how much money does a deployed soldier make

Military Compensation and Overseas Deployment

Members of the armed forces receive compensation structured around rank, time in service, and specific duty assignments. This compensation package includes base pay, allowances, and benefits.

Base Pay

Base pay is determined by the service member's rank and years of service. Pay grades range from E-1 (entry-level enlisted) to O-10 (General/Admiral). Each pay grade has multiple steps corresponding to years of service, resulting in incremental pay increases. Detailed pay charts are available publicly from the Department of Defense.

Allowances

Several allowances supplement base pay and are designed to offset the costs associated with military service. These may vary based on location, housing, and family status.

Housing Allowance (BAH)

BAH is location-based and varies depending on the cost of living in a specific area. It is intended to cover housing costs for service members, with rates adjusted based on rank and whether the member has dependents.

Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)

BAS provides a monetary allowance to offset food costs, regardless of the service member's location or deployment status.

Other Allowances

Other potential allowances may include those for hazardous duty, family separation, and cost of living adjustments depending on the specific assignment and conditions.

Deployment-Specific Considerations

Deployment to operational areas often leads to additional compensation or benefits. These frequently include:

  • Imminent Danger Pay (IDP): Provided for service members in designated combat zones or areas of imminent danger.
  • Hazardous Duty Pay (HDP): May be awarded for service in hazardous environments, even if not in a combat zone.
  • Family Separation Allowance (FSA): Provided to service members separated from their families due to deployment.
  • Combat-related Special Compensation: Various programs offering additional financial assistance to those wounded or injured while serving in combat.

Benefits

In addition to pay and allowances, service members are eligible for a comprehensive range of benefits, including healthcare (TRICARE), retirement plans, education assistance (GI Bill), and life insurance.

Specific compensation details are subject to change and should be verified through official Department of Defense resources.