AIR FORCE BENEFITS

FINANCIAL BENEFITS

Steady Pay Growth
Annual cost-of-living raises, regular longevity raises and competitive promotion opportunities.
Tax Advantages
Your housing and food allowances, which equals more than half your total pay, are not subject to Federal, State or Local tax.
Commissary and Exchange privileges
Both offer you a savings in excess of 20%, more if sales tax is charged in off-base establishments. The 20% is an average and will be more on some items and less on others.
Medical Benefits for the entire family
Low-cost Life Insurance
Qualifications for Veterans Administration Benefits
VA mortgages are available to purchase a home after 181 days of active military service.
Counseling and Assistance Programs
Military members can get free legal counseling and assistance, educational services counseling and may be provided personal financial management training where available. Zero interest emergency loans and grants may be provided by the Air Force Aid Society.
Space Available Travel
Members on leave may travel space-available on military aircraft. A $20 fee may be charged for each trip outside the continental United States.
Dependent Dental Insurance Plan
Active duty members with dependents (spouse and/or children) who reside in the US, Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands, may enroll in a Dental Plan for a nominal fee. This plan covers 100% of the cost of basic dental needs and up to 80% of the cost of restorative care, such as fillings.

Private Lessons
The Band of Liberty provides funds for private lessons with a professional teacher of your choosing.
Student Loan Repayment
New enlistees are eligible to receive up to $10,000 (pre-tax) for student loan repayment.
Student Loan Deferment
Student loans can be deferred for the first three years of active-duty service.
Montgomery GI Bill
Can provide thousands of dollars toward college education.
Tuition Assistance
While on active duty, tuition assistance pays 100% of cost for college courses.

Leave and Holidays
Military members receive 30 days paid vacation of leave per year with full pay and allowances. There is no limit to the number of sick days you may be authorized by doctors. Band members take leave in 2-week blocks during July and December/January.

Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Activities
Conveniently located, low-cost professionally managed activities and entertainment are provided. There is a bowling alley, club, child development center, movie theater, outdoor recreation center, library, youth center, aero club, auto shop, etc., all located on Hanscom Air Force Base. There is also a fitness center that is free for all active duty members and their dependents.