When Does National Guard Get Paid?
The National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces, composed of citizen-soldiers who serve part-time, typically one weekend a month and two weeks a year. As a part-time military force, National Guard members are paid for their service, but the timing and frequency of their payments may vary. In this article, we will explore when National Guard members get paid and what factors influence their pay schedule.
When Do National Guard Members Get Paid?
The National Guard is paid bi-monthly, which means that members receive their paychecks every two months. The pay periods for the National Guard are as follows:
- Pay Period 1: January 1 – February 28 (paid on or around February 15)
- Pay Period 2: March 1 – April 30 (paid on or around April 15)
- Pay Period 3: May 1 – June 30 (paid on or around June 15)
- Pay Period 4: July 1 – August 31 (paid on or around August 15)
- Pay Period 5: September 1 – October 31 (paid on or around October 15)
- Pay Period 6: November 1 – December 31 (paid on or around December 15)
Factors That Influence National Guard Pay
While the bi-monthly pay schedule provides a general framework for National Guard pay, there are several factors that can influence the timing and amount of a member’s pay. These factors include:
- Active Duty: National Guard members who are activated for active duty, such as during a deployment, may receive pay more frequently, typically monthly.
- Training: National Guard members who attend training exercises or drills may receive pay more frequently, typically bi-weekly or monthly.
- Missed Pay: National Guard members who miss a drill or training exercise may not receive pay for that period.
- Overseas Pay: National Guard members who are stationed overseas may receive pay more frequently, typically monthly, due to the higher cost of living abroad.
- Combat Zone Pay: National Guard members who are stationed in a combat zone may receive combat zone pay, which is an additional amount paid to members serving in a combat zone.
How Does National Guard Pay Work?
National Guard members are paid based on their rank, years of service, and the number of days they attend drills or training exercises. The pay structure for the National Guard is similar to that of the active duty military, with some differences. Here is a breakdown of the National Guard pay structure:
| Rank | Monthly Basic Pay | Annual Basic Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Private (E-1) | $1,733.50 | $20,800.00 |
| Private First Class (E-2) | $1,942.50 | $23,310.00 |
| Specialist/Corporal (E-4) | $2,330.10 | $27,960.00 |
| Sergeant (E-5) | $2,621.50 | $31,460.00 |
| Staff Sergeant (E-6) | $2,934.90 | $35,130.00 |
| Sergeant First Class (E-7) | $3,284.50 | $39,510.00 |
| Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (E-8) | $3,741.30 | $44,890.00 |
| Senior Master Sergeant/Master Sergeant (E-9) | $4,116.30 | $49,400.00 |
| Chief Master Sergeant (E-9) | $4,316.30 | $51,800.00 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Guard members are paid bi-monthly, with the pay periods varying throughout the year. The timing and frequency of National Guard pay can be influenced by factors such as active duty, training, missed pay, overseas pay, and combat zone pay. The National Guard pay structure is similar to that of the active duty military, with pay rates varying based on rank, years of service, and the number of days attended drills or training exercises. By understanding the National Guard pay schedule and structure, members can better plan their finances and make informed decisions about their military career.
