MONEY

As a Soldier in the U.S. Army, you will be paid a salary. On top of that,
you can earn allowances, get bonuses and receive educational benefits.

EARNING MONEY IN THE ARMY

Different types of Soldiers earn different types of salaries.
Explore the different types of salaries below.

Soldier in combat gear holding a rifle.

BASIC PAY: ACTIVE DUTY SOLDIERS

Basic Pay is your base salary as a Soldier on active duty. It counts for just part of your total income.

ROTC cadet during military traning exercise.

Drill Pay: Part-time Soldiers

Army Reserve Soldiers and Army National Guard Soldiers earn Drill Pay while training on weekends and during full-time training events.

Two soldiers in a firefight taking cover behind a motorcycle.

SPECIAL PAY: FOR SPECIAL DUTIES AND SKILLS

There are dozens of types of extra pay for Soldiers and Officers with special skills or duties that carry extra responsibility or risk.

Sgt. Acosta holding a backpack.

ALLOWANCES: COVERING THE COST OF LIVING

In addition to salary and bonuses, the Army provides allowances for housing, meals and uniforms.

Soldier repairing satellite equipment.

BONUSES: EARNING EXTRA MONEY

There are many opportunities for active duty and reserve Soldiers to earn additional money.