Human Interest

Benefiting Yourself And Your Country

Posted: 11/12/2010

In life, there are things you have to do and things you should do.

(NAPSI) - There may be a happy upside for young men who step up and comply with the law. Registering with the Selective Service System isn’t just about doing your civic duty; it’s also essential to preserving eligibility for many federal, state and municipal benefits programs.

Opportunities for Young Men

Male students who need help paying for college will find that registering with the Selective Service opens up all doors to federal financial aid. This includes everything from Pell Grants to College Work Study to Guaranteed Student/PLUS Loans. Plus, those who sign up with the Selective Service System are eligible for federal job training via the Workforce Investment Act, as well as numerous federal jobs. Registering is also the only path to citizenship for immigrant men arriving in the U.S. before their 26th birthday.

Required by Law

According to U.S. law, virtually all male citizens and immigrants need to register with the Selective Service System. Historically, young men have had to do this during the 60-day window that begins 30 days before their 18th birthday and continues for 30 days afterward. This still holds true, but with Early Submission, it is now possible to submit your registration information as long as you are at least 17 years and 3 months of age.

Registration applies to all young men—even those living overseas. Those who are immigrants must likewise register, regardless of immigration status.

Where to Register and

How to Do It

Online registration: Log on to www.sss.gov and click on the registration icon. It takes only a minute to complete the online form. When you submit your information, you will receive a registration number instantly.

The U.S. Postal Service: Visit any U.S. Postal Service branch to obtain a Selective Service “mail-back” registration form. Men living overseas may register at any U.S. embassy or consular office.

By mail: Eligible men may also register by filling out a reminder mail-back card. Selective Service will send this card to any young man around the time he turns 18. Mail-back cards are also available at some post offices.

The federal student aid form: Another easy way to register for Selective Service is by checking a box on the application form for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA form). Checking “yes” on box 29 of this form will alert the Department of Education to provide Selective Service with the information to register you.

School: Most high schools appoint a staff member or teacher to serve as Selective Service Registrar. These individuals help to register young men and answer questions.

For more information or to register, visit www.sss.gov.

About The Messenger | Copyright Notice
American River Messenger | Paul V. Scholl, Publisher
7405 Greenback Lane, #129 | Citrus Heights, CA 95610-5603 | Telephone: 916-773-1111 | Fax Line 916-773-2999
Email: publisher@AmericanRiverMessenger.com | Site Designed and Hosted by TheSiteBarn.com
ISSN#: 1948-1969