Active duty service members receive far more than their base pay. BAS ($476.95/month enlisted, $328.48/month officer for 2026), BAH (tax-free housing allowance), TRICARE Prime at no cost, SGLI life insurance ($26/month for $500K coverage), TSP with up to 5% government match, free Tuition Assistance ($4,500/year), commissary savings (~22%), VA home loan eligibility starting at 90 days of active service, and dozens more benefits add substantial value — but only if you know they exist and how to use them.
This tool does two things: (1) calculates your total compensation in civilian-equivalent dollars, including the tax-free advantage on BAH and BAS plus the market value of healthcare, retirement match, and shopping savings; and (2) inventories every major active duty benefit with an estimated dollar value and a plain-language guide on how to actually claim it.
Built by a retired U.S. Navy Commander. Free, private, runs in your browser. 2026 rates sourced from DFAS, DoD Military Compensation, and federal regulations.