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2026 rates are in effect. Pay and BAH updated January 1st. Tap the AI tab if you have questions about anything.
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Powered by Claude · USMC-focused · 2026 rates
Hey! I know your profile already. Ask me anything about your pay, benefits, healthcare, housing, or entitlements — I've got you.
Does BAH stop during deployment?
What's my BAH if I PCS to Okinawa?
What discounts can my spouse use?
How does TRICARE dental work?
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AI responses are a starting point only — always verify pay, benefits, and policy details with your command, S1, or official sources.
Conversations may be logged anonymously to improve this service.
Data reflects 2026 official rates. Always verify current figures with your command or at dfas.mil.
BAH and BAS are completely tax-free
Only base pay gets taxed. BAH (housing) and BAS (food) come out untouched, which makes your real compensation much higher than it looks on paper.
Your monthly breakdown
2026 rates
Full 2026 USMC pay table
Special & Incentive Pays
Hostile Fire / Combat Pay$225/mo — tax-free in combat zone
Airborne / Jump Pay$150–$225/mo depending on status
Sea Pay$50–$805/mo based on grade & time at sea
Diving Pay$150–$340/mo depending on qualification
Foreign Language Proficiency Pay$100–$1,000/mo based on language & level
SDAP (Staff Duty)$600–$2,700/mo for SSgt and above in key billets
Hazardous Duty Pay$150–$250/mo for certain MOS assignments
Family Separation Allowance (FSA)$250/mo when deployed away from dependents 30+ days
Clothing Allowance (enlisted)~$400–500/yr for uniform upkeep
TSP — Your Retirement Account
What it isThrift Savings Plan — federal 401(k) equivalent
BRS automatic contributionDoD contributes 1% of base pay automatically
Matching (after 2 years)DoD matches up to 4% of your contributions
2026 contribution limit$23,500/yr ($31,000 if in a combat zone)
Traditional vs RothTraditional: pre-tax. Roth: post-tax, tax-free in retirement
How to enroll / changeMarine OnLine (MOL) → MyPay → TSP
Understanding Your LES
Leave and Earnings StatementYour pay stub — available on MyPay at mypay.dfas.mil
EntitlementsEverything you're owed: base pay, BAH, BAS, special pays
DeductionsFederal tax, FICA, SGLI, TSP, allotments
SGLI (life insurance)$29/mo for $400,000 coverage — best deal in insurance
Mid-month vs end of monthPay splits 1st and 15th. Combat zone pay is tax-exempt.
Pay issuesContact your unit S1 / IPAC first, then DFAS: 1-888-332-7411
Combat zone = tax-free base pay
If you're deployed to a designated combat zone, your entire base pay becomes tax-free for that month — even if you were only there for one day. BAH and BAS are always tax-free regardless.
Good news: Active duty members pay $0 for TRICARE. Your coverage is automatic and free.
Pick your plan
TRICARE Prime
Best for most
Like an HMO. One primary doctor who refers you everywhere. Free at base clinic, tiny copay off-base.
TRICARE Select
Like a PPO. See any authorized doctor without a referral. More flexibility, slightly higher cost.
Direct Care
Base clinic only. Totally free, but you're limited to what's available at your installation.
TRICARE Overseas
For OCONUS assignments. Works at host-country facilities and overseas military clinics.
What you'll actually pay (2026)
TRICARE Prime · Active duty
Doctor visit (base clinic)Free
Doctor visit (off-base, in-network)Free
Specialist (with referral)Free
ER at baseFree
ER off-base$30
Therapy / mental healthFree
Prescriptions at base pharmacyFree
Mail-order prescriptions (generic)Free
Mail-order prescriptions (brand)$14 for 90 days
Annual out-of-pocket max$1,000
Dental and vision are separate
Sign up for FEDVIP for dental coverage. Base dental takes care of readiness stuff for free. Vision needs its own plan. Your S-1 can help with enrollment.
Tuition Assistance (TA)
Free college money you can use right now
Available now
How much per year$4,500
Per credit hour max$250
Works for undergrad and gradYes
Does it touch your GI Bill?Nope
Commitment after using it2 extra years of service
How to applyMarine OnLine (MOL)
Post-9/11 GI Bill
Save this for after you get out — it's your most powerful benefit
Tuition at a public in-state school100% covered
Private / out-of-state school cap$28,937 / yr
Monthly housing stipendE-5 w/ dep BAH rate
Books and suppliesUp to $1,000 / yr
Total time available36 months
Can you give it to your kids?Yes (4-yr commitment)
MyCAA for spouses
If you're O-1 to O-3, W-1 to W-2, or E-1 to E-5, your spouse can get up to $4,000 for education through MyCAA. Apply at MyCAA.com before they start any program.
Data reflects 2026 official rates. Always verify current figures with your command or at dfas.mil.
You keep what you don't spend
BAH is based on median rent in your area. If you find a place cheaper than your BAH rate, the leftover is yours to keep — tax-free. It's not a use-it-or-lose-it thing.
