Intro
Discover the compensation and perks of serving as a US Air Force First Lieutenant. Learn about the salary, allowances, and benefits, including base pay, BAH, and special pays. Understand the ranks responsibilities and how it compares to other military ranks. Get an inside look at the total compensation package for a US Air Force First Lieutenant.
As a First Lieutenant in the US Air Force, you hold a critical leadership role, responsible for guiding and mentoring airmen, and making key decisions that impact the success of your unit. But what does this position entail in terms of compensation and benefits? In this article, we'll delve into the world of US Air Force First Lieutenant pay and benefits, exploring the details of your salary, allowances, and perks.
Basic Pay
As a First Lieutenant (O-2) in the US Air Force, your basic pay is determined by your time in service and your rank. According to the 2022 military pay charts, a First Lieutenant with less than 2 years of service can expect a basic pay of $3,287.10 per month. As you gain more experience and time in service, your basic pay will increase. For example, a First Lieutenant with 2-3 years of service can earn a basic pay of $3,535.40 per month.
Allowances
In addition to basic pay, First Lieutenants in the US Air Force receive various allowances to help offset the costs of living and serving in the military. These allowances include:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): This allowance helps cover the cost of housing, whether you're living on or off base. The amount of BAH you receive depends on your location, pay grade, and family size.
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): This allowance provides a stipend for food and other subsistence expenses. As a First Lieutenant, you can expect to receive $253.63 per month in BAS.
- Cost of Living Allowance (COLA): If you're stationed in an area with a high cost of living, you may receive a COLA to help offset the expenses.
Benefits
As a First Lieutenant in the US Air Force, you're entitled to a wide range of benefits, including:
- Health Insurance: You and your family are eligible for comprehensive health insurance through TRICARE, which includes medical, dental, and pharmacy coverage.
- Retirement Plan: The US Air Force offers a retirement plan, known as the Blended Retirement System (BRS), which combines a defined benefit pension with a defined contribution plan.
- Education Assistance: You may be eligible for education assistance, including the GI Bill, to help pay for college or vocational training.
- Shopping Privileges: As a military member, you and your family have access to base exchanges, commissaries, and other shopping privileges.
Special Pays
In addition to basic pay and allowances, First Lieutenants in the US Air Force may be eligible for special pays, including:
- Flight Pay: If you're a pilot or navigator, you may receive flight pay, which ranges from $150 to $250 per month.
- Jump Pay: If you're a parachutist or participate in jump activities, you may receive jump pay, which ranges from $150 to $250 per month.
- Hazardous Duty Pay: If you're assigned to a hazardous duty, such as Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), you may receive hazardous duty pay, which ranges from $150 to $250 per month.
Total Compensation
When you factor in basic pay, allowances, benefits, and special pays, the total compensation package for a First Lieutenant in the US Air Force is quite competitive. According to the US Air Force, the total compensation package for a First Lieutenant with 2 years of service is approximately $73,000 per year.
Gallery of US Air Force First Lieutenant Pay and Benefits
US Air Force First Lieutenant Pay and Benefits Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a First Lieutenant in the US Air Force make?
+A First Lieutenant in the US Air Force can expect to earn a basic pay of $3,287.10 per month, with opportunities for increases based on time in service and performance.
What allowances do First Lieutenants in the US Air Force receive?
+First Lieutenants in the US Air Force receive a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), and Cost of Living Allowance (COLA), depending on their location and family size.
What benefits do First Lieutenants in the US Air Force receive?
+First Lieutenants in the US Air Force receive a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, education assistance, and shopping privileges.
As a First Lieutenant in the US Air Force, you can expect a competitive compensation package, including basic pay, allowances, benefits, and special pays. With opportunities for advancement and professional growth, a career as a First Lieutenant in the US Air Force can be a rewarding and challenging experience.