Intro
Discover the US National Guard pay scale with our 6-step guide. Learn how rank, time in service, and specialty impact your earnings. Understand base pay, allowances, and bonuses that contribute to your total compensation. Get insights into the pay charts and tables to make informed decisions about your military career.
The United States National Guard is a reserve component of the US Armed Forces that plays a critical role in the country's defense and security. With over 450,000 soldiers and airmen, the National Guard is a vital part of the US military. If you are considering joining the National Guard, understanding the pay scale is essential to know what to expect. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the US National Guard pay scale.
The National Guard pay scale is similar to the active duty military pay scale, but with some key differences. The pay scale is based on the member's rank, time in service, and education level. The pay scale is also influenced by the type of duty, with active duty members receiving higher pay than drill status members.
Step 1: Understand the National Guard Pay Grades
The National Guard pay grades are the same as the active duty military pay grades. The pay grades range from E-1 (Private) to E-9 (Sergeant Major) for enlisted members and O-1 (Second Lieutenant) to O-10 (General) for officers.
The pay grades are further divided into three categories: junior enlisted, non-commissioned officers (NCOs), and senior NCOs. Junior enlisted members are typically new recruits with little to no experience, while NCOs have more experience and are responsible for leading teams. Senior NCOs are the most experienced and hold leadership positions.
Junior Enlisted (E-1 to E-3)
- Private (E-1): $1,733.10 per month
- Private First Class (E-2): $1,942.50 per month
- Specialist/Corporal (E-3): $2,043.70 per month
Non-Commissioned Officers (E-4 to E-6)
- Sergeant (E-4): $2,465.50 per month
- Staff Sergeant (E-5): $2,743.90 per month
- Sergeant First Class (E-6): $3,127.10 per month
Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (E-7 to E-9)
- Master Sergeant (E-7): $3,445.80 per month
- Sergeant Major (E-8): $4,036.20 per month
- Command Sergeant Major (E-9): $4,511.10 per month
Step 2: Determine Your Drill Status
The National Guard pay scale is influenced by the type of duty. Drill status members, also known as part-time soldiers, receive lower pay than active duty members.
- Drill status members: receive pay for one weekend per month (drill weekend) and two weeks of annual training (AT)
- Active duty members: receive full-time pay and benefits
Drill Pay Rates
- Drill pay rates are based on the member's rank and time in service
- Drill pay rates are typically lower than active duty pay rates
Step 3: Consider Your Education Level
The National Guard pay scale is also influenced by the member's education level. Members with higher education levels, such as a bachelor's degree or higher, receive higher pay.
- Members with a high school diploma or equivalent: receive basic pay
- Members with some college or an associate's degree: receive increased pay
- Members with a bachelor's degree or higher: receive higher pay
Education Level Pay Rates
- Members with a high school diploma or equivalent: receive basic pay rates
- Members with some college or an associate's degree: receive an additional $100-$200 per month
- Members with a bachelor's degree or higher: receive an additional $200-$500 per month
Step 4: Calculate Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a tax-free allowance that is provided to members to help pay for housing expenses.
- BAH rates vary by location and depend on the member's rank and family size
- Members can use the BAH calculator to determine their monthly BAH rate
BAH Rates
- Members with dependents: receive higher BAH rates
- Members without dependents: receive lower BAH rates
Step 5: Determine Your Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)
The Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) is a tax-free allowance that is provided to members to help pay for food expenses.
- BAS rates vary by rank and depend on the member's time in service
- Members can use the BAS calculator to determine their monthly BAS rate
BAS Rates
- Junior enlisted members: receive lower BAS rates
- Senior enlisted members: receive higher BAS rates
Step 6: Review Your Pay Stub
Once you have determined your pay grade, drill status, education level, BAH, and BAS, you can review your pay stub to ensure accuracy.
- Review your pay stub to ensure that your pay grade, drill status, education level, BAH, and BAS are accurate
- Contact your unit's personnel office if you have any discrepancies or questions
By following these six steps, you can gain a better understanding of the US National Guard pay scale and what to expect as a member.
National Guard Pay Scale Image Gallery
We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you understand the US National Guard pay scale. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to ask.