Echiboo

I am in the Army, enlisted as an E-2. I am leaving on August 10th of 2010 to Fort Knox, Kentucky. I haven't the time to really look into things like this but I was wondering if anyone can provide me with answers as to how much I will get AFTER TAXES.

First Question: I understand we get paid on the first and 15th of each month. Will I be paid on the 15th? Or do I have to just wait it out until the 1st of September.

Second Question: I am planning on coming home from Christmas Exodus which will possibly be on the 18th of December. Will they give me my check for the last half of the month on the 15th? Or does that not count since I am on leave.

Third Question: Are there any other bills to be paid in the military? I am not married. No dependents and no bills or fines so far.

Fourth Question: What is my total pay from Aug. 10th to December 18th. I know tax rates are different. I will be in Kentucky From Aug 10th to around Nov 3rd. Then from Nov. 3rd to Dec. 18th I will be in Texas. So all you math wizards and info-getters, this is the question for you.

Thank you so much. Best answer will go to the person who provides me with the most accurate answers. Long or short answers, it does not matter. All questions don't have to be answered, just most. Remember to consider taxes and other possible bills (if any please make me aware of them).

I have enlisted (Active Army) in the Army as a 68K (Medical Lab Specialist) and my pay grade is E-2. I am leaving on August 10, 2010 and starting BCT on August 16, 2010 (Fort Knox). Afterwards, my AIT as a 68K starts on November 3, 2010 (Fort Sam Houston). My MGIB is roughly $80,000. I signed up for 5 years and my ASVAB score is 89. I have no dependents and am 18 years old just graduated high school.

My first question is about my bonus which I think is $500. I was wondering when I get to MEPS or wherever I am going to I can ask for a larger bonus nearing the $6000 range. I've been confused about my bonus wondering why it was so low and decided to ask more questions about bonuses and leave before I leave.

My second question is about Christmas Exodus and Leave. My BCT is 9 weeks and AIT at 52 weeks and I wonder wondering if I get to go home for Christmas Exodus from Fort SAMH. If so is there a certain date that I may leave and report back? I heard that if Christmas Exodus is taken then it will be subtracted from my leave. Does that apply for the rest of my life? or are federal holidays such as that a given and does not become subtracted from the 30 days per year leave. If it does and I become "in the hole" then will the length of my AIT compensate for my Christmas Exodus so I can go home after graduation?

My third question is about finances. How much is taxes when it comes to military pay. I understand I have to pay 100$ per month for MGIB and about 6-30 for insurance (if I get it). My current source of money deposit is Wells Fargo, but in the future I would like to switch to USAA. Is that possible? Will I need to wait for a certain amount of time before I can apply for USAA to become my source of money deposits and withdrawal?.

I will reward handsomely for someone who answers all if not most of these questions.

P.S. Please give me more information about how I can basically rape the Army of all it's bonuses and benefits.

I was wondering if anyone with military experiences can answer my quest?

Please give me some variety of careers I can choose from that'll match where I'm at right now.

My workout routine.

Sleep: 9:20PM

WakeUp: 5:00AM

Run 1 mile: 5:15

I just started running and want to practice a bit before i get to those really high marathons. What should I eat before my runs. I also run afterschool to my gym (4-5miles) workout then run home (5-6miles)

I workout 3-4 days per week and I use splits workouts. Is there any recommended foods for me?

I have never taken protein shakes or anything like that. What foods I get is what I workout with.

Any suggestions for this newcomer?

I just want to tone up and lose my fat.