How Much Does the National Guard Pay?
The National Guard is a reserve military force that can be activated to support the active-duty military in times of war, natural disasters, or civil unrest. As a reserve component, the National Guard offers a unique opportunity to serve your country while continuing to work or pursue a civilian career. But, as with any job, there are questions about compensation.
Basic Pay
Before we dive into the various pay scales, it’s essential to understand the different types of pay the National Guard receives. Basic Pay is the military’s version of a civilian salary. It’s taxable and is paid monthly, usually on the 15th and 30th of each month. Basic Pay is adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. Here are the 2019 Basic Pay rates for the National Guard:
| Rank | 2019 Basic Pay |
|---|---|
| Private (E-1) | $1,733.10 per month |
| Private First Class (E-2) | $1,888.10 per month |
| Specialist/Corporal (E-4) | $2,071.10 per month |
| Sergeant (E-5) | $2,263.40 per month |
| Staff Sergeant (E-6) | $2,564.50 per month |
| Sergeant First Class (E-7) | $2,945.50 per month |
| Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (E-8) | $3,393.60 per month |
| Senior Master Sergeant (E-9) | $3,743.70 per month |
| Chief Master Sergeant (E-9) | $4,146.80 per month |
| Command Sergeant Major (E-9) | $4,334.50 per month |
Special Pays and Bonuses
In addition to Basic Pay, the National Guard offers various special pays and bonuses. These can include:
• Hazardous Duty Pay: Up to $150 per month for service in combat zones or hazardous duty areas
• Imminent Danger Pay: Up to $225 per month for service in imminent danger areas
• Ranger Pay: Up to $150 per month for service as a Ranger or Special Forces unit member
• Seamen’s and Aviation Pay: Up to $260 per month for service in these specialized fields
• Enlistment Bonuses: Up to $20,000 for enlisting in certain military occupational specialties
• Re-enlistment Bonuses: Up to $10,000 for re-enlisting in certain military occupational specialties
Allowances and Benefits
The National Guard also offers various allowances and benefits to its members. These can include:
• Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): A tax-free allowance to help offset housing costs
• Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): A tax-free allowance to help offset food costs
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): A retirement savings plan with employer matching
• Education Benefits: The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) and the Troops to Teachers program
• Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select and TRICARE Supplemental Insurance
• Leave and Holidays: Generous leave policies and over 11 federal holidays
Career Advancement
The National Guard offers several career advancement opportunities, including:
• Promotions: Regular promotions based on performance and time in service
• Training and Education: Opportunities to receive specialized training and education benefits
• Leadership Positions: Opportunities to serve in leadership positions, from squad leader to command level
• Civilian Career Opportunities: Opportunities to transition to civilian careers after serving in the National Guard
Conclusion
As you can see, the National Guard offers a range of compensation options, including Basic Pay, Special Pays and Bonuses, Allowances and Benefits, and Career Advancement opportunities. While the pay may not be as high as what you’d find in the active-duty military, it’s still a competitive offer, especially considering the opportunity to serve your country and continue working or pursuing a civilian career.
