How Much Does an E-4 Make in 2026?
In 2026 a Corporal / Specialist / Petty Officer Third Class (E-4) earns between $3,142 and $3,815 per month in basic pay, plus tax-free BAH and BAS.
2026 E-4 basic pay by years of service
| Years of service | Monthly basic pay |
|---|---|
| Less than 2 years | $3,142 |
| Over 2 years | $3,303 |
| Over 3 years | $3,482 |
| Over 4 years | $3,659 |
| Over 6 years | $3,815 |
| Over 8 years | $3,815 |
| Over 10 years | $3,815 |
An E-4's basic pay tops out at $3,815/month after 6 years. A common E-4 with 3 years earns $3,482/month in basic pay (about $41,784/year).
E-4 total pay with allowances
On top of basic pay, an E-4 typically receives tax-free BAH (varies by ZIP code and dependents) and BAS ($476.95/month). In many locations an E-4's total monthly entitlements land in the $4,500–$7,000 range once housing is included.
See your exact E-4 take-home pay — pre-filled for E-4, just add your ZIP.
Calculate my pay →How E-4 pay grows
The fastest way to increase your pay is promotion: moving from E-4 to E-5 raises basic pay immediately, and E-5 pay keeps climbing with years of service well past where E-4 stops.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an E-4 make in 2026?
An E-4 earns $3,142 to $3,815 per month in basic pay in 2026, plus tax-free BAH and BAS.
How much does an E-4 with 3 years make?
About $3,482 per month in basic pay, plus allowances.