How Much Does a General Make? Flag Officer Pay (O-7 to O-10)
A four-star general or admiral (O-10) earns $18,808/month in basic pay in 2026 — the maximum allowed by law. Generals and admirals hit a hard ceiling: military basic pay can't exceed Level II of the Executive Schedule ($18,808.20/month, about $225,700/year).
2026 flag officer basic pay (monthly)
| Grade | Title (Army / Navy) | Over 20 yrs | Over 30 yrs |
|---|---|---|---|
| O-7 | Brigadier General / Rear Admiral (lower) | $16,818 | $17,242 |
| O-8 | Major General / Rear Admiral | $18,598 | $18,808 |
| O-9 | Lieutenant General / Vice Admiral | $18,808 | $18,808 |
| O-10 | General / Admiral (4-star) | $18,808 | $18,808 |
Because of the Executive Schedule cap, an O-9 and an O-10 receive the same basic pay in 2026 ($18,808/month). The "raise" from three to four stars is about responsibility and retirement, not the monthly basic-pay number.
What a general's total compensation looks like
On top of basic pay, generals receive tax-free BAH and BAS, often live in government quarters, and may receive Personal Money Allowances for senior positions. Total cash compensation for a four-star runs roughly $235,000–$250,000+/year — substantial, but far below what equivalent private-sector executives earn.
The real payoff: the pension
A general retiring at 30+ years under the legacy system can draw 75% of their high-3 basic pay — well over $160,000/year for life, plus COLA. See how military retirement is calculated.
Curious about any rank? Look up exact 2026 pay in the calculator.
Calculate my pay →Frequently asked questions
How much does a 4-star general make?
In 2026, a four-star general or admiral (O-10) earns $18,808/month in basic pay — the maximum allowed, capped at Executive Schedule Level II (about $225,700/year), plus tax-free allowances.
Why do O-9 and O-10 make the same pay?
Military basic pay is capped at Level II of the Executive Schedule ($18,808.20/month in 2026), and both grades hit that ceiling, so their basic pay is identical.
How much is a general's pension?
A general retiring at 30+ years under the legacy system can receive 75% of their high-3 basic pay — over $160,000/year for life, plus annual COLA.