Individual Ready Reserve (IRR)

IRR related Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Courage to Resist published “Resisting Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) recall” in February 2009. Since then, inquiries from current and former military personnel affected by the IRR program have been a substantial part of our daily work.

This FAQ assumes that you have already read our original resisting IRR overview.

Important Update: Some “Post-9/11 GI Bill” benefits affected by refusal

• How do I know that the information you provide is true and accurate?
• What happens if I just don’t show up for involuntary activation?
• Do I need to go “underground” and hide if I don’t report?
• Is it true that I might be arrested and jailed for not reporting?
• Is there any danger of being court martialed for failing to report?
• Where does it state that the UCMJ does not apply to the IRR?
• What about my military benefits?
• I’m leaving active duty soon. Can I avoid being placed into the IRR?
• Should I reenlist or transfer to a Reserve unit in order to avoid IRR activation?
• How many people are currently being involuntarily recalled by the IRR?
• Should I file for a formal exemption from involuntary activation?
• What more can you tell me about filing for an exemption?
• What about intentionally failing the drug test to get out of activation?
• Does this information apply to the “Individual Warrior" catagory / program also?
• Does the information about the IRR apply to Reservists also?
• Does the information about the IRR apply to “Stop Loss” also?
• What’s the actual fall out of a bad IRR discharge?
• By making this IRR information available, will not the military close this "loop hole"?
• If I refuse activation, and they come after me, will you help me?
• Should I hire an attorney to get me out of an involuntary activation?
• What about reporting for semi-regular IRR musters?
• I’m an officer. Does this information apply to me also?
• What’s the difference between resisting activation, and just not showing up?
• After resisting IRR recall, can I still work on or visit my local military base?
• Should I donate to Courage to Resist for helping me out with this information?

Regardless of if you find your question listed or not, please feel free to call us at 510-488-3559 to discussion your situation.