How much do air force reserves make?

How Much Do Air Force Reservists Make?

The United States Air Force Reserve is a vital component of the country’s national security, providing trained and ready personnel to support global missions. As a part-time force, Air Force Reservists can maintain a civilian career while also serving their country. One common question many individuals ask is: how much do Air Force Reservists make?

Pay Rates

Air Force Reservists are paid for their part-time service, which varies depending on their military grade, years of service, and specialty. The basic pay rates for Air Force Reservists are:

• Airman First Class (E-3): $2,130 – $2,620 per month
• Airman First Class (E-4): $2,460 – $2,960 per month
• Staff Sergeant (E-5): $2,780 – $3,320 per month
• Technical Sergeant (E-6): $3,330 – $3,890 per month
• Master Sergeant (E-7): $4,010 – $4,510 per month
• Senior Master Sergeant (E-8): $4,830 – $5,260 per month
• Chief Master Sergeant (E-9): $5,590 – $6,040 per month

Special Pays and Bonuses

In addition to basic pay, Air Force Reservists can receive special pays and bonuses for their service. Some of these incentives include:

• Enlisted Bonuses: $50,000 to $100,000 or more in signing bonuses for critical career fields
• Enlistment Bonuses: up to $20,000 for re-enlistment
• Flying Bonuses: up to $10,000 for qualified pilots
• Retention Bonuses: up to $20,000 per year for retaining enlisted members
• Combat Zones Tax Exclusion (Combat Zone Tax Exclusion): up to 30% of their annual active duty pay tax-free for deployments
• IMCOM Bonus: up to $20,000 for Reserve members who enlist or re-enlist and commit to serve 12-15 years

Training and Drills

Air Force Reservists participate in regular training drills, which are usually scheduled for one weekend per month (12 hours) and 15 days of active duty per year. These training periods allow Reservists to maintain their skills, learn new ones, and prepare for deployments. During these drills, Air Force Reservists can earn additional pay for travel, meals, and temporary duty expenses:

• Per Diem: up to $52 per day for meals and expenses
• Temporary Duty (TDY): up to $650 per day for travel expenses

Career Advancement Opportunities

As Air Force Reservists gain experience and complete training, they can advance in rank, gaining increased pay and benefits. The Air Force Reserve offers career advancement opportunities:

• Aircrew: opportunities to advance to officer rank and receive commissions
Check out the 50 Cheapest Guns Now


• Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO): opportunities to advance to master sergeant and senior master sergeant
• Officer Candidate School (OCS): opportunities to attend and commission as an officer
• Specialty Tracks: opportunities to specialize in fields like aviation, electronics, and intelligence

Additional Benefits

Air Force Reservists also enjoy additional benefits, including:

• Education and Training: access to Air Force schools, training programs, and education benefits like GI Bill
• Health and Wellness: access to Tricare, the Air Force’s healthcare system, and other wellness programs
• Travel Opportunities: deployment opportunities to worldwide locations and access to travel privileges
• Pensions: eligibility for the Air Force Retirement System
• VA Benefits: eligibility for VA healthcare, education, and compensation benefits

Conclusion

Air Force Reservists are paid for their part-time service, with rates varying depending on their grade, years of service, and specialty. In addition to basic pay, Air Force Reservists can receive special pays and bonuses for their service. Regular training drills provide additional income opportunities, and the Air Force Reserve offers career advancement opportunities, education benefits, and additional benefits like travel and health insurance.

Note: Basic pay rates are subject to change and may not include additional pays and bonuses. Annual income is calculated based on monthly basic pay rates.