How to Calculate Military Housing Allowance

Calculate the basic allowance for housing for non-military housing.

Military service members are entitled to a military housing allowance if they are not living in the barracks or housing provided by the military. There are a few things that play into the calculation of basic allowance for housing (BAH), which is a nontaxable allowance.

Instructions

1. Determine your rank. Military BAH rates are dependent on the rank of the military member, and increases as promotions are obtained.

2. Determine if you are eligible for the single or with-dependents BAH rate. The single military BAH rate is generally 25 percent less than the with-dependents rate. Even if you are not married, you may still be eligible for the with-dependents rate if you are supporting children or dependent parents.

3. Find the correct ZIP code. While you are in training, BAH is based on the ZIP code where your dependents live. After training is complete and you are assigned to your first permanent duty station, BAH is determined based on the ZIP code of the military post.

4. Visit the Department of Defense's BAH website. Enter your rank, dependent status and ZIP code to view the BAH rate.

Tips & Warnings

• If you believe your BAH is incorrect, check the BAH fields on your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES). If there are errors, go to your unit's finance office to have it corrected.

References

• U.S. Department of Defense: Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)