How Much Does National Guard Pay Part-Time?
The National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces, comprising units from each state and the District of Columbia. As a part-time military force, National Guard members are typically required to drill one weekend a month and attend an annual two-week training period, known as Annual Training (AT). In addition to their regular military duties, National Guard members may also be called to active duty in times of war or national emergency.
Pay Structure
The pay structure for National Guard members is based on their rank, time in service, and number of drills attended. National Guard pay is divided into two categories: Basic Pay and Drill Pay.
- Basic Pay: This is the base pay for National Guard members, which is determined by their rank and time in service. Basic pay ranges from $1,500 to $3,500 per month, depending on the member’s rank and years of service.
- Drill Pay: This is the pay for National Guard members who attend regular drills, which are typically held one weekend a month. Drill pay ranges from $100 to $200 per drill, depending on the member’s rank and years of service.
Pay Rates for National Guard Members
Here is a breakdown of the pay rates for National Guard members, based on their rank and time in service:
| Rank | 0-3 Years of Service | 4-6 Years of Service | 7-10 Years of Service | 11-14 Years of Service | 15+ Years of Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private (E-1) | $1,500 – $1,800 | $1,800 – $2,100 | $2,100 – $2,400 | $2,400 – $2,700 | $2,700 – $3,000 |
| Private First Class (E-2) | $1,800 – $2,100 | $2,100 – $2,400 | $2,400 – $2,700 | $2,700 – $3,000 | $3,000 – $3,300 |
| Specialist/Corporal (E-4) | $2,100 – $2,400 | $2,400 – $2,700 | $2,700 – $3,000 | $3,000 – $3,300 | $3,300 – $3,600 |
| Sergeant (E-5) | $2,400 – $2,700 | $2,700 – $3,000 | $3,000 – $3,300 | $3,300 – $3,600 | $3,600 – $3,900 |
| Staff Sergeant (E-6) | $2,700 – $3,000 | $3,000 – $3,300 | $3,300 – $3,600 | $3,600 – $3,900 | $3,900 – $4,200 |
| Sergeant First Class (E-7) | $3,000 – $3,300 | $3,300 – $3,600 | $3,600 – $3,900 | $3,900 – $4,200 | $4,200 – $4,500 |
| Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (E-8) | $3,300 – $3,600 | $3,600 – $3,900 | $3,900 – $4,200 | $4,200 – $4,500 | $4,500 – $4,800 |
| Senior Master Sergeant/Master Gunnery Sergeant (E-9) | $3,600 – $3,900 | $3,900 – $4,200 | $4,200 – $4,500 | $4,500 – $4,800 | $4,800 – $5,000 |
Additional Forms of Compensation
In addition to their basic pay and drill pay, National Guard members may also receive other forms of compensation, including:
- Bonuses: National Guard members may be eligible for bonuses for enlisting, re-enlisting, or completing certain training courses.
- Education Benefits: National Guard members may be eligible for education benefits, such as the Montgomery GI Bill or the GI Bill Kicker.
- Health Insurance: National Guard members may be eligible for health insurance through the TRICARE program.
- Retirement Benefits: National Guard members who complete 20 years of service may be eligible for retirement benefits, including a pension and health insurance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the pay for National Guard members is based on their rank, time in service, and number of drills attended. While the pay may not be as high as that of active-duty military personnel, National Guard members can still earn a decent income and receive additional forms of compensation. Whether you’re looking for a part-time military career or a way to serve your country while still pursuing other goals, the National Guard may be a good option for you.
