Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)

BAS is meant to offset the cost of food for service members. This allowance is based on the historic origins of the military in which the military provided room and board (or rations) as part of a member's pay. This allowance is not intended to offset the costs of meals for family members. Beginning on January 1, 2002, all enlisted members get full BAS, but pay for their meals (including those provided by the government). This is the culmination of the BAS Reform transition period.

Since BAS is intended to defray a portion of the cost of food for the service member, its level is linked to the USDA’s food cost index. Therefore, each year the BAS rate is adjusted based upon the percentage increase of the price of food as identified by the USDA. This is why the increase to BAS will not necessarily be the same percentage as that applied to the increase in the pay table, as annual pay raises are linked to the increase of private sector wages.

2024 BAS Rates:

Officers

  • $316.98/month

Enlisted Members

  • $460.25/month

 

The BAS Table is available on DFAS website: