Military Special Pay Rates Most Service Members Miss Out On

Beyond Base Pay: The Hidden Compensation Multipliers

Most service members focus exclusively on base pay when evaluating military compensation. However, special and incentive pays can add $5,000-$50,000+ annually to your paycheck—yet many eligible service members never apply for or receive these benefits.

Aviation Incentive Pay (Flight Pay)

Aviators and crew members receive monthly flight pay ranging from $150 to $1,000/month depending on years of aviation service. Over a 20-year flying career, this totals $50,000-$240,000 in additional compensation.

Hazardous Duty Incentive Pay

Service members performing hazardous duties receive $150-$250/month in additional pay. Qualifying duties include: parachute jumping, demolition work, flight deck duty, and diving. Many qualify for multiple hazardous duty pays simultaneously, potentially earning $300-$600/month.

Foreign Language Proficiency Pay (FLPP)

Service members demonstrating proficiency in critical foreign languages receive $100-$500/month. Strategic languages like Arabic, Chinese, Russian, and Farsi command higher rates. Over a career, FLPP can total $50,000-$120,000.

Special Duty Assignment Pay (SDAP)

Certain difficult assignments receive SDAP of $75-$450/month. Common positions: recruiters, drill instructors, and special operations personnel. A three-year recruiting assignment at $450/month SDAP provides $16,200 in additional compensation.

Don’t Leave Money on the Table

Special pays can add $50,000-$200,000+ to career earnings. Review all pays applicable to your service and ensure you’re receiving every dollar you’ve earned.