Intro
Compare the pay and benefits of the National Guard vs Reserves in our comprehensive guide. Learn how Guard and Reserve compensation, drill pay, and active duty pay differ. Discover the advantages and disadvantages of each branch, including education benefits, veterans preference, and deployment rates.
Serving in the National Guard or Reserves can be a rewarding and challenging way to serve one's country while also maintaining a civilian career. One of the most important considerations for those thinking of joining the National Guard or Reserves is pay. While the pay structures for both branches are similar, there are some key differences that can affect how much you earn.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the pay structures of the National Guard and Reserves, including base pay, allowances, and special pays. We will also explore the differences between the two branches and provide examples of how pay can vary depending on rank, time in service, and other factors.
Understanding National Guard Pay
The National Guard is a reserve component of the US Armed Forces that can be called up to serve in times of war or national emergency. Members of the National Guard typically serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year, known as drill periods. During this time, they are paid according to their rank and time in service.
National Guard pay is based on the same pay scale as the active duty military, with some modifications. The pay scale is divided into two main categories: enlisted personnel and officers. Enlisted personnel are further divided into several pay grades, from E-1 (Private) to E-9 (Sergeant Major). Officers are also divided into several pay grades, from O-1 (Second Lieutenant) to O-10 (General).
National Guard Base Pay
National Guard base pay is the same as active duty base pay. It is based on the member's rank and time in service. Here is a rough estimate of National Guard base pay:
- E-1 (Private): $1,733.10 per month
- E-2 (Private First Class): $1,942.50 per month
- E-3 (Specialist/Corporal): $2,043.70 per month
- E-4 (Sergeant): $2,342.90 per month
- E-5 (Staff Sergeant): $2,664.10 per month
- E-6 (Technical Sergeant): $3,038.50 per month
- E-7 (Master Sergeant): $3,406.50 per month
- E-8 (Senior Master Sergeant): $4,046.50 per month
- E-9 (Chief Master Sergeant): $4,696.50 per month
- O-1 (Second Lieutenant): $3,287.10 per month
- O-2 (First Lieutenant): $3,787.10 per month
- O-3 (Captain): $4,383.90 per month
- O-4 (Major): $5,078.40 per month
- O-5 (Lieutenant Colonel): $5,874.90 per month
- O-6 (Colonel): $6,942.40 per month
Understanding Reserves Pay
The Reserves are a federal force that can be called up to serve in times of war or national emergency. Members of the Reserves typically serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year, known as drill periods. During this time, they are paid according to their rank and time in service.
Reserves pay is also based on the same pay scale as the active duty military, with some modifications. The pay scale is divided into two main categories: enlisted personnel and officers. Enlisted personnel are further divided into several pay grades, from E-1 (Private) to E-9 (Sergeant Major). Officers are also divided into several pay grades, from O-1 (Second Lieutenant) to O-10 (General).
Reserves Base Pay
Reserves base pay is the same as active duty base pay. It is based on the member's rank and time in service. Here is a rough estimate of Reserves base pay:
- E-1 (Private): $1,733.10 per month
- E-2 (Private First Class): $1,942.50 per month
- E-3 (Specialist/Corporal): $2,043.70 per month
- E-4 (Sergeant): $2,342.90 per month
- E-5 (Staff Sergeant): $2,664.10 per month
- E-6 (Technical Sergeant): $3,038.50 per month
- E-7 (Master Sergeant): $3,406.50 per month
- E-8 (Senior Master Sergeant): $4,046.50 per month
- E-9 (Chief Master Sergeant): $4,696.50 per month
- O-1 (Second Lieutenant): $3,287.10 per month
- O-2 (First Lieutenant): $3,787.10 per month
- O-3 (Captain): $4,383.90 per month
- O-4 (Major): $5,078.40 per month
- O-5 (Lieutenant Colonel): $5,874.90 per month
- O-6 (Colonel): $6,942.40 per month
National Guard and Reserves Pay Gallery
What is the difference between National Guard pay and Reserves pay?
+National Guard pay and Reserves pay are similar, but there are some differences. National Guard members are paid according to their rank and time in service, while Reserves members are paid according to their rank and time in service, as well as their drilling status.
How much do National Guard members get paid?
+National Guard members are paid according to their rank and time in service. The base pay for National Guard members is the same as active duty base pay.
How much do Reserves members get paid?
+Reserves members are paid according to their rank and time in service, as well as their drilling status. The base pay for Reserves members is the same as active duty base pay.
In conclusion, the pay structures for the National Guard and Reserves are similar, but there are some differences. Both branches pay their members according to their rank and time in service, but Reserves members are also paid according to their drilling status. By understanding the pay structures of both branches, you can make an informed decision about which branch is right for you.