Intro
Discover the National Guard pay scale by rank. Learn how rank affects salary, from Private to Sergeant Major. Understand drill pay, active duty pay, and benefits for each of 10 key ranks. Get the latest information on National Guard compensation, including allowances and special pay, to make informed decisions about your military career.
Joining the National Guard can be a rewarding career choice, offering a unique blend of military service, education benefits, and civilian life. One of the most significant factors to consider when joining the National Guard is the pay. National Guard pay varies by rank, and understanding the pay scale can help you make informed decisions about your military career.
Serving in the National Guard requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to serve your country. In return, members of the National Guard receive a competitive salary, education benefits, and access to specialized training. Whether you're considering joining the National Guard or already serving, it's essential to understand the pay structure and how it varies by rank.
The National Guard pay scale is based on the federal government's pay grades, which are used to determine salaries for military personnel. The pay scale is divided into two main categories: enlisted and officer. Within these categories, there are 10 ranks that determine an individual's pay.
Here, we'll break down the 10 ranks in the National Guard, explaining the pay scale and benefits associated with each rank.
Understanding the National Guard Pay Scale
Before diving into the individual ranks, it's essential to understand the pay scale. The National Guard pay scale is based on a combination of factors, including time in service, rank, and time in grade. The pay scale is divided into two main categories: enlisted and officer.
Enlisted personnel make up the majority of the National Guard, and their pay is determined by their rank and time in service. Officer personnel, on the other hand, are typically college-educated and hold higher ranks within the National Guard.
Enlisted Ranks
The enlisted ranks in the National Guard are divided into several categories, each with its own pay scale.
Private (E-1)
- Basic pay: $1,733.10 per month
- Time in service: 0-2 years
- Time in grade: 0-2 years
As the lowest rank in the National Guard, Privates (E-1) are typically new recruits or junior enlisted personnel. They are still in training and have limited experience.
Private First Class (E-2)
- Basic pay: $1,942.50 per month
- Time in service: 2-4 years
- Time in grade: 1-3 years
Private First Class (E-2) is the second-lowest rank in the National Guard. At this rank, individuals have completed basic training and have some experience.
Specialist/Corporal (E-4)
- Basic pay: $2,344.80 per month
- Time in service: 4-8 years
- Time in grade: 2-6 years
Specialist/Corporal (E-4) is a non-commissioned officer (NCO) rank in the National Guard. At this rank, individuals have significant experience and are responsible for leading teams.
Sergeant (E-5)
- Basic pay: $2,822.30 per month
- Time in service: 8-12 years
- Time in grade: 4-8 years
Sergeant (E-5) is a higher NCO rank in the National Guard. At this rank, individuals have significant experience and are responsible for leading teams and making tactical decisions.
Officer Ranks
The officer ranks in the National Guard are divided into several categories, each with its own pay scale.
Second Lieutenant (O-1)
- Basic pay: $3,287.10 per month
- Time in service: 0-4 years
- Time in grade: 0-4 years
Second Lieutenant (O-1) is the lowest officer rank in the National Guard. At this rank, individuals are typically new officers or junior leaders.
First Lieutenant (O-2)
- Basic pay: $3,788.30 per month
- Time in service: 4-8 years
- Time in grade: 2-6 years
First Lieutenant (O-2) is a higher officer rank in the National Guard. At this rank, individuals have significant experience and are responsible for leading teams and making tactical decisions.
Captain (O-3)
- Basic pay: $4,380.60 per month
- Time in service: 8-12 years
- Time in grade: 4-8 years
Captain (O-3) is a higher officer rank in the National Guard. At this rank, individuals have significant experience and are responsible for leading teams and making strategic decisions.
Major (O-4)
- Basic pay: $5,274.80 per month
- Time in service: 12-16 years
- Time in grade: 6-10 years
Major (O-4) is a higher officer rank in the National Guard. At this rank, individuals have significant experience and are responsible for leading teams and making strategic decisions.
Lieutenant Colonel (O-5)
- Basic pay: $6,469.90 per month
- Time in service: 16-20 years
- Time in grade: 8-12 years
Lieutenant Colonel (O-5) is a higher officer rank in the National Guard. At this rank, individuals have significant experience and are responsible for leading teams and making strategic decisions.
Colonel (O-6)
- Basic pay: $8,337.40 per month
- Time in service: 20-24 years
- Time in grade: 10-14 years
Colonel (O-6) is the highest officer rank in the National Guard. At this rank, individuals have significant experience and are responsible for leading teams and making strategic decisions.
National Guard Pay Image Gallery
Now that you have a better understanding of the National Guard pay scale, you can make informed decisions about your military career. Remember, serving in the National Guard requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to serve your country. The benefits, including competitive pay and education benefits, make it a rewarding career choice.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the National Guard pay scale. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out. Share your thoughts with us, and let's start a conversation about the National Guard and its benefits.