Understanding How Much Does The Military Pay is crucial for anyone considering a career in service or those already serving. This guide breaks down military pay, factors influencing it, and where to find the latest information.
Most military pay increased 4.5% for 2025, compared to 2024 levels. The military pay charts apply to active members of the Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, Coast Guard and Space Force. However, junior enlisted ranks of E-1 through E-4, and E-5s with the fewest years in service, will receive a 14.5% raise, with the initial 4.5% reflected in their January paychecks and the remainder starting April 1.
Understanding Basic Military Pay
Basic pay is the foundation of military compensation. Several factors determine how much does the military pay in basic pay:
- Paygrade/Rank: Higher ranks receive higher base pay.
- Years of Service: Pay increases with time in service.
For example, in April-December 2025, an enlisted service member with a paygrade of E-1 receives $2,319.00 per month in basic pay. A more senior enlisted person with a paygrade of E-6 and over a decade of service earns $4,585.20 monthly throughout 2025.
Officers naturally receive more. A new officer’s basic pay starts at $3,998.40 in 2025, while a more senior officer with a paygrade of O-4, having served more than 10 years, receives $9,075.00 monthly.
Image alt: Stack of money on a calendar representing military pay schedule.
Allowances: Boosting Your Military Compensation
Beyond basic pay, service members often receive allowances, significantly impacting how much does the military pay overall. These allowances are frequently tax-free, increasing their value. Common allowances include:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): Helps cover housing costs and is excluded from gross income for tax purposes.
- Other allowances based on duty station, qualifications, or military specialties.
Special Pay: Additional Compensation Opportunities
In addition to basic pay and allowances, service members may qualify for special pay, further influencing how much does the military pay. This additional compensation is often tied to specific skills, locations, or duties.
Military Pay Changes: Staying Updated
Military pay typically increases at the beginning of each calendar year, in January. This adjustment aims to keep pace with private-sector wage growth. Service members see this change reflected in the first pay period of the year.
Image alt: Military Pay App Logo.
The annual pay increase is usually based on the Employment Cost Index (ECI), calculated by the Department of Labor. However, Congress can, and sometimes does, override this automatic amount.
Resources for Military Pay Information
To stay informed about how much does the military pay and any changes to compensation and benefits, consider the following resources:
- Bookmark the Military Pay section of Military.com for news, updates, pay charts, and calculators.
- Subscribe to newsletters from reliable sources like Military.com.
Understanding Your Leave and Earning Statement (LES)
The Leave and Earning Statement (LES) provides a detailed breakdown of your entitlements, deductions, allotments, leave information, tax withholding, and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions.
Access your LES through myPay and review it carefully each pay period to ensure accuracy. The LES includes:
- Identifying information and the pay period covered.
- A summary of entitlements, deductions, and allotments.
- The actual amount in your paycheck.
- DIEMS (date you signed up for military service) and RETPLAN (retirement plan).
- Leave days balance and federal tax information.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions.
Related: How to Read a Military LES
Addressing Military Pay Errors
If you identify any discrepancies in your military pay, it’s crucial to act promptly. Contact your payroll or finance office immediately.
For further assistance, here are some helpful contacts:
- Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Space Force active duty or Reserve: Call 1-888-332-7411
- Retiree, survivor, or beneficiary: Call 1-800-321-1080
- Former spouse or creditor with a question about alimony, child support, and other court-ordered garnishment: Call 1-888-332-7411
- Coast Guard active duty, reservists, and retirees:
- Active duty or in the Reserve: Contact your unit administrative yeoman
- Retirees: Contact the Coast Guard Pay & Personnel Center at 1-866-772-8724
Conclusion: Staying Informed About Military Pay
Understanding how much does the military pay is essential for financial planning and career decisions. By staying informed about basic pay, allowances, special pay, and utilizing available resources, service members can effectively manage their finances and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. Remember to regularly review your LES and promptly address any discrepancies with the appropriate channels.
