Military pay reference

Military Allowances and Special Pay

Allowances and special pays can materially change compensation, but eligibility rules are as important as the published amount.

GuideLast verified: August 18, 2026Independent reference

Location-based housing allowance for every 2026 Military Housing Area and pay grade.

2026 officer, enlisted and BAS II monthly rates.

Understand Family Separation Allowance eligibility, start and stop dates, dual-military rules and how FSA appears on military pay records.

How CONUS COLA works, which locations qualify, what factors affect the amount and why a local cost-of-living difference does not guarantee payment.

How overseas COLA is calculated, why rates can change frequently and which family, location and currency factors affect the payment.

An overview of initial, replacement and extra clothing allowances, eligibility timing and how service-specific clothing payments differ.

The difference between Hostile Fire Pay and Imminent Danger Pay, designated areas, monthly limits and common pay-record questions.

How Career Sea Pay depends on grade, cumulative sea duty and vessel or assignment category, plus when Sea Pay Premium can apply.

A directory-style explanation of military special and incentive pay categories, qualification rules and how to verify current rates.

Eligibility is assignment-specific. A published special-pay rate does not establish that an individual member is entitled to receive it.