Your BAH rate
Based on your grade and duty station
How BAH Works
What BAH coversRent, renter's insurance, and basic utilities allowance
Rate is based onYour grade, dependent status, and duty station ZIP code
It's tax-freeBAH is never taxed — it doesn't count as income
Two tiers onlyWith dependents or without — more dependents don't increase it
Rate protectionIf BAH drops, your rate is frozen until it rises again
Living in barracksBAH is waived — housing is provided at no cost to you
On-Base vs Off-Base Housing
On-base (government quarters)BAH is signed over to the housing office — no out-of-pocket
Privatized housing (Lincoln, Balfour)They collect your BAH directly — clarify what's included
Off-base advantageKeep anything left over after rent — some families pocket $200–600/mo
Renter's insuranceRequired on most bases — USAA and NFCU offer military rates
Utilities on baseUsually included, but some privatized homes have usage limits
PCS & Moving
When BAH changesSwitches to new duty station rate on your report date
TLE — Temporary Lodging ExpenseUp to 10 days of temp housing covered at each end of a PCS move
MIHA (overseas)Move-in housing allowance — one-time payment for deposits abroad
Dual BAH (rare)If family stays behind during unaccompanied orders, you may get both rates
Book your movemove.mil — schedule HHG pickup at least 60 days out
Going overseas? It's called OHA instead
OCONUS stations use Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA) instead of BAH. OHA covers your actual rent up to a local cap, plus a utilities allowance and a move-in allowance (MIHA). Rates vary significantly by country — Okinawa and mainland Japan OHA rates are generally generous. Ask the AI tab for your specific location.
Everything a military spouse needs to know
Pay changes, deployment finances, community, career, and your own benefits — all in one place.
How BAH changes
This section is for military families. Discounts, BAH changes, and everything you need to know when life changes.
How BAH changes
During deployment
BAH does NOT stop when your Marine deploys
Common myth
BAH keeps coming during deploymentYes, full rate
Does it matter where spouse lives?Rate stays the same
Exception: unaccompanied ordersReduced rate applies
Family stays home of recordFull w/ dependents rate
During a PCS move
The part that trips everyone up
Rate while still at old baseOld base rate
Rate switches whenOn official reporting date
TLE (temp lodging covered)Up to 10 days
Per diem during travelPaid for whole family
Adding a new dependent
Baby, marriage, or adoption
BAH rate change kicks inDay of the event
Not end of month — immediatelyCorrect
Update DEERS within60 days
New baby TRICARE coverageAuto for first 60 days
Submit paperwork toYour S-1
PCS checklist — don't leave money on the table
Household goods shipment (HHG)
Full weight allowance paid by the government. Schedule at move.mil.
PPM / DITY move
Move yourself and get paid 95% of what it would've cost the government. Easy money.
Vehicle shipment
One vehicle shipped at government expense.
TLE — Temporary Lodging Expense
Up to 10 days of temp housing covered at both ends of your move.
Per diem for travel days
Everyone in your family counts. Don't forget to claim it.
Mileage reimbursement
Reimbursed at the IRS rate per mile driven.
Your benefits as a spouse
TRICARE PrimeFree healthcare coverage — enroll through DEERS
MyCAA ScholarshipUp to $4,000 for education if your Marine is O-1 to O-3, W-1 to W-2, or E-1 to E-5
Commissary & MCX accessShop tax-free on base — bring your dependent ID
MWR programsFitness classes, discounted tickets, trips, and events — open to families
Space-A travelFree flights on military aircraft when seats are available
Legal assistanceFree legal help for families at base JAG office — wills, POA, housing disputes
Military OneSourceFree counseling, financial coaching, and referrals — 1-800-342-9647
Community & support
Moving the Millie WayPCS planning and relocation support group
Military Wife and Mom CommunityGeneral support, deployment advice, daily mil-life
Career Military SpousesJobs, portable careers, remote work
Your unit FRG pageSearch your unit name + FRG on Facebook
USO Spouse ProgramsCoffee Connections, virtual events, community
Military Spouse Advocacy NetworkFree toolkits, webinars, finance, career, mental health
Hire Heroes USAFree career coaching and resume help
Mental health & deployment support
Military Crisis LineCall or text 988, press 1 — 24/7 for families too
Military OneSource CounselingUp to 12 free sessions · 1-800-342-9647
Red Cross Emergency MessagesReach a deployed Marine for family emergencies · 1-877-272-7337
FOCUS ProgramFree family resilience training — ask your FRO to connect you
Navy Marine Corps Relief SocietyEmergency financial assistance and interest-free loans
Your quick-reference guide to USMC structure
How units are organized, what every rank means, and the acronyms you'll hear constantly. Bookmark this tab.
