2025-2026 Military Pay Raise Details

in this episode we take a deep dive into the Military Times report stating that while all service members received a 4.5% pay raise in January 2025, junior enlisted personnel (E-4 and below) will see an additional 10% increase in their basic pay this spring due to recent congressional approval. This targeted raise aims to bring nearly all troops' annual pay above $30,000 and addresses the basic pay structure determined by rank and service length. Looking ahead, the anticipated 2026 military pay raise is projected to be 3.8%, although Congress will ultimately decide on the final amount as part of the defense budget.