait to sign a longer contract with more money later? Is it worth waiting until you are in a combat zone? If a Soldier does wait, the bonus amount may go up or down depending on the needs of the Army. It is definite gamble to play the waiting game. Bonuses are different depending on the MOS, the rank, and the reenlistment zone.

4. (Option 1): Regular Army Reenlistment Option. This option is the simplest reenlistment choice; there is no guarantee of assignment or training incentives. The Soldier is relying on the needs of the Army for placement and can reenlist for anywhere between two to six years with this option.

5. (Option 2): Current Station Stabilization Reenlistment Option. This option guarantees one to 12 months stabilization at the Soldier's current duty station, but does not guarantee placement within in the same unit.

6. (Option 3): Army Training Reenlistment Option. This option guarantees attendance at an available service school of choice for PMOS, SQI, ASI or language training.

7. (Option 4): Overseas Assignment Reenlistment Option. This option allows a Soldier to choose one of the following assignments: Korea; Pacific area (long tour); Pacific area, (short tour); Alaska; Caribbean area;  Europe;  Hawaii, and Southwest Asia.

8. (Option 5): CONUS Station-of-Choice Reenlistment Option. This option guarantees assignment for at least 12 months at the CONUS station of choice for Soldiers reenlisting for three through six year periods.

9. Education. For many, the Army allows the Soldier to take six months' time for college attendance; Soldiers can also transfer their G.I. Bill to their spouse or children.

10. See a Reenlistment NCO or Career Counselor. Only a Soldier trained in reenlistment can truly answer all the questions and lay all the options on the table.