Do National Guard Get Paid?
The National Guard is a reserve military force that consists of units from each state and US territory. Members of the National Guard are part-time soldiers who train and prepare to respond to emergencies and natural disasters, as well as support the active duty military in times of war. One of the most common questions about the National Guard is whether they get paid. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide an overview of the pay and benefits that National Guard members receive.
Direct Answer: Do National Guard Get Paid?
Yes, National Guard members do get paid. The pay and benefits for National Guard members are similar to those of active duty military personnel, with some exceptions. National Guard members are entitled to receive a monthly stipend, known as the "drill pay," which is based on their rank and the number of drill days they attend per month. In addition, National Guard members are also eligible to receive bonuses, educational benefits, and other forms of compensation.
Drill Pay
The drill pay for National Guard members is based on their rank and the number of drill days they attend per month. The drill pay rates are as follows:
| Rank | Drill Pay (per drill day) |
|---|---|
| Private (E-1) | $38.50 |
| Private First Class (E-2) | $43.50 |
| Specialist/Corporal (E-4) | $54.50 |
| Sergeant (E-5) | $64.50 |
| Staff Sergeant (E-6) | $75.50 |
| Sergeant First Class (E-7) | $87.50 |
| Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (E-8) | $100.50 |
| Sergeant Major (E-9) | $112.50 |
| Command Sergeant Major (E-9) | $122.50 |
National Guard members are typically paid for 39 drill days per year, which translates to a total annual stipend of:
| Rank | Annual Drill Pay (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Private (E-1) | $1,478.50 |
| Private First Class (E-2) | $1,701.50 |
| Specialist/Corporal (E-4) | $2,131.50 |
| Sergeant (E-5) | $2,511.50 |
| Staff Sergeant (E-6) | $2,931.50 |
| Sergeant First Class (E-7) | $3,417.50 |
| Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (E-8) | $3,900.50 |
| Sergeant Major (E-9) | $4,366.50 |
| Command Sergeant Major (E-9) | $4,666.50 |
Bonuses and Incentives
In addition to drill pay, National Guard members are also eligible to receive bonuses and incentives for their service. Some of the most common bonuses and incentives include:
- Enlistment bonuses: These are one-time payments made to new recruits who enlist in the National Guard.
- Re-enlistment bonuses: These are one-time payments made to National Guard members who re-enlist in the service.
- Special duty pay: This is a bonus paid to National Guard members who serve in special duty positions, such as recruiters or instructors.
- H Hazmat pay: This is a bonus paid to National Guard members who serve in hazardous duty positions, such as working with hazardous materials.
- Education benefits: National Guard members are eligible to receive education benefits, such as the Montgomery GI Bill and the GI Bill Kicker.
Education Benefits
National Guard members are eligible to receive education benefits, which can help them pay for college or vocational training. Some of the most common education benefits include:
- Montgomery GI Bill: This is a program that provides up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible National Guard members.
- GI Bill Kicker: This is a program that provides additional education benefits to eligible National Guard members who have served in combat zones.
- Tuition Assistance: This is a program that provides up to 100% tuition assistance to eligible National Guard members.
Other Benefits
In addition to drill pay, bonuses, and education benefits, National Guard members are also eligible to receive a range of other benefits, including:
- Health insurance: National Guard members are eligible to receive health insurance through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Retirement benefits: National Guard members are eligible to receive retirement benefits, which can include a pension and healthcare benefits.
- Home loan guarantees: National Guard members are eligible to receive home loan guarantees, which can help them purchase a home.
- Food and housing allowances: National Guard members are eligible to receive food and housing allowances, which can help them cover the costs of living.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Guard members do get paid. The pay and benefits for National Guard members are similar to those of active duty military personnel, with some exceptions. National Guard members are entitled to receive a monthly stipend, known as the "drill pay," which is based on their rank and the number of drill days they attend per month. In addition, National Guard members are also eligible to receive bonuses, educational benefits, and other forms of compensation.
