The Guide to Military Bureaucracy: Your Key to Financial and Housing Rights
The “Lone Soldier” certificate is much more than just a piece of paper; it is your entry ticket to a world of support, financial grants, housing solutions, and emotional assistance. But as we all know, military bureaucracy can be confusing. We are here to simplify the process for you.
Who is eligible for Lone Soldier status? There are two main categories of recognition:
- Lone Soldier (Parents Abroad): A soldier whose parents live permanently abroad, or a soldier who made Aliyah alone.
- Lone Soldier (Irregular Home Situation): A soldier who lives in Israel but has no contact with their parents, or whose return home poses a physical or mental risk. This also includes cases of severe domestic conflict or religious/lifestyle-based disconnection.
The Recognition Process: Step by Step
Step 1: Pre-Enlistment (Meitav) If you haven’t enlisted yet, start the process at the Recruitment Office (Lishkat Giyus). Contact the “Meitav” center and ask to speak with a Tash NCO (Social Affairs NCO) to submit a request for recognition before your enlistment date.
Step 2: Documentation You will need to provide various documents, depending on your situation:
- For those with parents abroad: A declaration from your parents, copies of their IDs, and proof of residence abroad.
- For those with no family contact: Testimonies from social workers, educators, or other professionals who can attest to the family situation.
Step 3: During Service If you have already enlisted, contact your unit’s Tash NCO. They will conduct a personal interview and, in some cases, a home visit (if you are living in Israel) to verify the conditions.
Step 4: Final Approval The request is sent to the higher authorities in the Tash department. Once approved, you will receive the “Lone Soldier” status in the military system, and your benefits will begin to take effect.
Important Tips
- Don’t wait! Bureaucracy takes time. Start the process as early as possible—even months before your draft date.
- Keep copies: Always keep copies of every document you submit to the army.
- Renewing status: Remember that lone soldier status needs to be renewed occasionally (usually every year or upon moving to a new apartment). Stay on top of the dates!
Beit Eli is here for you Stuck with the paperwork? Not sure which form to sign? Our team at Beit Eli has vast experience with military bureaucracy. Contact us, and we will help you navigate the system so you can focus on being the best soldier you can be.
