Individual Ready Reserve members who are not members of the National Guard or Selected Reserve (SELRES), are required to attend muster duty once per year. Members ordered to muster duty are required to perform a minimum of two hours of muster duty on the day of muster, as determined by the Secretary of the Military Department, and are entitled to earn Muster Duty Allowance (MDA) as compensation for completing muster duty. Muster duty is an annual screening to collect medical and personnel information from Ready Reservist members. Members who attend muster duty will receive access to helpful resources and benefits, and be provided with opportunities to mobilize.
The MDA is 125 percent of the average per diem rate in effect on September 30 of the calendar year preceding the calendar year in which the muster duty is performed.
Muster Duty Allowance Rates (MDA)
| Effective | Amount |
|---|---|
| January 1, 2019 | $241.25 |
| January 1, 2018 | $241.25 |
| January 1, 2017 | $230.00 |
| January 1, 2016 | $211.25 |
| January 1, 2015 | $216.25 |
| January 1, 2014 | $210.90 |
| January 1, 2013 | $209.71 |
| January 1, 2012 | $207.28 |
| January 1, 2011 | $215.63 |
| January 1, 2010 | $205.00 |
| January 1, 2009 | $197.86 |
Muster Duty FAQ
What is IRR Muster Duty?
The muster is a chance for the IRR Soldier to update their contact information, personal information and certify their medical readiness-all tasks required by law that the IRR Soldier must complete to be compliant.
Is IRR Muster Duty Mandatory?
Yes. The Secretaries of the Military Departments established procedures to ensure the continuous screening of the IRR. One of those screening tools is a muster. A member of the IRR may be ordered to Muster Duty, with or without the Soldier’s consent, in accordance with Title 10, U.S.C. 12319, up to one day per year. It may be an in-person muster (Readiness and Personnel Accountability muster) or a Virtual Muster (VM).
What is a Virtual Muster?
A virtual muster is an electronic muster that you can complete in about 15 minutes without having to travel to a muster site. When you have received notice by email or regular mail to complete a Virtual Muster, you must log on with a CAC or DS Logon. Completing the muster allows you to update your contact and personal information and certify your medical readiness (all requirements of being an IRR Soldier).
When do you get Paid for Muster Duty?
Ready Reservist may be paid the MDA before, on, or after the date on which he or she performs muster duty, but not more than 30 days after that date.
What is the Definition of Muster?
Verb: Assemble (troops), especially for inspection or in preparation for battle.
Noun: A formal gathering of troops, especially for inspection, display, or exercise.
What is IRR?
The Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) is a category of the Ready Reserve of the Reserve Component of the Armed Forces of the United States composed of former active duty or reserve military personnel and is authorized under 10 U.S.C. § 1005.
What is Active Reserve?
Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Soldiers serve full-time and enjoy the same benefits as Active Duty Soldiers. With an Active Guard Reserve job, you receive full pay, medical care for you and your family, and the opportunity for retirement after 20 years of active service.
How is the MDA Rate Calculated?
The MDA rate is calculated by The General Services Administration Office of Government-wide Policy, Office of Travel, and Relocation Policy.