How is military base pay determined?

Military base pay is set by Congress annually through the NDAA and varies by rank and years of service. It's the foundation of military compensation.

What’s the difference between base pay and allowances?

Base pay is taxable and standard for all service members based on rank and tenure. Allowances like BAH and BAS are non-taxable and depend on location and family status.

Will the 2025 pay raise affect all ranks equally?

No, junior enlisted members (E-1 to E-4) receive a higher percentage increase (14.5%), while ranks E-5 and above see a uniform 4.5% raise.

Are military allowances subject to taxes?

No, allowances like BAH and BAS are non-taxable, which boosts the effective income for service members.

What additional pays are available in 2025?

Special pays for hazardous duty, combat zones, and retention bonuses are available, depending on eligibility and circumstances.

Can military pay vary by location?

Base pay is uniform nationwide, but allowances like BAH depend on the cost of living in the service member’s assigned location.

Do military retirees benefit from pay raises?

Military retirees’ pensions are adjusted annually for inflation, separate from active-duty pay raises.

How often are military pay tables updated?

Military pay tables are updated annually, typically with adjustments announced in the NDAA.

Comprehensive Guide to Career Enlisted Flyer Incentive Pay (CEFIP)

Career Enlisted Flyer Incentive Pay (CEFIP) is a financial incentive for enlisted personnel who perform operational flying duties and are designated as “Career Enlisted Flyers” by their respective service branch.

This pay acknowledges the unique demands and responsibilities associated with aviation-related roles in the military.

Operational Flying Duty Requirements

To qualify for continuous CEFIP, career enlisted flyers in the Navy or Air Force must meet the following operational flying duty requirements during their aviation service:

6 of the first 10 years of aviation service.
9 of the first 15 years of aviation service.
14 of the first 20 years of aviation service.

Monthly Maximum CEFIP Rates

The monthly rate for CEFIP is determined by the member’s years of aviation service and cannot exceed the following:

CEFIP Rates for Navy and Air Force

Years of Aviation Service	Maximum Monthly Rate
4 or less	$150
Over 4	$225
Over 8	$350
Over 14	$400

Important Note: CEFIP is not transferable between services. If you transfer from the Navy to another branch, you must qualify under the new service’s CEFIP requirements.

CEFIP for Reservists

Reservists in the Navy and Air Force may also qualify for CEFIP. However, they receive incentive pay at 1/30th of the active-duty rate for the days they perform qualifying duties.

Air Force Critical Skill Incentive Pay (CSIP)

In addition to CEFIP, the Air Force provides Critical Skill Incentive Pay (CSIP) to UAS operators and other personnel in critical aviation-related skill slots. CSIP is designed to retain skilled airmen in specialized roles.

Air Force CSIP Rates

Years of Aviation Service	Monthly Rate
4 or less	$225
Over 4	$350
Over 8	$500
Over 14	$600

Flight Pay for Other Branches

While the Army, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard do not offer CEFIP, they provide Hazardous Duty Incentive Pay (HDIP) for flight duties. HDIP compensates service members who perform hazardous aviation tasks but do not qualify for career incentive pay.

HDIP Rates by Rank

Rank	Monthly Flight Pay
E-9	$240
E-8	$240
E-7	$240
E-6	$215
E-5	$190
E-4	$165
E-3	$150
E-2	$150
E-1	$150

Additional Considerations

Service Commitment: Enlisted flyers receiving CEFIP or CSIP must meet specific operational flying duty commitments and requirements established by their service branch.
Non-Transferable: As noted, CEFIP is non-transferable between branches, and eligibility must be re-established upon transfer.
Reservist Pay Calculation: Reservists should ensure their qualifying duty days are accurately documented to receive appropriate prorated pay.

Summary

Career Enlisted Flyer Incentive Pay, along with programs like the Air Force’s Critical Skill Incentive Pay, serves as a valuable tool to retain and reward enlisted personnel in aviation roles. Whether you’re on active duty or in the reserves, understanding the eligibility requirements and pay structure is essential for maximizing your compensation.

By meeting operational flying requirements and staying informed, career enlisted flyers can fully benefit from these financial incentives, ensuring they are recognized for their unique contributions to military aviation.