MilPayLabHow it works
Military pay is several separate payments added together. Basic pay comes from the DFAS pay table for your grade and years of service. Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) depends on your duty station ZIP code, grade and dependents. Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) is a flat monthly food allowance, one rate for enlisted members and one for officers. Special pays are added on top when your duty qualifies.
Monthly pay = Basic pay [grade, years of service]
+ BAH [ZIP → housing area, grade, dependents]
+ BAS [enlisted $476.95 · officer $328.48]
+ special pays
Annual pay = Monthly pay × 12
Sources: 2026 DFAS pay table and BAS rate; DTMO 2026 BAH rates (MHA CA038).
Example
An E-5 with 6 years of service and dependents, stationed in San Diego (ZIP 92136), receives basic pay plus BAH plus enlisted BAS each month.
Pay table for E-5
2026 monthly basic pay at each years-of-service step. Your step is highlighted.
| Years of service | Monthly basic pay | Annual basic pay |
|---|
Frequently asked questions
How much did military pay increase in 2026?
Basic pay rose 3.8% for all grades on January 1, 2026. BAS also increased, to $476.95 a month for enlisted members and $328.48 for officers.
Which parts of military pay are taxable?
Basic pay and most special pays are taxable income. BAH, BAS and Family Separation Allowance are non-taxable allowances. Pay earned in a designated combat zone may be excluded from federal income tax.
When does my pay go up with years of service?
Basic pay increases at set years-of-service milestones, such as over 2, 3, 4 and 6 years, then every two years. The new rate starts once you pass that milestone, counted from your Pay Entry Base Date.
Is this the amount I will see on my LES?
No. The calculator shows gross pay before deductions. Your Leave and Earnings Statement also subtracts federal and state tax, Social Security, Medicare, SGLI, TSP contributions and any allotments.
Who gets Family Separation Allowance?
FSA is paid to members with dependents who are separated from them for more than 30 consecutive days because of military orders, such as a deployment or an unaccompanied tour. The rate is $300 per month.
MilPayLab is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Defense, DFAS, DTMO or the Department of Veterans Affairs. Results are estimates based on published rate tables and are not financial advice. Special pay eligibility and amounts depend on your orders and service rules; your finance office and your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) are the final word on what you are paid. Nothing you enter on this page is stored or sent anywhere.