How Much Can You Make in the National Guard?
Serving in the National Guard can be a rewarding experience, offering a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and personal growth. But one of the most common questions potential recruits ask is: "How much can I make in the National Guard?" In this article, we’ll delve into the various ways National Guard members can earn income, from basic pay and allowances to bonuses and other incentives.
Basic Pay and Allowances
Basic Pay: As a National Guard member, you’ll receive a monthly salary, known as basic pay, which is based on your rank and years of service. Here’s a breakdown of the basic pay rates for enlisted personnel and officers:
| Rank | Enlisted | Officer |
|---|---|---|
| Private | $1,733 – $2,136 | N/A |
| Private First Class | $1,933 – $2,336 | N/A |
| Specialist/Corporal | $2,033 – $2,536 | N/A |
| Sergeant | $2,133 – $2,736 | N/A |
| Staff Sergeant | $2,233 – $2,936 | N/A |
| Sergeant First Class | $2,333 – $3,136 | N/A |
| Master Sergeant/First Sergeant | $2,433 – $3,336 | N/A |
| Sergeant Major | N/A | $3,436 – $4,536 |
Allowances: In addition to basic pay, National Guard members may also receive various allowances, such as:
• 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 cover food costs.
• Special Pays: Additional pay for duties such as drill instructor, recruiter, or instructor.
• Hazardous Duty Pay: Additional pay for serving in hazardous or high-risk environments.
Bonuses and Incentives
Enlistment Bonuses: New recruits can receive enlistment bonuses, which are designed to attract new talent and fill specific job specialties. These bonuses can range from $1,000 to $20,000, depending on the job and the individual’s qualifications.
Re-enlistment Bonuses: Existing National Guard members can receive re-enlistment bonuses, which are designed to retain skilled personnel. These bonuses can range from $1,000 to $50,000, depending on the individual’s rank, experience, and job specialty.
Education Benefits
Montgomery GI Bill: National Guard members can earn education benefits through the Montgomery GI Bill, which provides up to $1,000 per month for up to 36 months.
Tuition Assistance: The National Guard offers tuition assistance, which covers 100% of tuition and fees for approved courses, up to $250 per credit hour.
Job Opportunities
Civilian Jobs: National Guard members can leverage their military skills and experience to secure civilian jobs, which can often pay higher salaries than comparable civilian positions.
National Guard Jobs: The National Guard offers a range of civilian jobs, including emergency management, logistics, and administrative positions.
Veterans’ Preference
Federal Jobs: National Guard members can receive veterans’ preference when applying for federal jobs, which can give them an edge in the hiring process.
State Jobs: Many states offer veterans’ preference when hiring for state jobs, which can also provide an advantage.
Conclusion
As you can see, National Guard members can earn a significant income through a combination of basic pay, allowances, bonuses, and incentives. From enlistment bonuses to re-enlistment bonuses, education benefits, and job opportunities, there are many ways to increase your earnings while serving in the National Guard. Whether you’re looking to start a career, further your education, or simply serve your country, the National Guard can provide a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
