How Much Do Navy SEALs Get Paid a Year?
The United States Navy provides one of the world's top elite special operation forces. President John F. Kennedy created the Navy's "Sea, Air and Land" specialists, commonly known as SEALs in 1962. SEALs train to conduct combat operations throughout the world and in every environment. SEALs arrive into their area of operations through multiple means, including parachuting and long-distance combat diving. Becoming a Navy SEAL requires a deep commitment and fortitude few possess. Navy SEALs receive pay based upon their time in service and their rank, just like everyone else in the Navy, although they do receive some special duty and hazardous duty pay as well.
Other People Are Reading
-
Base Pay
-
A SEAL's base pay depends upon his rank and years of service. A SEAL's base pay matches the base pay of any other sailor holding the same rank with the same number of service years. As of 2011, a SEAL who holds the rank of Chief Petty Officer (pay grade E-7) with 10-years of service receives $3,554.70 per month in base pay. As SEALs obtain promotions and increase their number of years of service, their base compensation rises appropriately.
Housing Allowance
-
Navy SEALs authorized to receive Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) receive payment based upon their rank and if they have dependents. Married SEALs or SEALs with children receive a higher amount of housing allowance than single SEALs. As of 2011, a Chief Petty Officer with dependents receives $961.80. Single Navy SEALs receive $721.50 each month for housing. BAH is tax-free income for every SEAL and sailor.
-
Meal Allowance
-
The Navy pays for the cost of the SEAL's food, just as they do for every other sailor. This pay is called Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS). As of 2011, enlisted SEALs receive $325.04 per month to pay for their meals. Officers receive only $223.84 per month for their meals. Like BAH, the IRS does not tax BAS either.
Bonus Pay
-
Newly enlisted SEALs receive a bonus of $20,000 and the Navy authorizes re-enlistment bonuses up to $90,000. Enlisted SEALs sign contracts between four and eight years long, which obligates their service to the Navy. Officers, including SEALs, do not sign contracts like enlisted personnel.
Special Duty Pay
-
SEALs receive many types of special duty pay and imminent danger pay. While in combat zones, Navy SEALs receive $225 a month and may receive tax relief on all of their income earned while in the combat zone. Additionally SEALs receive extra compensation, including dive pay up to $340, parachute pay and demolition pay.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
