Fact check: What is the current pay scale for National Guard soldiers versus active duty soldiers?

1. Summary of the results

The current pay scale for National Guard soldiers versus active duty soldiers is a complex issue, with various factors affecting their compensation ^[1]. According to the 2025 military pay charts, most military pay increased by 4.5% for 2025, with junior enlisted ranks receiving a 14.5% raise ^[2]. The Army's pay scales for active duty and part-time soldiers, including enlisted soldiers, warrant officers, and commissioned officers, are also available ^[3]. Additionally, National Guard members on state active duty can earn higher pay than their active duty counterparts in some states, such as Maryland ^[1]. The factors that affect military pay, such as paygrade and years of service, are also important to consider ^[2]. Key points to note are the differences in pay scales between active duty and National Guard soldiers, as well as the various benefits available to soldiers, such as bonuses, housing and food allowances, and education and training opportunities ^[3]. The 2025 military pay raise is 4.5% for most service members, with junior enlisted members receiving a 14.5% raise ^[2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some sources highlight that National Guard members on state active duty do not receive drill pay, but are instead compensated on a monthly basis with Basic Pay, similar to their active duty counterparts ^[4]. However, the compensation for being in the Army or Air National Guard is less than full-time pay since the commitment is only on weekends and special training sessions ^[5]. It is essential to consider the specific circumstances of each soldier, including their paygrade, years of service, and type of duty, to determine their exact pay scale ^[2]. Furthermore, some organizations, such as MOAA, support a 15% pay raise for junior enlisted members, in addition to the proposed 4.5% servicewide hike, to help them keep up with rising costs ^[6]. The Senate's NDAA draft included a smaller increase of 5.5% for junior enlisted members ^[6]. Alternative viewpoints, such as the potential impact of the pay raise on soldier retention and recruitment, are also crucial to consider ^[7].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be misleading, as it does not account for the various factors that affect military pay, such as paygrade and years of service ^[2]. Additionally, the statement does not consider the differences in pay scales between active duty and National Guard soldiers, as well as the various benefits available to soldiers ^[3]. The statement may benefit those who want to simplify the complex issue of military pay, but it may not accurately represent the reality of soldier compensation ^[1]. The sources that provide the 2025 military pay charts and explain the factors that affect military pay may benefit the military and government, as they provide transparency and clarity on the issue ^[2]. On the other hand, the sources that highlight the need for a higher pay raise for junior enlisted members may benefit organizations that advocate for soldier welfare, such as MOAA ^[6]. Ultimately, it is crucial to consider multiple sources and viewpoints to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue ^[2].