The largest pay raise in two decades is coming for military members in 2023. The 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed the House on December 8.2022, the Senate on December 15, 2022, and was signed by President Biden on December 23, 2022, just before the federal holiday. Within the NDAA, a pay raise is listed for active-duty troops, drilling Guard, reserve members, and civilian members within the Defense Department.
The NDAA included a 4.6 % raise for the 2023 fiscal year. For comparison, in the 2022 NDAA, a 2.7% pay raise was included. This could mean an increase of about $1,000 over the year for junior enlisted military members.
An increase in Basic Allowance for Subsistence rates was also included. The increase of 11% is provided to those military members who live outside of the barracks. The monthly BAS payment in 2023 will be $311.68 for officers and $452.56 for enlisted members.
The military pay increase does not match the current inflation rate. The inflation rate as of October 2022 was 7.7%. While a pay raise is typically included with the idea that it will offset inflation, it does not specifically address inflation. While this pay increase may be the largest in years, it will be covering basic necessities that have increased in cost with the highest inflation rate in years.
The pay changes will be reflected in the January 15th check as that check covers the time period of January 1 to January 15.
Wonder this doesn’t apply to retirees. Our expenses have increased as much as other military.
Retirees get an 8.7% cola.
“The NDAA included a 4.6 % raise for the 2023 fiscal year… This could mean an increase of about $1,000 a month for junior enlisted military members.”
How is $1000 a month increase possible for junior enlisted? Was that $1000 a year increase?
Yes, over the year.