Regiment
3,000 – 5,000 Marines
Led by a Colonel
Battalion
800 – 1,200 Marines
Led by a Lt Colonel
Company
180 – 200 Marines
Led by a Captain
Platoon
40 – 50 Marines
Led by a Lieutenant
Squad
13 Marines
Led by a Staff Sergeant
Fire Team
4 Marines
Led by a Corporal
Enlisted
E-1
Private
Brand new Marine, starting from scratch
E-2
Private First Class
Settling in, building the basics
E-3
Lance Corporal
First promotion, crossed rifles insignia
E-4
Corporal
First NCO rank — leads a fire team of 4
E-5
Sergeant
Leads a squad, backbone of the Corps
E-6
Staff Sergeant
Senior NCO, squad leader and mentor
E-7
Gunnery Sergeant
Technical expert, shapes junior Marines
E-8
Master Sgt / First Sgt
Senior company advisor or master of craft
E-9
SgtMaj / Master GySgt
Highest enlisted — sets the culture of the Corps
Warrant Officers
W-1
Warrant Officer 1
Technical specialist, newly commissioned
W-2
Chief Warrant Officer 2
Growing expertise in their specialty
W-3
Chief Warrant Officer 3
Recognized subject matter expert
W-4
Chief Warrant Officer 4
Senior technical authority
W-5
Chief Warrant Officer 5
Pinnacle of technical mastery
Officers
O-1
2nd Lieutenant
Newest officer — leads a platoon
O-2
1st Lieutenant
Building experience, platoon leader
O-3
Captain
Commands a company of ~180
O-4
Major
Staff officer, battalion advisor
O-5
Lt Colonel
Commands a battalion of 800–1,200
O-6
Colonel
Commands a regiment of 3,000–5,000
O-7
Brigadier General
One-star general, senior leadership
O-8
Major General
Two-star, commands a division
O-9
Lieutenant General
Three-star, commands a Marine Expeditionary Force
O-10
General
Four-star, Commandant of the Marine Corps
ASVAB
Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery — the entry test used for enlistment and MOS assignment
BAH
Basic Allowance for Housing — monthly tax-free housing payment
BAS
Basic Allowance for Subsistence — monthly food allowance
BCT
Basic Combat Training — entry-level training; USMC equivalent is Recruit Training (boot camp)
CAC
Common Access Card — your military ID and digital credential card
CO
Commanding Officer — the boss of the unit, with major authority over your Marine's daily life
COLA
Cost of Living Allowance — extra pay for high-cost areas, especially overseas assignments
CONUS
Continental United States — the 48 contiguous states, excluding Alaska, Hawaii, and overseas
DD214
Certificate of Release or Discharge — the document proving military service; guard it carefully
DEERS
Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System — must be enrolled to use any military benefits
EAS
End of Active Service — the date your Marine's enlistment contract expires
EGA
Eagle, Globe, and Anchor — the official emblem of the United States Marine Corps
FRG
Family Readiness Group — spouse and family community for your unit
GTC
Government Travel Card — the card used for official travel expenses; must be paid promptly
IOC
Infantry Officer Course — advanced training required for Marine infantry officers
JAG
Judge Advocate General — military lawyers who provide free legal assistance on base
LES
Leave and Earnings Statement — your Marine's monthly pay stub, available on myPay
MCX
Marine Corps Exchange — the on-base retail store, tax-free with negotiated pricing
MCRD
Marine Corps Recruit Depot — where enlisted Marines go for boot camp (San Diego or Parris Island)
MOL
Marine OnLine — internal admin portal for leave requests, Tuition Assistance, and records
MOS
Military Occupational Specialty — your Marine's job code and career field
MTF
Military Treatment Facility — the hospital or clinic on base for TRICARE Prime enrollees
NCO
Non-Commissioned Officer — enlisted leaders from Corporal (E-4) through Sergeant Major (E-9)
OCONUS
Outside the Continental United States — Hawaii, Alaska, and all overseas assignments
OCS
Officer Candidates School — the path to becoming a commissioned Marine officer
PCS
Permanent Change of Station — an official move to a new duty station
POA
Power of Attorney — legal authority for a spouse to act on a Marine's behalf during deployment
POV
Privately Owned Vehicle — your personal car; one may be shipped at government expense during PCS
PTAD
Permissive Temporary Additional Duty — authorized absence without pay, used for house-hunting trips
SCRA
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act — caps pre-service debt interest at 6% APR; call your lenders now
SRB
Selective Reenlistment Bonus — cash bonus for reenlisting in a high-demand MOS
TAD / TDY
Temporary Additional Duty — a short assignment away from home base; not a permanent PCS move
TRICARE
Military health insurance program covering active duty, retirees, and their families
UA
Unauthorized Absence — serious disciplinary offense that affects pay, rank, and career
VA
Department of Veterans Affairs — manages veteran benefits, healthcare, disability, and education
VGLI
Veterans' Group Life Insurance — life insurance coverage you can keep after leaving active service
XO
Executive Officer — second-in-command of a unit, directly below the CO
What Is a Deployment?
A deployment is when a Marine is assigned away from their home unit for an extended period, typically 6–9 months. It's different from training (short, local), TAD/TDY (temporary duty, usually weeks), or PCS (a permanent move to a new duty station). Deployment means your Marine is operationally away — often with limited communication.
What Is a MEU?
A Marine Expeditionary Unit is a self-contained force of ~2,200 Marines built around an infantry battalion, a helicopter squadron, and a logistics element. MEUs are the USMC's rapid-response force — they deploy on Navy ships and can respond to crises anywhere in the world within hours of getting the order. The 7-month float is the classic MEU deployment.
Is Every Deployment a MEU?
No. MEU (float) is one of several deployment types. Others include:
- UDP (Unit Deployment Program): typically 6 months to Okinawa, Japan, living on base
- OCONUS billets: individual orders to Korea, Bahrain, Europe, or elsewhere — often 12 months unaccompanied
- IA (Individual Augment): a Marine sent alone to support another unit or mission
- Combat deployments: to specific theaters, varying length
How Long Do Deployments Last?
- MEU float: ~7 months
- UDP to Okinawa: 6 months
- Unaccompanied OCONUS tours: 12 months (sometimes extendable)
- Combat deployments: historically 7–12 months depending on theater and unit
- Training evolutions (not true deployments): days to weeks
What's a "Float"?
Float is informal for a MEU deployment aboard Navy ships (an Amphibious Ready Group). Your Marine lives and works at sea, moving between locations as the mission requires. Communication is more limited than a land deployment — phone and internet access depends on the ship's schedule and EMCON status.
Deployment Lifecycle
- Pre-deployment: Update DEERS, set up a POA, ensure SGLI is current, brief your family on allotments and bill pay. Attend the pre-deployment brief — it covers key contacts and emergency procedures.
- During deployment: Stay on top of LES via myPay. FSA and HFP/IDP should appear automatically — verify with S1 if missing after 30 days.
- Homecoming & reintegration: Budget for an adjustment period — physically and financially. MCCS offers free reintegration workshops. Don't skip them.
Communication Basics
- EMCON: Emissions Control — your Marine may go silent without warning. It's operational, not personal.
- OPSEC: Don't post locations, unit movements, or return dates on social media. Ever.
