The military compensation system currently has over 70 separate types of pay, special pay and allowances. Allowances are monetary amounts (often non-taxable) that are paid to an individual in lieu of furnished quarters and subsistence. They are very important because they make up a large majority of a soldier’s pay. Army members at home or abroad, living with or without dependents, are eligible to receive allowances as a form of compensation. The payment amounts are determined each year and are based on The Military Appropriations Act and the Military Authorization Act. The amount a service member will acquire also varies depending on factors such as duty station, occupation, deployment status and pay grade.
- Army Clothing Allowance
- Moving and Relocation Allowance
- Housing Allowance
- Cost of Living Allowance
- Family Allowance
Allowances can be very helpful when meeting the many costs associated with housing, clothing, living expenses and travel. It is not only important to be informed of the many allowance benefits that exist but it is also important to know the requirements for eligibility.