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The Global Insight

Do reservists qualify for BAH?

Author

Olivia Zamora

Published Jan 11, 2026

BAH RC/T is a non-locality housing allowance for members in particular circumstances, for example, reservists on active duty for 30 or fewer days. It also applies when a member is in transit from selected areas where no prior BAH rate exists (such as overseas). It does not vary by geographic location.

How much is the housing allowance for Air Force?

The service member’s out-of-pocket cost share is now calculated to be about 5 percent of the actual cost of rent and utilities. DoD estimates that the out-of-pocket rates incorporated into the 2021 BAH rates range are from $70 to $158 monthly, and vary by pay grade and whether or not the service member has dependents.

What benefits does the Air Force Reserve offer?

Commissary: Unlimited shopping privileges for Reserve members and their families. Medical Coverage: You are authorized treatment of injuries or illnesses that occur during training periods. Dental Coverage: A civilian dental plan is available to you for a monthly fee. A family plan is available for an additional fee.

Do reservists get allowances?

Like the active duty troops, Reservists also get basic pay, allowances where appropriate, and special pay where appropriate. But this pay is offered only for the periods of service the Reservists show up for including training, drill weekends, and active duty service when activated.

How do reservists get paid?

Reserve pay is based on two weeks of training each year and one weekend each month otherwise known as Drill Pay plus any bonuses or allowance. Compensation is hourly for work completed and wages will increase with rank and years of experience (many newly enlisted Soldiers enter the Reserve as a private).

How much do reservists make?

Reservists can earn between $55.01 and $468.86 for each drill depending on their experience and military rank. The lowest pay rate is for reserve-component Marines who have less than four months of service. The highest pay rate is for an O-7 Commissioned Officer with over 40 years of experience.

What kind of Housing Allowance does the National Guard get?

National Guard and Reserve military personnel who are on active duty for 30 days or longer receive BAH Type I, the same housing allowance received by active duty members.

Is the air force required to provide housing?

Installations are required by DoD 4165.63-M and AF Policy to provide Housing Support and Referral Services to all DoD personnel and their dependents to help locate suitable, affordable, and nondiscriminatory housing in the local community or in privatized housing.

What is the basic allowance for housing rate?

2019 Basic Allowance for Housing Rates. The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is based on geographic duty location, pay grade, and dependency status. The intent of BAH is to provide uniformed service members housing compensation based on housing costs based on the local market.

What are the benefits of joining the Air Force Reserves?

Whether you choose to join the Air Force Reserves, or another branch Reserve component, there are benefits that you can count on to be available to you as long as you are an active reserve member. Being in the Air Force Reserves provides benefits to support you and your family now, as well as your future career.