- Approved contact methods: MWR phone lines, email (when available), Garmin inReach satellite messenger, and care packages via APO/FPO mail.
Family Readiness Resources
- FRO (Family Readiness Officer): Your first call for unit-specific info. Get their contact before deployment begins.
- Key Volunteer Network (KVN): Spouse-led support network embedded in your unit. Connects families to each other and to official resources.
- Marine Corps Family Services: Counseling, financial assistance, and emergency help available on most installations.
Pay & Benefits During Deployment
- Family Separation Allowance (FSA): $250/month when separated from dependents for 30+ days.
- Hostile Fire / Imminent Danger Pay (HFP/IDP): $225/month for qualifying combat zones.
- SCRA: Interest on pre-service debts (credit cards, auto loans) capped at 6% APR. Call your lenders and invoke it.
- Allotments: Set up automatic pay splits via myPay before deployment — don't leave your family manually managing transfers.
Emotional & Mental Health
- Military OneSource: Free counseling (up to 12 sessions) for service members and families. Available 24/7 by phone or online — no referral needed.
- DSTRESS Line: 1-877-476-7734 — Marines-specific, confidential, 24/7. Staffed by counselors who understand military culture.
- For families: Deployment is a marathon, not a sprint. Lean on the KVN, stay connected locally, and build a routine. You don't have to manage this alone.
What Is an MOS?
MOS stands for Military Occupational Specialty — it's the code that defines what your Marine does. Every enlisted Marine gets an MOS at the School of Infantry (SOI) or their MOS school after boot camp. Officers receive theirs after The Basic School (TBS). Your MOS drives your billet, your base assignment, your deployment schedule, and often your career trajectory. It can be changed, but usually only at specific career milestones or through a formal lateral move request.
How to Read an MOS Code
MOS codes are 4-digit numbers, sometimes followed by a letter. The first two digits indicate the occupational field; the last two narrow it to a specific specialty.
- 03xx — Infantry (0311 = Rifleman, 0331 = Machine Gunner, 0341 = Mortarman)
- 06xx — Communications
- 08xx — Field Artillery
- 18xx — Tank & Assault Amphibious (transitioning as the Corps modernizes)
- 26xx / 17xx — Cyber & Electronic Warfare
- 35xx — Motor Transport
- 68xx — Aviation (varies by airframe)
MOS Directory
01 — Manpower & Administration
0102Manpower Officer
0111Administrative Specialist
0149Personnel Officer
0149Equal Opportunity Advisor
0160Postal Officer
0161Postal Clerk
0171Manpower Information Systems Analyst
02 — Intelligence
0202Intelligence Officer
0203Ground Intelligence Officer
0204Counterintelligence/HUMINT Officer
0205Intelligence Operations & Fusion Warrant Officer
0206Signals Intelligence/EW Officer
0207Air Intelligence Officer
0210CI/HUMINT Operations Officer
0211Counterintelligence/HUMINT Specialist
0212Technical Counterintelligence Specialist
0231Intelligence Specialist
0241Imagery Analysis Specialist
0261Geospatial Intelligence Specialist
0291Intelligence Chief
03 — Infantry
0302Infantry Officer
0303Light Armored Reconnaissance Officer
0306Infantry Weapons Officer
0307Expeditionary Ground Reconnaissance Officer
0311Rifleman
0313Light Armored Reconnaissance Marine
0321Reconnaissance Marine
0331Machine Gunner
0341Mortarman
0352Antitank Missile Gunner
0363Light Armored Reconnaissance Unit Leader
0365Infantry Unit Leader
0369Infantry Operations Chief
0370Marine Raider Officer
0372Marine Raider
0393LAR Operations Chief
0399Infantry Chief
04 — Logistics
0402Logistics Officer
0405Aerial Delivery Officer
0407Personnel Retrieval & Processing Officer
0408Fatality Management Officer
0411Maintenance Management Specialist
0430Mobility Officer
0441Logistics Specialist
0451Airborne & Air Delivery Specialist
0471Personnel Retrieval & Processing Specialist
0491Logistics/Mobility Chief
05 — MAGTF Plans
0502Force Deployment Planning & Execution Officer
0505Operational Planner
0506Red Team Member
0507Strategic Planner
0508Strategy Advisor
0509Marine Corps Strategist
0510Information Staff Officer
0511MAGTF Planning Specialist
0520PSYOP Officer
0560Security Cooperation Planner
0570Advisor
0571Operational Advisor
0580Foreign Disclosure Officer/Representative
06 — Communications
0602Communications Officer
0603MAGTF Communications Planner
0605Cyber Network Operations Officer
0620Space & Propagation Engineering Officer
0621Transmissions System Operator
0623Troposcatter Transmissions System Operator
0627Satellite Transmissions System Operator
0628Tactical Transmission Systems Operator/Maintainer
0629Transmissions Chief
0630Network Engineering Officer
0631Network Administrator
0633Network Transport Technician
0639Network Chief
0640Strategic Electromagnetic Spectrum Officer
0648Electromagnetic Spectrum Management Chief
0670Data Systems Engineering Officer
0671Data Systems Administrator
0673Applications Developer
0679Data Systems Chief
0681Information Security Technician
0699Communications Chief
08 — Field Artillery
0802Field Artillery Officer
0803Target Acquisition Officer
0811Field Artillery Cannoneer
0814HIMARS Operator
0840Naval Surface Fire Support Planner
0842Field Artillery Radar Operator
0844Field Artillery Fire Control Marine
0847Field Artillery Sensor Support Marine
0848Field Artillery Operations Chief
0861Fire Support Marine
0869Artillery Unit Leader
