Supporting IDF Lone Soldiers
Every Step of the Way
Guidance and resources across all stages of service and beyond.
What We Do
- Advocacy & Rights
- Emergency Support
- Community & Connection
- Financial Assistance
We're With You at Every Stage
Active Service
Personalized guidance, emergency assistance, and community.
Post-Army
Rights, employment, finances, and social integration.
Parents & Families
Practical information and answers for families of Lone Soldiers
Stronger Together
What You're Entitled To
Financial Support
Housing Options
Family Visits
Flights Voucher
Aliyah Grants
Food & Holiday Gifts
Discounts
Army Leaves
FAQs
Who qualifies as a Lone Soldier?
A Lone Soldier (Chayal Boded) is an IDF soldier whose immediate family does not live in Israel. This includes new immigrants (Olim), Mahal volunteers serving from abroad, and Israeli citizens whose families live outside of Israel. In some cases, soldiers with family in Israel may also qualify — for example, if they are estranged from their parents or face difficult family circumstances.
Lone Soldier status is determined at the draft office. For most soldiers, it is confirmed automatically — for cases of estrangement, an official social worker’s report is required.
How can I lose my Lone Soldier status?
Lone Soldier status can change if your circumstances change — for example, if a parent moves to Israel, if you get married, or if your financial situation changes significantly. It is important to update your Mashakit Tash if your situation changes to avoid losing benefits you are entitled to.
What does the NBN-FIDF Lone Soldiers Program provide?
The NBN-FIDF Lone Soldiers Program provides personalized support at every stage — before you enlist, during your service, and after release. This includes a direct advisor, emergency assistance, help navigating IDF bureaucracy and your rights, community events, and guidance for life after the army. Registration is free.
Malshabim (pre-draft soldiers) may also be entitled to a Ma’anak allowance. To check your eligibility, [contact] your program advisor directly.
We also provide support for parents of Lone Soldiers — including a direct hotline, workshops, and a parents coordinator available to answer questions.
What is the IDF draft process for Lone Soldiers?
The draft process for Lone Soldiers begins with Tzav Rishon — your first summons to the draft office. From there you go through a series of medical, psychological, and personal assessments. Your Lone Soldier status is confirmed at this stage. We run events and provide guides to help you prepare for every step of the process.
What is Mahal and how is it different from regular service?
Mahal is a program that allows Jewish volunteers from abroad to serve in the IDF without making Aliyah. Some Mahal soldiers are also recognized as Lone Soldiers and are entitled to the same benefits.
Can I request a reassignment?
Yes — Lone Soldiers have the right to request a reassignment under certain conditions. The process involves submitting a formal request through IDF channels. Our advisors can guide you through the steps and help you navigate the process.
Get the Help You Need
We're here for you — talk to someone who gets it.
Hotline
Emergencies 24/7 within Israel.
General questions: Sun–Thu 9AM–5PM • UTC +3
WhatsApp Hotline
Your direct line for questions.
Sun-Thu 9am–5pm • UTC +3 • international
Talk to an Advisor
Reach out to our team.
Parent of a Lone Soldier?
Reach out to the parents coordinator.