The amount of money you get after 4 years in the military varies significantly based on your specific branch of service, whether you are serving on active duty or in a reserve component, and your rank. The figures below represent the monthly base pay for certain enlisted ranks in the Army Reserve and Army National Guard with 4 years of service, based on 2024 Army pay tables.
Monthly Base Pay for Army Reserve and National Guard (2024)
For individuals serving in the Army Reserve or Army National Guard, the monthly base pay after 4 years of service, depending on rank, is as follows:
| Rank | Monthly Base Pay After 4 Years |
|---|---|
| Specialist or Corporal (E4) | $5,928.18 |
| Sergeant (E5) | $6,507.02 |
| Staff Sergeant (E6) | $7,251.74 |
Note: Pay for Private (E1) will be slightly lower for the first four months of service, but at 4 years, service members would typically be at higher ranks.
Understanding Your Military Compensation
It is important to understand that the figures provided above represent only the monthly base pay. Your total compensation in the military can also include various other benefits and allowances, which are not reflected in these base pay figures. These can include:
- Housing Allowance (BAH): For those not living in military housing, this allowance helps cover rent and utilities, varying by location and family status.
- Food Allowance (BAS): A monthly allowance to offset the costs of food.
- Special and Incentive Pays: Additional pay for specific skills, duties, or hazardous assignments.
- Medical and Dental Care: Comprehensive healthcare coverage for service members and their families.
- Educational Benefits: Programs like the GI Bill, which can provide funding for college or vocational training.
- Retirement Benefits: Eligibility for retirement plans after a certain number of years of service.
The exact total money received will depend on a combination of these factors, in addition to your base pay. Pay scales and benefits also differ between active duty service and reserve components across the various military branches (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, and Coast Guard).