0871Joint Fires & Effects Integrator
0873Joint Fires Observer
0875Joint Terminal Attack Controller Instructor
0877Weapons & Tactics Instructor
09 — Training
0911Drill Instructor
0913Marine Combat Instructor
0916Martial Arts Instructor
0917Martial Arts Instructor-Trainer
0918Water Safety/Survival Instructor
0919Range Officer / Force Fitness Instructor
0931Marksman Instructor
0932Small Arms Weapons Instructor
0933Marksmanship Coach
0941Winter Mountain Leader
0943Summer Mountain Leader
0951Formal School Instructor
0961SNCO Academy Faculty Advisor
0981MAGTF Enlisted Instructor
0987Exercise Controller
11 — Utilities
1101Utilities Officer
1141Electrician
1164Utilities Systems Technician
1169Utilities Chief
1171Water Support Technician
13 — Engineer, Construction, Facilities & Equipment
1302Combat Engineer Officer
1310Engineer Equipment Officer
1315Metal Worker
1330Facilities Management Officer
1341Engineer Equipment Mechanic
1342Small Craft Mechanic
1345Engineer Equipment Operator
1349Engineer Equipment Chief
1361Engineer Assistant
1371Combat Engineer
1390Expeditionary Fuels Officer
1391Expeditionary Fuels Technician
1392Petroleum Quality Assurance Specialist
17 — Cyberspace Operations
1702Cyberspace Warfare Officer
1704Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Planner
1705Cyberspace Warfare Development Officer
1706Maritime Space Officer
1707Influence Officer
1708Civil-Military Operations Planner
1709Information Cell Coordinator
1710Offensive Cyberspace Warfare Officer
1712Interactive On-Net Operator
1713Exploitation Analyst
1720Defensive Cyberspace Warfare Officer
1721Cyberspace Warfare Operator
1722Host Analyst
1723Network Analyst
1730Civil Affairs Officer
1732Civil Affairs Specialist
1751Influence Specialist
1760Maritime Space Operations Mission Commander
1762System Operator
1766Radio Frequency Operator
1795Influence Chief
1799Cyberspace Warfare Chief
18 — Assault Amphibious Vehicle
1803Assault Amphibian Officer
1833Assault Amphibious Vehicle Crewmember
1834Amphibious Combat Vehicle Crewmember
1868Assault Amphibious Master Gunner
21 — Ground Ordnance Maintenance
2102Ordnance Officer
2110Ordnance Vehicle Maintenance Officer
2111Small Arms Repairer/Technician
2112Precision Weapons Repairer/Technician
2120Ground Ordnance Maintenance Officer
2131Artillery Systems Technician
2141AAV/ACV Repairer/Technician
2143Amphibious Combat Vehicle Technician
2147LAV Repairer/Technician
2149Ordnance Vehicle Maintenance Chief
2161Machinist
2171Electro-Optical Ordnance Repairer
2181Ground Ordnance Weapons Chief
23 — Ammunition & EOD
2305Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer
2311Ammunition Technician
2336EOD Technician
2339Marine EOD Diver Officer
2339Marine EOD Diver
2340Ammunition Officer
26 — Signals Intelligence/Ground Electronic Warfare
2602Signals Intelligence/EW/Cyberspace Operations Officer
2621Communications Intelligence/EW Operator
2623Radio Reconnaissance Marine
2629SIGINT/EW Technician
2631Electronic Intelligence/EW Analyst
2641Cryptologic Language Analyst
2651ISR Systems Engineer
2659Intelligence Data & Software Engineer
2691Intelligence Data & Technology Chief
2699SIGINT/EW Chief
27 — Linguist
2712Arabic (Modern Standard)
2721Kurdish
2723Somali
2729Swahili
2733Cambodian
2741Japanese
2743Korean
2745Laotian
2749Tagalog
2754Vietnamese
2763French
2764German
2772Portuguese (Brazilian)
2775Spanish
2779Persian-Farsi
2780Persian-Afghan (Dari)
2781Urdu
2791Russian
2793Serbo-Croatian
2795Ukrainian
2799Hindi
28 — Data/Communications Maintenance
Merged into OccFld 06 in FY26 — legacy codes still in use
Merged into OccFld 06 in FY26 — legacy codes still in use
2811Ground Radio Repairer
2831Telephone Systems/PC Repairer
2841Ground Radar Repairer
2847Radar Technician
2862Electronics Maintenance Technician
30 — Supply
3002Supply Officer
3043Supply Administration & Operations Specialist
3051Warehouse Clerk
3052Packaging Specialist
3112Food Service Specialist
35 — Motor Transport
3502Motor Transport Officer
3521Automotive Organizational Mechanic
3522Automotive Intermediate Mechanic
3531Motor Vehicle Operator
3533Vehicle Recovery Operator
3537Motor Transport Operations Chief
44 — Legal Services
4402Judge Advocate
4421Legal Services Specialist
46 — Public Affairs
4602Public Affairs Officer
4611Combat Correspondent
4641Combat Videographer
48 — Recruiting & Retention
4802Recruiting Officer
4821Recruiter
4832Career Retention Specialist
55 — Music
5511Musician
5521Drum Major
57 — CBRN Defense
5702CBRN Officer
5711CBRN Specialist
5799CBRN Chief
58 — Military Police & Corrections
5803Military Police Officer
5811Military Police
5821Criminal Investigation Division Agent
5831Correctional Specialist
59 — Electronics Maintenance
5902Electronics Maintenance Officer
5952Aviation Communications Systems Technician
5974Calibration Technician
5979Electronics Maintenance Chief
60 — Aviation Logistics
6002Aviation Supply Officer
6019Aviation Maintenance Officer
61 — Fixed-Wing Aircraft
6112Fixed-Wing Aircraft Flight Engineer
6113Naval Aviator (Fixed-Wing)
6122Fixed-Wing Aircraft Mechanic F/A-18
6123Fixed-Wing Aircraft Mechanic AV-8B
6124Fixed-Wing Aircraft Mechanic KC-130
62 — Helicopter/Tiltrotor
6212Helicopter Crew Chief UH-1
6214Helicopter Crew Chief CH-46
6216Helicopter Crew Chief CH-53
6217Helicopter Crew Chief MV-22
6218Helicopter Crew Chief AH-1/AH-1Z
6230Helicopter Mechanic
6262Naval Aviator (Helicopter/Tiltrotor)
6269Aviation Maintenance Chief
