FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

We are always eager to speak with prospective residents, answer your questions, provide all the information you need to make an informed decision, and take you on a personal tour of the Army Residence Community. In 22 years of serving residents, we have amassed a comprehensive list of questions posed by visitors, which we present here for your information. We also welcome your personal questions.

What is the Army Residence Community?
It is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) for retired career military officers, their spouses, widows and widowers. Residents live in lovely homes and apartments and enjoy an abundance of services and amenities, along with a host of stimulating activities that promise an active lifestyle. ARC residents also enjoy the security of knowing that the services and facilities of the Community's extensive Health Care Center will be available to them if needed.
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Who is eligible to live at the Army Residence Community?
Retired career military officers and their spouses. The term "officer" includes Regular, Reserve and National Guard commissioned and warrant officers. The term "career" means either a minimum of 20 years military service (active or reserve component) of which at least 10 years must have been as a commissioned or warrant officer, or retirement for a physical disability suffered while on active duty as a commissioned or warrant officer. Each "career" officer must be listed on the official Military Retired Roles.
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Is there a minimum age requirement for a qualifying individual?
The minimum age for single residents is 60. For couples, only one spouse need be 60. The Board of Directors may consider exceptions on an individual basis.
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I am a widow of a retired officer. Is the ARC only for couples?
The ARC is home to single officers and the widows and widowers of officers, as well as couples. We offer many opportunities for cultural outings, travel and an active social life, including a club for our "Solos." At the ARC, single persons need not dine alone or travel alone if they desire good company.
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What type of security is there at the ARC?
Security is provided 24 hours a day. The ARC is a gated community with controlled access. Security personnel are on duty at all times and additional security measures such as closed circuit TV and a staffed front desk augment the security.
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Is the ARC conveniently located?
The ARC is located in northeast San Antonio, between Fort Sam Houston and Randolph Air Force Base. Shopping malls, hospitals, churches, golf courses (both military and civilian), restaurants, movie theaters and many other services are within easy reach. Downtown San Antonio, which offers a full range of fine restaurants, cultural activities, professional sports and modern shopping facilities, is about 12 miles from the Community.
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Is there a hospital located near the ARC?
Brooke Army Medical Center is just eight miles from the ARC; Wilford Hall Medical Center, 28 miles; and Audie Murphy Veterans Hospital is 15 miles away; and Northeast Methodist and Northeast Baptist civilian hospitals are both within eight miles. Comprehensive medical and surgical care is also available at numerous other military and civilian medical centers in the San Antonio area.
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Is transportation available at the ARC?
Scheduled transportation in ARC vans is available at no cost to the residents who wish to use this service. Weekly trips include nearby civilian shops and other facilities, Brooke Army Medical Center, Randolph Air Force Base, and the Fort Sam Houston Post exchanges and commissaries. Appointments may also be arranged for other transportation.
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Are there planned events and activities?
Social, cultural, wellness, spiritual and recreational activities offer opportunities for fun, enrichment, exercise and fellowship. Residents may participate in these activities and are also encouraged to organize other types of activities that interest them.
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Do residents have an assurance of a Health Care Center bed?
Residents are assured a place in the Health Care Center if ordered by a physician. The Health Care Center is physically connected to the Main Building, thus allowing easy access by friends and family.
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Is any portion of the monthly fee tax-deductible?
Under current Internal Revenue Service regulations, residents are eligible for a medical deduction. The amount of the medical deduction is based upon the percentage of the Entrance Fees and Maintenance Fees that residents pay to support the Health Care Center.
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Does the ARC have a Board of Directors?
Yes, the Board of Directors is comprised of active and retired military officers, the wives, widows and widowers of officers, and other prominent citizens. Board members serve without compensation. Residents may not serve on the Board, and no Board member may be employed by, or be under contract to, the ARC.
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Are Air Force and other retirees welcome in an Army retirement community?
Absolutely! Our residents represent diversity in branches of the military and live in harmony, sharing the experience of having served their country. Rank presents no social obstacles, either; in this friendly environment, residents are on a first name basis.
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How do I get a Priority Number?
When you request an ARC information package, you'll find it contains an Advanced Priority Application. Simply fill out the application and return it to the ARC, along with a copy of the sponsor's military retirement form DD214, and a deposit of $1,000 for a single individual or $1,500 for a married couple. You will then be assigned a Priority Number. Although the deposit does not draw interest, it is placed in escrow and becomes a part of the down payment required for a living unit. The deposit is fully refundable when requested in writing.
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I like the Army Residence Community, but I'm not ready yet.
We understand that leaving your home may be one of the most difficult decisions you will ever make. However, there are a number of important reasons why prospective residents should prepare for the future now. First, it is important to move into the ARC while you're still active and medically eligible for residency; we urge prospective residents not to wait for a health crisis, which could cause medical ineligibility. Second, early decision-making gives you a better chance of securing the residence of your choice. Hesitation often prevents retirees from being able to move to the ARC because they become medically ineligible or they cannot move into the residence of their choice. We suggest you not let this happen to you. Make your decision and apply for your Priority Number now and you'll be able to take advantage of all the extraordinary services, accommodations, leisure amenities and social life the Army Residence Community has to offer.
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I may be interested in Army Residence. What should I do now?
If you are considering becoming a resident of the ARC, we invite you to learn more about us. You may contact us for information or arrange a personal tour of the ARC ... today! You're under no obligation, and you'll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with planning for your retirement future.
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