2026 Military Pay Raise: 3.8% Increase Explained
Military basic pay rose 3.8% for 2026, effective January 1, 2026. The increase applies to every rank and shows up on the mid-January paycheck.
What the 3.8% raise means in dollars
The percentage is the same for everyone, but the dollar amount depends on your basic pay. A few examples (per month):
| Rank (years) | 2026 basic pay | Monthly raise |
|---|---|---|
| E-4 (over 4) | $3,659 | +$134 |
| E-5 (over 6) | $4,110 | +$150 |
| E-7 (over 12) | $5,592 | +$205 |
| O-3 (over 6) | $7,737 | +$283 |
How the military pay raise is set
By law, the annual military pay raise is tied to the Employment Cost Index (ECI), which tracks private-sector wage growth. Congress and the President can approve a different figure, but 3.8% is the 2026 increase to basic pay.
What about BAH and BAS?
Allowances change on their own schedules. BAH is updated each January based on local housing costs (up about 4.2% on average for 2026), and BAS rose 2.4% (to $476.95 enlisted / $328.48 officer). So your total raise can differ from 3.8% depending on where you live.
See your 2026 pay with the new rates applied.
Calculate my pay →Frequently asked questions
How much is the 2026 military pay raise?
Basic pay increased 3.8% for 2026.
When does the 2026 pay raise start?
It took effect January 1, 2026 and appears on the mid-January paycheck.
Did BAH and BAS also increase?
Yes. BAH rose about 4.2% on average and BAS rose 2.4% to $476.95 (enlisted) and $328.48 (officer).