Do You Get Paid in Air Force Basic Training?
The United States Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) is a rigorous 7-week program designed to transform civilians into airmen. One of the most common questions asked by prospective recruits is whether they will receive a paycheck during their time at BMT. In this article, we will provide a direct answer to this question and delve into the details of Air Force pay during basic training.
Do You Get Paid in Air Force Basic Training?
The answer is yes, you will receive a paycheck during Air Force Basic Military Training. As a recruit, you will be paid a base salary, which is determined by your pay grade and time in service. As of 2022, the starting pay for Air Force recruits is $1,733.10 per month.
Contents
Pay Grades and Pay Scales
The Air Force uses a pay grade system, which is based on the recruit’s rank and time in service. The pay grades range from E-1 (Airman Basic) to E-9 (Chief Master Sergeant). Here is a breakdown of the pay grades and their corresponding monthly salaries:
| Pay Grade | Monthly Salary (2022) |
|---|---|
| E-1 (Airman Basic) | $1,733.10 |
| E-2 (Airman) | $1,942.50 |
| E-3 (Airman First Class) | $2,151.90 |
| E-4 (Senior Airman) | $2,361.30 |
| E-5 (Staff Sergeant) | $2,571.70 |
| E-6 (Technical Sergeant) | $2,783.10 |
| E-7 (Master Sergeant) | $3,094.50 |
| E-8 (Senior Master Sergeant) | $3,405.90 |
| E-9 (Chief Master Sergeant) | $3,717.30 |
Allowances and Bonuses
In addition to their base salary, airmen may also receive various allowances and bonuses. These include:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): A monthly stipend to help offset the cost of housing.
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): A monthly stipend to help offset the cost of food.
- Special Duty Pay: Additional pay for airmen serving in special duty positions, such as flight pay or hazardous duty pay.
- Enlistment Bonuses: One-time bonuses paid to airmen who enlist for a certain period of time or in a specific career field.
- Re-enlistment Bonuses: One-time bonuses paid to airmen who re-enlist for an additional period of time.
Other Benefits
In addition to their paycheck, airmen also receive a range of benefits, including:
- Healthcare: Access to top-notch medical care, including dental and vision care.
- Education Benefits: Opportunities to pursue higher education, including the GI Bill and tuition assistance.
- Retirement Benefits: A comprehensive retirement package, including a pension and access to the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Leave and Holidays: Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- On-Base Amenities: Access to on-base amenities, including fitness centers, libraries, and recreational facilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, you will receive a paycheck during Air Force Basic Military Training. As a recruit, you will be paid a base salary, which is determined by your pay grade and time in service. Additionally, you may also receive various allowances and bonuses, as well as a range of benefits, including healthcare, education benefits, retirement benefits, leave and holidays, and on-base amenities. If you are considering joining the Air Force, it is essential to understand the pay and benefits that come with serving in the military.
Table: Air Force Pay Grades and Monthly Salaries (2022)
| Pay Grade | Monthly Salary (2022) |
|---|---|
| E-1 (Airman Basic) | $1,733.10 |
| E-2 (Airman) | $1,942.50 |
| E-3 (Airman First Class) | $2,151.90 |
| E-4 (Senior Airman) | $2,361.30 |
| E-5 (Staff Sergeant) | $2,571.70 |
| E-6 (Technical Sergeant) | $2,783.10 |
| E-7 (Master Sergeant) | $3,094.50 |
| E-8 (Senior Master Sergeant) | $3,405.90 |
| E-9 (Chief Master Sergeant) | $3,717.30 |
Note: The pay grades and salaries listed above are subject to change and may not reflect the current pay scale.
