Understanding Pay for the 175th Finance Command (KY ARNG)
The 175th Finance Command is a vital unit within the Kentucky Army National Guard (KY ARNG), responsible for providing financial management support to soldiers and units. Understanding the pay structure for soldiers serving in this command is crucial for ensuring financial well-being and accurate compensation.
Components of Pay
KY ARNG soldiers in the 175th Finance Command, like all National Guard members, receive pay based on several factors:
- Basic Pay: Calculated based on rank (E-1 to O-10) and years of service. This is the foundation of military pay and increases with promotions and longevity.
- Drill Pay: Compensation for attending monthly drill weekends (typically one weekend per month). Drill pay is generally equivalent to four days of basic pay, spread across the two-day drill.
- Annual Training (AT) Pay: Paid during the required two weeks (or more) of annual training each year. This pay is calculated based on rank and years of service, similar to basic pay.
- Special Duty Pay (SDP): Soldiers may be eligible for additional pay based on specific duties or qualifications. This could include hazardous duty pay, flight pay, or language proficiency pay. Because the 175th is a Finance unit, SDP is less common, but potential exists based on individual roles.
- Allowances: Several allowances can supplement basic pay, including:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): Paid to eligible soldiers to offset the cost of housing when not residing in government quarters. BAH rates vary by location and rank.
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): Intended to cover the cost of meals.
- Family Separation Allowance (FSA): Paid to soldiers with dependents when deployed away from their family for more than 30 days.
Pay Schedules and Direct Deposit
National Guard pay is generally distributed bi-weekly via direct deposit to the soldier’s designated bank account. It is essential to maintain accurate banking information in the MyPay system to prevent delays or errors in payment. It is also important to retain LES statements to document the details of payments received.
Importance of Accurate Records
Soldiers in the 175th Finance Command, given their financial expertise, are expected to maintain impeccable personal financial records and ensure accuracy in their military pay accounts. This includes promptly reporting any discrepancies or errors to the appropriate channels, such as their unit administrator or the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS).
Seeking Assistance
If a soldier in the 175th Finance Command has questions or concerns regarding their pay, they should first consult with their unit’s administrative personnel or their chain of command. They can also utilize the resources available through DFAS, including the MyPay system and the DFAS website.