How much does E5 make with 20 years?

$4,421.70 per month in base pay ($53,060.40 per year) in 2026.

Does this include BAH and BAS?

No. Base pay only. BAH depends on location and dependents; BAS is a flat monthly food allowance.

How much does Sergeant (E-5) make with 20 years of service?

$4,421.70/mo

E5 base pay, 20 years of service, 2026 ($53,060.40/yr)

A Sergeant (E-5) with 20 years of service earns $4,421.70/month in base pay in 2026 ($53,060.40/year before allowances and taxes).

2026 E5 pay by years of service

Years	Monthly base pay
0	$3,342.90
2	$3,598.20
3	$3,775.80
4	$3,946.80
6	$4,110.00
8	$4,299.90
10	$4,395.30
12	$4,421.70
14	$4,421.70
16	$4,421.70
18	$4,421.70
20	$4,421.70 ←
22	$4,421.70
24	$4,421.70
26	$4,421.70
28	$4,421.70
30	$4,421.70

Plus allowances

On top of base pay: BAS (food) is $476.95/month, and BAH (housing) depends on duty station and dependents. Use the app to add BAH for your ZIP.

Run your own numbers in the VetPaycheck app →
Free military pay, BAH, retirement & VA disability calculator

Data: 2026 military pay tables (DoD), BAH rates, and VA compensation schedules as bundled in the VetPaycheck app. Last updated 2026-10-11. Figures are monthly gross before taxes. For planning only; verify with DFAS/VA.

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