63 — Organizational Aviation Maintenance
6316Aircraft Electrician
6322Aircraft Safety Equipment Mechanic
6332Hydraulic/Pneumatic Mechanic
6354Aircraft Ordnance Technician
6381Aviation Ordnance Specialist
65 — Aviation Ordnance
6511Aviation Ordnance Officer
6531Aviation Ordnanceman
6541Aviation Ordnance Systems Technician
66 — Aviation Supply
6611Aviation Supply Officer
6672Aviation Supply Specialist
68 — Aviation Ground Support
6812Aviation Ground Support Equipment Mechanic
6842Aircraft Rescue & Firefighting Specialist
70 — Airfield Services
7011Expeditionary Airfield Systems Technician
7041Aviation Operations Specialist
7051Airfield Management Specialist
72 — Air Control/Air Support/Anti-Air Warfare
7202Air Traffic Control Officer
7209Air Command & Control Officer
7212LAAD Gunner
7222Air Traffic Controller
7236Air Support Operations Operator
7251Air Intercept Controller
7257Air Traffic Control Technician
75 — Unmanned Aircraft Systems
7509UAS Officer
7532UAS Operator
80 — Judge Advocate
8002Military Judge
8020Judge Advocate
81 — Chaplain
8156Chaplain
86 — Healthcare
8601Medical Officer
8621Dental Officer
8671Physician Assistant
89 — Medical/Dental Support
8913Field Medical Service Technician (Corpsman)
99 — Senior Enlisted Leader
8999Sergeant Major/First Sergeant (E-8/E-9 billet designator)
What Your Marine's MOS Means for Your Life
- Deployment frequency: Infantry and aviation MOSs typically see the most time away. Some support MOSs deploy less often but can still have 6–9 month rotations.
- Base assignment: MOS largely determines where you'll be stationed. 03xx is tied to Pendleton, Lejeune, and Okinawa. Aviation to Miramar, Cherry Point, New River, or K-Bay.
- Work hours: Combat MOSs often have field ops, overnight exercises, and unpredictable schedules even when not deployed. Admin/logistics MOSs tend to keep more regular garrison hours.
- Career length: Some MOSs have better retention incentive bonuses (SRBs) and promotion rates than others. Research your Marine's MOS specifically for realistic long-term planning.
What Is a Billet?
A billet is simply a job assignment — a specific position your Marine fills within the Marine Corps. Every Marine is assigned to a billet at all times. The billet determines where they work, what they do day-to-day, and how frequently they deploy. Understanding billet type is one of the most useful things a military family can know.
What Is an A Billet?
An A Billet is an operational assignment — a position within a deployable unit like an infantry battalion, a MEU, a squadron, or a reconnaissance company. A Billets are the core of what the Marine Corps does: they deploy, they train constantly, and they have unpredictable schedules. Career-wise, A Billets are essential — especially for officers and SNCOs. For families, A Billet years are the hardest. Field exercises, work-ups, and deployments are the norm, not the exception.
What Is a B Billet?
A B Billet is a non-operational assignment — a position outside a deployable unit. Common B Billets include: Drill Instructor (DI) at MCRD San Diego or Parris Island, Recruiter (RS assignments across the country), Marine Corps Instructor of Military Science (ROTC programs at universities), and staff or administrative positions at bases and headquarters. B Billets typically run 2–3 years. Deployments are rare. Hours are more predictable. For families, B Billet tours are often the most stable stretch of a Marine's career — but they come with their own demands (DI school and recruiting duty are notoriously hard on families in different ways).
How Do Billets Rotate?
Marines cycle between A and B Billets throughout their career, typically alternating every 2–3 years as part of a managed career progression. The Marine Corps uses a system called the Career Management System (CMS) / Marine Online to manage assignments. Career-minded Marines — especially those pursuing promotion — need a mix of both. An officer who only holds B Billets won't promote; one who never takes a B Billet misses mandatory career milestones like DI or recruiting duty.
How to Know Which One Your Marine Is In
Check their unit. If they're assigned to an infantry battalion, a MEU, a squadron, a reconnaissance unit, or any unit with a deployment schedule — that's an A Billet. If they're at a recruiting station, a recruit depot, a ROTC program, a school, or a staff position at a major command — that's a B Billet. When in doubt, ask. It also helps to know their next assignment before a PCS move — B Billet incoming usually means relative stability ahead.
What Is a PCS?
PCS stands for Permanent Change of Station — the military's term for an official relocation to a new duty station. Unlike a TDY (temporary duty, weeks-long), a PCS is a permanent move where the Marine (and usually their family) relocates to a new base or installation. PCS moves happen on average every 2–3 years throughout a Marine's career. Over a 20-year career, a family might move 8–10 times.
How Orders Work
PCS orders are official documents that authorize and direct a Marine to report to a new duty station. Orders include the reporting date, the gaining unit, any special instructions, and entitlements (what the government will pay for). Orders are typically received 6–12 months before the move date, though this varies significantly. Once orders are issued, the clock starts — there are deadlines for housing applications, school enrollment, and moving logistics.
TMO vs. DITY (PPM) Moves
The government offers two ways to move your household goods. TMO (Traffic Management Office): the government hires a moving company, packs and ships everything, and delivers it to your new home. It's free to you but comes with risks — lost or damaged items, delayed deliveries, and lack of control. DITY/PPM (Do It Yourself / Personally Procured Move): you move yourself and the government pays you a percentage of what it would have cost them. Done well, families can profit — but it's a significant logistical undertaking. Many families do a hybrid: TMO for large items, DITY for valuables and essentials.
BAH During a PCS Move
BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) continues during a PCS move and is recalculated based on the new duty station's rates. There's often a gap period where your Marine may be at the new station before the family arrives — during this time they may receive BAH at the old rate or a temporary rate. Renters should time lease endings carefully. Homeowners face additional complexity (selling vs. renting out). The Finance office at the gaining installation can clarify exact entitlements.
What Families Should Do When Orders Drop
When orders arrive:
- Notify current landlord or list home for sale/rent immediately.
- Contact the gaining installation's housing office — on-base waitlists can be long.
- Research schools if you have children — enrollment timelines vary by state.
- Update DEERS, TRICARE, and any state-specific registrations.
- Contact the Family Readiness Officer (FRO) at the gaining unit — they can connect you with the spouse network before you even arrive.
- Start the TMO/DITY process through the current installation's transportation office.
The Emotional Reality of PCS
Moving every 2–3 years is one of the most consistent stressors in military family life. Careers get interrupted. Friendships reset. Kids change schools. Spouses restart job searches. It's real, and it compounds over time. What helps: building friendships within the military community (they understand the rhythm), having a portable career or remote work capability, treating each duty station as a chapter rather than a disruption, and giving yourself permission to grieve the good ones. Military spouse networks at each installation — FRG, Key Volunteers, base Facebook groups — exist specifically for this transition.
For military families with kids
Schools, healthcare for newborns, PCS with children, and everything that changes when your family grows.
PCS checklist — don't leave money on the table
Household goods (HHG)Full weight allowance paid by the government. Schedule at move.mil.
PPM / DITY moveMove yourself and get paid 95% of what it would've cost the government.
Vehicle shipmentOne vehicle shipped at government expense.
TLE — Temporary Lodging ExpenseUp to 10 days of temp housing covered at both ends of the move.
Per diem for travel daysEvery family member counts. Don't forget to claim it.
Mileage reimbursementReimbursed at the IRS rate per mile driven.
Adding a new dependent
BAH rate change kicks inDay of the event — not end of month
Update DEERS within60 days
New baby TRICARE coverageAuto for first 60 days — then must enroll
Submit paperwork toYour S-1
Marriage — update DEERSDo this first — benefits don't start until enrolled
Kids & healthcare (TRICARE)
Newborn coverageAutomatic for 60 days — must enroll in DEERS to continue
Well-child visitsFree under TRICARE Prime at base clinic
Dental for kidsEnroll in FEDVIP — not automatic, separate from TRICARE
Special needs (EFMP)Exceptional Family Member Program — mandatory enrollment, coordinates care across PCS moves
Mental health for kidsFree at base MTF · Military OneSource also offers family counseling
Schools near USMC bases
How it worksMost CONUS bases use local public schools. OCONUS (Okinawa, Iwakuni) use DoDEA — free, on-base, no language barrier.
Interstate Compact (MIC3)All 50 states protect military kids during mid-year transfers — grades and credits transfer
IEP / Special needsSchools must honor existing IEPs — EFMP coordinates support
School liaison officerFree help with enrollment, IEPs, and credits at every base — ask your unit
Camp PendletonOceanside USD · Vista USD · Capistrano USD (north gate) · SLO: (760) 725-9853
29 PalmsMorongo Unified School District · (760) 367-9191 · SLO: (760) 830-7954
QuanticoDoDEA on base (K–12) + Prince William County Schools · SLO: (703) 784-2333
Camp LejeuneDoDEA on base + Onslow County Schools · (910) 455-2211 · SLO: (910) 451-5835
MCAS MiramarSan Diego USD · (619) 725-8000 · SLO: (858) 577-1730
MCB HawaiiMokapu Elementary (DoDEA, on-base K–5) + Hawaii DOE · SLO: (808) 257-7794
OkinawaAll DoDEA — Bob Hope Primary, Amelia Earhart Intermediate, Kubasaki High · pac.dodea.edu
Resources for military kids
DoDEA School FinderFind all on-base schools worldwide
MIC3 Interstate CompactYour rights when transferring schools mid-year
Military Child Education CoalitionAdvocacy, transition resources, and school guides
MilKids Ed Facebook GroupSchool resources, IEPs, and military kid transitions
EFMPExceptional Family Member Program — for kids with special medical or educational needs · ask your S-1
Data reflects 2026 official rates. Always verify current figures with your command or at dfas.mil.
Start documenting injuries now, not later
VA disability is based on proving a service connection. Every injury, exposure, or medical issue you document while on active duty makes a future claim stronger. Don't wait until you're separating.
VA disability pay (2026)
Tax-free monthly payment based on your disability rating
10% rating$175.51 / mo
20% rating$346.95 / mo
30% rating$537.42 / mo
50% rating$1,102.04 / mo
70% rating$1,759.19 / mo
100% rating$3,831.30 / mo
PACT Act — burn pit exposure
If you were near burn pits or had toxic exposures, file a claim under the PACT Act. The burden of proof has flipped — the VA now has to prove you're NOT eligible. Always worth filing.
