Which factor influences eligibility for duty deferments in military service?

The factor that influences eligibility for duty deferments in military service is family status. Family status is particularly significant because the military recognizes that service members may have familial obligations that could impact their ability to deploy or be assigned to certain duties. For instance, service members who are primary caregivers for dependents or who are dealing with unique family circumstances may be eligible for deferment or special consideration concerning their assignments.

In contrast, while the branch of service, pay grade, and time in service can play roles in many aspects of a service member's career, they do not directly correlate with the criteria for duty deferments related to personal responsibilities. Family status is fundamentally concerned with the personal situation that could affect a service member's capacity to serve in certain roles or locations, thereby making it the pivotal factor in determining eligibility for duty deferments.