Your Rights as a Lone Soldier: Know Them!
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As a lone soldier, you’re committing to a year (or more) of service that shapes your future and helps build the community. It’s an exciting yet challenging time, and knowing your rights can make all the difference. Understanding the benefits and protections available to you is crucial to having a smoother, more comfortable experience. Here’s a breakdown of your key rights as a lone soldier.
💳 1. Tavim (Preloaded Cash Cards)
As a lone soldier, you'll have access to Tavim-preloaded cash cards provided by Mashakit Tash. These cards are designed to help you with personal expenses and can be a great resource for managing your finances while in service.
✈️ 2. Paid Flights for Family Visits
Lone soldiers are entitled to one paid flight per year to visit their immediate family abroad (this is not valid in the first year of service). If you’re a combat soldier, you’re entitled to two flights! Flights must be to the country where your parents live. Other immediate family members’ countries aren't eligible for this benefit.
🏠 3. Housing Assistance
As a lone soldier, you don’t have to worry about finding housing on your own. You're entitled to housing assistance in several forms:
Rent subsidies
Kibbutz adoption
Lone soldier apartments
Beit HaHayal (soldier housing facilities)
These options help ensure that you have a place to live while you serve.
🛣️ 4. Free Public Transportation
All soldiers, including lone soldiers, receive free public transportation. This benefit makes it easier for you to travel between your base and home, run errands, or visit family.
💰 5. Monthly Stipend
Lone soldiers receive a monthly stipend determined by the IDF Personnel Division. This stipend is designed to help cover basic living expenses, including food, toiletries, and personal items. The amount may vary based on your specific situation, but it’s an important financial support for your service period.
📅 6. Leave for Family Visits
Lone soldiers are entitled to 8 days of special leave per year when their parents visit Israel. This is a great opportunity to reconnect with family and recharge during your service.
🛒 7. One Personal Errand Day Per Month
While you're in training, you’re entitled to one day off per month for personal errands. During regular service, this benefit increases to one day every other month, giving you the opportunity to take care of important personal matters.
🏡 8. Weekend and Holiday Leave
When you go on weekend or holiday leave, you’re entitled to be home by 12:00 PM. This ensures that you can make the most of your time with family and friends during breaks.
🚨 9. Appeal Decisions Regarding Lone Soldier Status
If there is any issue with your lone soldier status, you have the right to appeal the decision through the Exceptions Committee. This committee can help if there are any discrepancies regarding your service status or rights.
📜 10. Annual Leave
Lone soldiers are entitled to 30 days of leave per year to visit an immediate family member abroad. Keep in mind, this entitlement can be used at any point during the year, except for the first year of service.
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Being a lone soldier in the IDF comes with its challenges, but you’re never alone when it comes to your rights and support. Whether it’s financial assistance, housing, or time off to visit family, the system is designed to make sure you can focus on your service while still staying connected to your loved ones. Always make sure to stay informed about your rights and reach out if you have any questions. You deserve to be supported every step of the way!
Have questions about your rights as a lone soldier? Don’t hesitate to ask us-we're here to help you navigate the process!