Hi folks! I've got my eyes set on doing military service and the Navy is one prime contender. How do they calculate deployment pay? Any info will be much appreciated.
Sure, happy to help clarify! The U.S. Navy follows Department of Defense-established guidelines for calculating deployment pay, which can vary based on several factors.
1. Basic Pay: This is determined by your rank and years of service, following a government-issued pay scale that updates annually.
2. Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): This is meant to offset costs for a member's meals, and it varies somewhat based on the status (officer or enlisted).
3. Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): For those not provided government housing, the BAH varies by location, pay grade, and dependents.
4. Family Separation Allowance (FSA): If your deployment separates you from your dependents for more than 30 days, you're eligible for an FSA.
5. Hostile Fire/Imminent Danger Pay: If you're deployed to a designated hostile fire zone, you could qualify for this pay.
6. Sea Pay: As a Navy member, if your duties involve extended periods at sea, you could qualify for Sea Pay.
7. Special Duty Assignment Pay: Some roles or assignments may have additional pay due to their unique demands or skills required.
Remember, these are just the basics. Tax situations, savings plans like the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and other factors can also play a role in your overall income. It's important to talk to a Navy recruiter or financial counselor to get a clear picture of what your specific situation might look like.
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