Discover how Air Force Basic Training pays you in more ways than one. From competitive pay scales to education benefits and housing allowances, new recruits can earn a steady income while serving their country. Learn about the 6 ways Air Force Basic Training compensates airmen, including bonuses, allowances, and veteran benefits.
The United States Air Force is one of the most prestigious and respected branches of the military, offering a wide range of benefits and opportunities for those who serve. One of the most significant advantages of joining the Air Force is the compensation package, which includes a variety of forms of payment. For those considering enlisting, it's essential to understand the different ways that Air Force Basic Training pays you.
In this article, we'll explore the six ways that Air Force Basic Training pays you, including your base pay, Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), food allowance, education benefits, and cash bonuses.
What is Air Force Basic Training?
Before we dive into the compensation package, it's essential to understand what Air Force Basic Training is. Air Force Basic Training, also known as Basic Military Training (BMT), is a 7-week training program designed to transform civilians into airmen. During BMT, recruits learn the skills and values necessary to succeed in the Air Force, including physical fitness, military protocol, and core values.
1. Base Pay
Your base pay is the foundation of your compensation package. As a new recruit, you'll start at the lowest pay grade, E-1, and receive a monthly salary of around $1,733. As you progress through the ranks and gain experience, your base pay will increase. For example, an E-3 (Airman First Class) with 2 years of service can expect to earn around $2,043 per month.
Pay Grades and Ranks
| Pay Grade | Rank | Monthly Base Pay |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 | Airman Basic | $1,733 |
| E-2 | Airman | $1,942 |
| E-3 | Airman First Class | $2,043 |
2. Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a tax-free allowance designed to help cover the cost of housing. The amount of BAH you receive depends on your location, rank, and family size. For example, an E-1 with no dependents living in San Antonio, Texas, can expect to receive around $744 per month in BAH.
BAH Rates
| Location | Rank | BAH Rate |
|---|---|---|
| San Antonio, TX | E-1 | $744 |
| Los Angeles, CA | E-2 | $1,224 |
| New York City, NY | E-3 | $1,542 |
3. Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)
The Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) is a tax-free allowance designed to help cover the cost of food. The BAS rate is the same for all ranks and locations, and is currently set at $369.39 per month.
4. Food Allowance
In addition to the BAS, you may also receive a food allowance, which varies depending on your location and the availability of dining facilities. For example, if you're stationed at a base with a dining facility, you may receive a reduced food allowance.
5. Education Benefits
The Air Force offers a range of education benefits, including the Montgomery GI Bill, the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and the Air Force Tuition Assistance program. These benefits can help you pay for college, vocational training, or other education expenses.
Education Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Montgomery GI Bill | Up to $2,050 per month for college or vocational training |
| Post-9/11 GI Bill | Up to 100% of tuition and fees for college or vocational training |
| Air Force Tuition Assistance | Up to $4,500 per year for college or vocational training |
6. Cash Bonuses
The Air Force offers a range of cash bonuses, including enlistment bonuses, reenlistment bonuses, and special duty pay. For example, you may be eligible for a $10,000 enlistment bonus if you enlist in a critical career field.
Cash Bonuses
| Bonus | Description |
|---|---|
| Enlistment Bonus | Up to $10,000 for critical career fields |
| Reenlistment Bonus | Up to $20,000 for reenlisting in a critical career field |
| Special Duty Pay | Up to $500 per month for special duties or hazardous assignments |
Air Force Basic Training Image Gallery
As you can see, Air Force Basic Training pays you in a variety of ways, from base pay and allowances to education benefits and cash bonuses. Whether you're looking for a challenging career, education opportunities, or simply a chance to serve your country, the Air Force has something to offer.