Military (Basic) Pay
Basic Pay Foundation
Basic Pay Definition
Basic pay is the fundamental component of military pay, and typically the largest component of a member's pay.
Annual Pay Raise Authority
NDAA Sets Pay
Annual military pay raises are set by Congress and the U.S. President in the National Defense Authorization Act.
When and How the Raise Is Calculated
1 January Pay Raise
In accordance with federal law, the 1 January annual pay raise will automatically match the private sector wage increases, as measured by the Employment Cost Index for the previous year.
Lower Pay Raise Provision
National Emergency Lower Raise
If national emergencies or serious economic conditions affect general welfare, the U.S. President may propose that Congress instill a lower annual pay raise.
Military Pay Date
Pay Date Determines Length
The military pay date determines the length of service for pay purposes.
Default Rule
Default Pay Date
In general, the pay date should be the same date the individual entered on RegAF status if he or she had no prior service before entering the USAF.
Adjustments for Prior Service
Prior Service Credit
However, if the individual previously served in certain governmental agencies, the USAF adjusts the pay date to reflect credit for these periods.
Negative Adjustments
Negative Pay Date Adjustments
In the event of:
- Periods of absence without leave
- Desertion
- Sickness or injury due to personal misconduct
…negative pay date adjustments may result.