Active-duty service members have the option to set up allotments from their military pay for various purposes, such as repaying military loans or covering insurance premiums. However, National Guard and Reserve members are currently excluded from this option, with the sole exception being the State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI) allotment. According to the Financial Management Regulation DOD 7000.14, this exclusion is due to "DJMS-RC system limitations." Yet, the fact that SSLI allotments are possible demonstrates that technical solutions already exist.

These "system limitations" are outdated regulatory and policy constraints that have not been adequately addressed. Given the advancements in technology and automation, there is no reason why the current financial system cannot be updated to allow National Guard and Reserve members to establish allotments from their pay. While it is understood that there may be instances when these members do not receive a paycheck, such as during months without drill, the impact on their allotments would be no different than the potential catch-up deductions that active-duty members face under similar circumstances, such as during AWOL or government shutdowns.

The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States urges Congress to ensure that National Guard and Reserve members have the same opportunity as active-duty members to have allotments established from their military pay.