Intro
Discover the Army Reserves pay scale and learn how much you can earn monthly. From basic pay to drill pay, allowances, and benefits, we break down the compensation for Army Reserve soldiers, including rates for different ranks, time-in-service, and deployable versus non-deployable status, helping you make informed decisions about your military career.
The Army Reserves is a great way to serve your country while still maintaining a civilian career. One of the benefits of joining the Army Reserves is the opportunity to earn a steady income while serving part-time. But how much do Army Reserves members actually earn? In this article, we'll break down the Army Reserves pay structure and explore how much they can expect to earn on a monthly basis.
Understanding the Army Reserves Pay Structure
The Army Reserves pay structure is based on a combination of factors, including rank, time in service, and drill status. Members of the Army Reserves are paid for their drill periods, which typically occur one weekend per month, known as a "drill weekend." They are also paid for their annual two-week training period, known as "annual training" (AT).
Drill Pay
Drill pay is the monthly payment that Army Reserves members receive for their drill periods. The amount of drill pay is based on the member's rank and time in service. The Army Reserves uses a pay scale that is similar to the active duty Army pay scale, with some adjustments for the part-time nature of the Reserves.
Here is the current drill pay scale for the Army Reserves:
| Rank | Time in Service | Drill Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Private (E-1) | 0-2 years | $219.24 |
| Private (E-2) | 2-3 years | $255.90 |
| Private First Class (E-3) | 3-4 years | $293.30 |
| Specialist/Corporal (E-4) | 4-6 years | $331.80 |
| Sergeant (E-5) | 6-8 years | $371.60 |
| Staff Sergeant (E-6) | 8-10 years | $413.30 |
Annual Training Pay
Annual training pay is the payment that Army Reserves members receive for their annual two-week training period. The amount of annual training pay is also based on the member's rank and time in service.
Here is the current annual training pay scale for the Army Reserves:
| Rank | Time in Service | Annual Training Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Private (E-1) | 0-2 years | $984.80 |
| Private (E-2) | 2-3 years | $1,157.40 |
| Private First Class (E-3) | 3-4 years | $1,331.60 |
| Specialist/Corporal (E-4) | 4-6 years | $1,510.80 |
| Sergeant (E-5) | 6-8 years | $1,697.20 |
| Staff Sergeant (E-6) | 8-10 years | $1,896.80 |
Total Monthly Pay
To calculate the total monthly pay for an Army Reserves member, we need to combine the drill pay and annual training pay. Since annual training pay is only received once per year, we can divide the annual training pay by 12 to get the monthly equivalent.
Here is an example of the total monthly pay for an Army Reserves member with 4 years of service and the rank of Specialist/Corporal (E-4):
- Drill pay: $331.80 per month
- Annual training pay: $1,510.80 per year / 12 = $125.90 per month
- Total monthly pay: $331.80 + $125.90 = $457.70 per month
Benefits and Allowances
In addition to their basic pay, Army Reserves members may also be eligible for a variety of benefits and allowances, including:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)
- Special Duty Pay
- Hazardous Duty Pay
- Combat Pay
These benefits and allowances can add thousands of dollars to an Army Reserves member's annual income.
How to Increase Your Army Reserves Pay
While the Army Reserves pay structure is standardized, there are several ways to increase your pay as a member of the Reserves. Here are a few strategies:
- Advance in rank: As you gain experience and time in service, you can advance in rank, which will increase your pay.
- Take on special duties: Special duty pay is available for members who take on additional responsibilities, such as drill sergeant or instructor duties.
- Participate in hazardous duty: Members who participate in hazardous duty, such as parachute training or combat deployments, may be eligible for hazardous duty pay.
- Complete additional training: Members who complete additional training, such as language training or specialized skills training, may be eligible for special pay.
Conclusion
The Army Reserves pay structure is designed to provide a steady income for members who serve part-time. While the pay may not be as high as active duty pay, it can still be a significant source of income, especially when combined with benefits and allowances. By understanding the pay structure and taking advantage of opportunities to increase your pay, you can maximize your income as a member of the Army Reserves.
Army Reserves Pay Image Gallery
How much do Army Reserves members get paid?
+Army Reserves members are paid based on their rank and time in service. The pay scale varies from $219.24 per month for a Private (E-1) to $1,896.80 per month for a Staff Sergeant (E-6).
What is the difference between drill pay and annual training pay?
+Drill pay is the monthly payment that Army Reserves members receive for their drill periods, while annual training pay is the payment that they receive for their annual two-week training period.
Can I increase my Army Reserves pay?
+Yes, you can increase your Army Reserves pay by advancing in rank, taking on special duties, participating in hazardous duty, or completing additional training.