Does National Guard Get BAH?
The United States National Guard is a vital part of the country’s defense system, comprised of reserve units that can be activated in times of crisis or conflict. While many soldiers are familiar with the basics of military compensation, some may wonder whether the National Guard receives Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). In this article, we’ll dive into the details and answer this question directly.
What is BAH?
Before we dive into whether the National Guard receives BAH, let’s take a quick look at what BAH is. Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a housing allowance paid to active duty service members and some reservists to help them offset the cost of living off-base. BAH rates are calculated based on factors such as pay grade, family size, and the cost of housing in a specific area. In general, BAH is meant to cover a significant portion of a service member’s housing expenses.
Who is Eligible for BAH?
Not All National Guards are Eligible for BAH
The short answer is: not all National Guards are eligible for BAH. BAH is primarily paid to active duty service members and some reservists who are drilling with a Reserve component. In other words, if you’re a part-time National Guard soldier, you might not receive BAH. But don’t worry, there are some exceptions!
Exceptions: Full-Time National Guard (FTRS) and Full-Time Support (FTS)
There are a few cases where National Guard soldiers can receive BAH:
• Full-Time National Guard (FTRS): FTRS are National Guards who are called to full-time duty. In this case, they become an integral part of the military’s active-duty force, receiving the same benefits, including BAH, as active-duty personnel.
• Full-Time Support (FTS): FTS are National Guards who provide full-time support to a federal agency, such as the Department of Homeland Security. In these cases, they are essentially federal employees, receiving similar benefits to active-duty personnel, including BAH.
When Can National Guards Expect BAH?
For those who are eligible for BAH, when can they expect to receive it?
• Drill Days: BAH is usually paid out on the day you drill, but there might be a delay if there’s an issue with your record.
• Annual Training (AT): You can expect BAH payment on the last day of AT, unless your drill is extended beyond that.
• Mobilization: If you’re called to active duty for more than 30 days, you’ll receive BAH like active-duty personnel.
What’s the Catch?
While it’s true that some National Guards can receive BAH, there are some conditions to consider:
• Offset for Income: BAH might be offset if you’re receiving income from other sources, such as a spouse’s income.
• Reimbursement for Dependent Care: BAH can be used for reimbursement for dependent care costs.
• Other Compensation: Other forms of compensation, like base pay and subsistence, might be taken into account when calculating BAH.
Concluding Remarks
In conclusion, some National Guards receive BAH, while others don’t. BAH eligibility is tied to whether you’re a part-time National Guard soldier, FTRS, or FTS. As a result, BAH payments will vary depending on your individual circumstances.
Here’s a quick summary in a table:
Eligibility Criteria | BAH Eligibility |
---|---|
Part-time National Guard (Drilling Reserves) | No |
Full-Time National Guard (FTRS) | Yes |
Full-Time Support (FTS) | Yes |
Remember that not all National Guards are eligible for BAH. It’s essential to check with your specific command and payroll office for accurate information regarding your compensation.
If you’re still unsure, consider consulting your service member handbook or seeking advice from a military pay specialist.
In the next article, we’ll dive into another military compensation-related topic: how to Optimize Your Military Housing Allowance.