How Much Do You Make in the Air Force Reserves?
Joining the Air Force Reserves can be a great career move for those looking for a fulfilling and financially rewarding experience. As a reserve member, you’ll be able to serve your country while also maintaining a civilian career or pursuing personal interests. But one of the most important questions to ask is: how much do you make in the Air Force Reserves?
Basic Pay
In the Air Force Reserves, your basic pay will depend on your rank, experience, and time served. Here’s a breakdown of the basic pay ranges for Air Force Reserves personnel:
- Airmen (E-1 to E-5): $1,733.10 – $3,555.50 per month
- Staff Sergeant (E-6): $3,656.80 – $4,345.70 per month
- Technical Sergeant (E-7): $4,364.30 – $5,351.80 per month
- Master Sergeant (E-8): $5,361.80 – $6,439.10 per month
- Senior Master Sergeant (E-9): $6,439.10 – $7,535.90 per month
Bonus Pay
In addition to basic pay, Air Force Reservists can also earn bonus pay for specific skills or specialties. Here are some examples:
- Sign-On Bonuses: Up to $20,000 for enlisting in a critical career field or signing a longer enlistment contract
- Continuation Pay: Up to $10,000 per year for serving an additional two years
- Career Enlistment Bonuses: Up to $10,000 for enlisting in a career field with a shortage of personnel
Flight Pay
For Air Force Reservists who are also pilots or fly as a crew member, there are additional pay benefits:
- Flight Pay: $250-$1,500 per month for flying hours accumulated
- Flight Officer Pay: $50-$300 per month for pilots who fly on a regular basis
Specialty Pay
Air Force Reservists in certain specialty roles can also earn additional pay:
- Hazardous Duty Pay: $150-$500 per month for working in hazardous environments
- Dive Pay: $25-$150 per month for certified scuba divers
- Parachute Pay: $25-$100 per month for skydivers
Tax-Free Combat Pay
For Air Force Reservists who are deployed in combat zones, there’s also tax-free combat pay:
- Combat Zone Pay: Up to 25% of base pay can be exempt from federal income taxes
Other Benefits
While pay is an important consideration, it’s not the only benefit of serving in the Air Force Reserves. Here are some other benefits to keep in mind:
- Education Assistance: Up to $250 per month in tuition assistance for pursuing a degree or certification
- Healthcare: Access to TRICARE healthcare coverage for you and your family
- Paid Training: Paid training opportunities to develop new skills or improve existing ones
- Travel Opportunities: Travel to different parts of the world and experience new cultures
Conclusion
Joining the Air Force Reserves can be a rewarding and financially rewarding experience. While pay varies depending on your rank, experience, and specialty, there are many opportunities to earn bonus pay, flight pay, and specialty pay. Add in the tax-free combat pay and other benefits, and you’ll see that serving in the Air Force Reserves can be a smart financial move.