Your military ID is worth thousands a year
Between the commissary, exchange, insurance discounts, and partner deals, most families save $3,000–5,000 a year without thinking about it. Most require a CAC, military ID, or free ID.me verification.
On base — use these first
Commissary~30% below retail groceries. Use it every week.
MCX / ExchangeNo sales tax, prices negotiated below retail.
MWR ProgramsDiscounted theme park tickets, resorts, gear rentals, and trips.
Base GymFree for all active duty and families. Multiple locations per base.
MCX Package StoreTax-free beer, wine, and spirits. Prices consistently below retail.
Banking & Insurance
USAA Auto InsuranceUp to 30% off · 60% off if storing vehicle during deployment
USAA Renters / Homeowners15% off comprehensive · policies flex around PCS moves
GEICO Military DiscountUp to 15% off auto · 25% emergency deployment discount
Navy Federal Credit Union$50 bonus w/ new checking + direct deposit · great auto loan rates
TurboTax / H&R BlockFree federal tax filing for active duty — do not pay for this
SCRA Interest CapFederal law caps pre-service debt at 6% APR — call your lenders now
Tech & Electronics
Amazon PrimeFree membership (~$139 value) · verify at amazon.com/military
Apple Military Store~8% off Mac, iPad, and accessories · apple.com/us-hed
Dell Military Discount10–15% off laptops and PCs
Samsung Military Discount~30% off select Galaxy devices via SheerID
Microsoft Military Discount10% off Surface, Xbox, and accessories
T-Mobile Military PlanUp to 4 lines ~$35/line/mo · Magenta Military plan
Verizon Military Discount~25% off monthly plan · active duty and veterans
Spotify PremiumFree for active duty · verify via SheerID · spotify.com/military
Travel & Entertainment
Disney Parks$50–80/day off per ticket · up to 6 people · verify at gate with ID
National ParksFree America the Beautiful annual pass · pick up at any park entrance with CAC
United / Delta / AmericanFree checked bags · waived change fees on military orders
Space-A TravelFree flights on military aircraft when seats available · check AMC website
Marriott / Hilton / IHGMilitary rates — always book direct and ask at check-in
MWR ITT TicketsDiscounted tickets to theme parks, events, and attractions at your base MWR office
Home, Auto & Retail
Lowe's & Home Depot10% off in-store · verify with military ID or ID.me online
Chevy / GM Military Discount$500–1,500 off new vehicles · stackable with other incentives
Ford Military Appreciation$500 bonus cash on most new Ford vehicles
Liberty Mutual Military Connect10–12% off for active, reserve, and retired members
Best times to save
Military Appreciation MonthMay — widest discount window all year
Veterans Day (Nov 11)Free meals + dozens of retailer deals
Commissary case lot salesSpring & Fall — stock up big
Exchange tax-free weekendsVaries by state and base
MWR seasonal promotionsCheck your base MWR Facebook page
How to verify for most discounts
ID.meOne-time online verification · 200+ retailers · id.me
SheerIDUsed by Samsung, Spotify, and others · free to verify
In personCAC or military ID works at nearly every retailer
Spouse discountsUsually require DEERS enrollment — update DEERS first
Showing facilities for your selected base
Change your base below. Addresses and phone numbers are verified from official .mil sources. Hours change — always call ahead.
Keep these numbers saved
Most of these lines are available 24/7. Don't wait until you're in crisis to find them — save the ones relevant to you now.
Pay & Admin
DFAS MyPay (pay issues)1-888-332-7411
IPAC (your unit's pay office)Ask your S1 / admin
DEERS Enrollment1-800-538-9552
ID Card / RAPIDS1-800-477-8227
TSP / Retirement1-877-968-3778
Healthcare
TRICARE Beneficiary Line1-800-444-5445
TRICARE Nurse Advice Line1-800-874-2273 (24/7)
TRICARE Dental (MetLife)1-855-638-8371
TRICARE Pharmacy (Express Scripts)1-877-363-1303
Mental Health Crisis / Warmline1-877-927-8387 (Vet Center, 24/7)
Crisis & Support
Veterans / Military Crisis Line988, then press 1 (24/7)
Military OneSource1-800-342-9647 (24/7)
Domestic Abuse (SAPR)1-877-995-5247 (24/7)
Sexual Assault (SARC)1-877-995-5247 (24/7)
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline988 (24/7)
Legal & Benefits
Legal Assistance (JAG)Your base legal office
VA Benefits Hotline1-800-827-1000
VA Health Care1-877-222-8387
GI Bill / Education (VA)1-888-442-4551
SCRA / Legal Help1-800-342-9647
Family & Housing
Fleet & Family Support (FFSC)Your base FFSC office
BAH / Housing Allowance1-888-332-7411 (DFAS)
PCS / Moving (USTRANSCOM)move.mil or 1-800-462-2176
Red Cross Emergency Messages1-877-272-7337 (24/7)
MyCAA Spouse Scholarships1-800-342-9647
Recruiting & Career
Marine Corps Recruiting1-800-627-4637
Manpower & Reserve Affairs703-784-9310
MECEP / Officer ProgramsContact your base education center
Transition Assistance (TAP)Your base TAP office
Real-time alerts live on your base's official channels
Gate closures, training restrictions, weather alerts, and base news are posted in real time on official social media. These links go straight to your base's pages.
Real tips from real Marines
Crowdsourced knowledge from the community. Filter by duty station or category — or share something you wish someone had told you.
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Lifecycle Timeline
Track your Marine Corps career milestones — from enlistment to EAS and beyond.
Coming Soon
An interactive career timeline with key milestones, checklists, and reminders is in development.