Legal Definitions - imprest money

Imprest money refers to an initial payment or advance provided to an individual upon their entry into military service, whether through voluntary enlistment or, historically, through impressment (forced conscription). This payment is typically intended to cover immediate needs or as an initial portion of a larger compensation package before regular pay cycles commence.

• Example 1: A young person enlists in the Army and, upon completing their initial processing at the recruitment center, receives a small cash advance. This advance allows them to purchase essential items like travel necessities or personal hygiene products before they report to basic training and begin receiving their regular military salary.

  Explanation: This initial sum, given at the very start of their service commitment to cover immediate needs, is an example of imprest money.

• Example 2: A highly skilled engineer decides to join the Navy. As part of their enlistment agreement for a specialized role, they are offered a significant signing bonus. A portion of this bonus is disbursed to them immediately after they officially sign their contract and commit to service, well before their first regular paycheck.

  Explanation: Even though it's part of a larger bonus, the initial payment received right at the point of commitment, directly tied to their entry into military service, serves as imprest money.

• Example 3: A reservist in the Air Force Reserve is called to active federal duty for a deployment. Upon receiving their mobilization orders and reporting to their unit for processing, they are issued an advance payment to help with the transition.

  Explanation: This payment helps the reservist cover immediate expenses related to their sudden activation, such as preparing their family for their absence or purchasing last-minute personal gear, before their full active duty pay starts flowing. This initial financial support at the commencement of their active service is an instance of imprest money.