National Guard Monthly Pay and Benefits: What You Need to Know
Joining the National Guard can be a rewarding and challenging career choice, offering a range of benefits and compensation. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 National Guard monthly pay and benefits, helping you understand what to expect as a Guardsman.
Understanding National Guard Pay
National Guard pay is based on the federal pay scale, which is determined by rank and time in service. Guardsmen are paid on a part-time basis, with pay calculated as one day’s active duty pay for each drill period. Drill periods typically occur one weekend per month, with additional pay for annual training (AT) periods.
Top 5 National Guard Monthly Pay and Benefits
Here are the top 5 National Guard monthly pay and benefits:
1. Basic Pay
National Guard basic pay is the same as active duty military pay, based on rank and time in service. For example, an E-4 (Specialist/Corporal) with 4 years of service would earn around $2,800 per month.
2. Drill Pay
Drill pay is calculated as one day’s active duty pay for each drill period. With 12 drill periods per year, this can add up to around 1,200-1,500 per month, depending on rank and time in service.
3. Annual Training (AT) Pay
Annual training pay is based on the number of days spent in AT, typically 14-15 days per year. This can add up to around 2,000-3,000 per year, depending on rank and time in service.
4. Education Benefits
The National Guard offers a range of education benefits, including the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) and the Army National Guard’s State Tuition Reimbursement Program. These benefits can help pay for college or vocational training, with up to 100% tuition reimbursement in some cases.
5. Health Insurance and Medical Benefits
National Guard members are eligible for low-cost health insurance through the TRICARE program, which offers comprehensive medical, dental, and pharmacy benefits. Additionally, Guardsmen may be eligible for medical and dental care through the Veterans Administration (VA) healthcare system.
Additional Benefits
In addition to these top 5 benefits, National Guard members may also be eligible for:
- Housing Allowance: Depending on location and family size, Guardsmen may be eligible for a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to help cover housing costs.
- Food Allowance: Guardsmen may also be eligible for a Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) to help cover food costs.
- Home Loan Guarantees: The National Guard offers home loan guarantees through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), making it easier to purchase a home.
- Veterans Preference: National Guard members are eligible for veterans preference when applying for federal jobs, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.
Conclusion
Joining the National Guard can be a rewarding and challenging career choice, offering a range of benefits and compensation. From basic pay and drill pay to education benefits and health insurance, the National Guard provides a comprehensive package of benefits to support its members. By understanding these benefits, you can make an informed decision about joining the National Guard and start building a rewarding career.
How much does the National Guard pay per month?
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National Guard pay varies based on rank and time in service, but basic pay can range from around 1,500 to over 3,000 per month.
What education benefits does the National Guard offer?
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The National Guard offers the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) and the Army National Guard’s State Tuition Reimbursement Program, which can help pay for college or vocational training.
Is National Guard health insurance available?
+Yes, National Guard members are eligible for low-cost health insurance through the TRICARE program, which offers comprehensive medical, dental, and pharmacy benefits.
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