Sources we use
We use primary sources only: DFAS pay tables and pay pages, DTMO allowance rate files, militarypay.defense.gov, the DoD Financial Management Regulation, VA.gov rate tables, the Code of Federal Regulations, the U.S. Code, IRS publications, and documents from Congress and the White House. We do not use other calculators, forums or news sites as sources of fact.
How calculators are checked
Every calculator uses published, standard formulas. The code is covered by automated tests that check known answers (for example, VA combines 50% and 30% ratings to a combined value of 65%, which rounds up to 70%; and a 2026 E-5 with 4 years of service earns $3,946.80 a month in basic pay). We show the formula next to each tool so anyone can verify the result by hand.
What we will not publish
- Affiliate links, paid placements, or ads disguised as advice for loans, insurance, schools or claim services.
- Predictions of what VA or a finance office will decide in a specific case.
- Claims we cannot support with a source.
Updates and corrections
Each page shows the date it was last updated. DFAS publishes new pay tables each January, DTMO publishes BAH rates each December, VA updates compensation rates each December 1 and GI Bill rates each August 1. We update the data, re-run the tests and change the page dates when they do. If you find an error, tell us through the contact page and we will review it and correct it.