Does National Guard Pay for Housing?
The National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces, comprising units that can be called upon to support state and federal government efforts. As a National Guard member, you are required to maintain a secondary residence, which can lead to concerns about housing expenses. In this article, we will explore whether the National Guard pays for housing and what options are available to National Guard members.
Does the National Guard Pay for Housing?
In short, the answer is no, the National Guard does not pay for housing. However, National Guard members may be eligible for certain benefits and incentives that can help offset the cost of housing.
Types of Housing Allowances
The National Guard provides two types of housing allowances:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): This is a tax-free allowance provided to National Guard members who are on active duty. BAH is based on the member’s pay grade, location, and number of dependents.
- Special Duty Assignment Housing Allowance (SDAH): This is an additional allowance provided to National Guard members who are serving in a special duty assignment, such as a drilling instructor or a recruiter. SDAH is intended to help offset the cost of housing in areas where the cost of living is higher.
BAH Rates
Here is a table showing the 2022 BAH rates for National Guard members:
| Pay Grade | Single | With Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 | $1,369 | $1,692 |
| E-2 | $1,445 | $1,806 |
| E-3 | $1,538 | $1,945 |
| E-4 | $1,673 | $2,099 |
| E-5 | $1,849 | $2,314 |
| E-6 | $2,029 | $2,529 |
| E-7 | $2,264 | $2,851 |
| E-8 | $2,552 | $3,196 |
| E-9 | $2,842 | $3,576 |
How to Claim BAH
To claim BAH, National Guard members must submit a Request for Basic Allowance for Housing (DD Form 2368) to their unit’s finance office. The form requires information on the member’s pay grade, location, and dependents.
Housing Options for National Guard Members
While the National Guard does not pay for housing, there are several options available to National Guard members:
- Service Member’s Group Life Insurance (SGLI): National Guard members are eligible for SGLI, which provides life insurance coverage up to $400,000. The premiums are paid for by the government.
- Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH): The VASH program provides rental assistance and supportive services to eligible Veterans, including National Guard members.
- State-based programs: Some states offer housing assistance programs specifically for National Guard members. These programs may provide financial assistance, housing counseling, and other services.
- Private housing options: National Guard members can also consider private housing options, such as renting or buying a home. Many private companies offer discounts and incentives for military personnel.
Additional Benefits
In addition to BAH and SDAH, National Guard members may be eligible for other benefits that can help offset the cost of housing:
- Tax benefits: National Guard members may be eligible for tax benefits, such as the Mortgage Interest Deduction and the Military Housing Allowance Deduction.
- Home buying programs: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers several home buying programs, including the VA Guaranteed Loan Program and the VA Cash-Out Refinance Program.
- Housing counseling: Many organizations offer housing counseling services to National Guard members, including the National Guard Federal Credit Union and the Armed Forces Foundation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the National Guard does not pay for housing, but members may be eligible for housing allowances and other benefits that can help offset the cost of housing. National Guard members should research and take advantage of these benefits, as well as explore private housing options and state-based programs. By understanding their housing options and benefits, National Guard members can make informed decisions about their living arrangements and achieve their housing goals.
