What is the maximum W-5 pay in 2026?

The maximum base pay for an W-5 in 2026 is $9,736.80 per month ($116,841.60 per year). This is reached at 30+ years of service. Total compensation including BAH and BAS is significantly higher.

Yes, W-5 service members receive BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) in addition to base pay. BAH for an W-5 with dependents ranges from $1,806 to $7,338 per month depending on duty station location. BAH is a tax-free allowance. They also receive BAS (Basic Allowance for Subsistence) of $328.48 per month.

Updated February 2026

W-5 Pay 2026 — CW5

Q: How much does an W-5 make in 2026?

In 2026, an W-5 (CW5) earns between $8,096.40 and $9,736.80 per month in base pay, depending on years of service. This does not include BAH or BAS allowances, which can add $1,500 to $5,500+ per month depending on location and dependency status.

Complete 2026 W-5 (CW5) base pay table by years of service, plus BAH rates and total compensation breakdown. All rates include the 3.8% pay raise effective January 1, 2026.

Entry Pay (0 YOS)

$8,096.40/mo

$97,156.80/year

Max Pay

$9,736.80/mo

$116,841.60/year

BAH Range (w/ Dependents)

$1,806–$7,338

Across 338 locations

Officer BAS

$328.48/mo

Tax-free food allowance

W-5 Base Pay Table — 2026

Years of Service	Monthly Pay	Annual Pay
20	$8,096.40	$97,156.80
22	$8,502.90	$102,034.80
24	$8,911.80	$106,941.60
26	$9,324.30	$111,891.60
30	$9,736.80	$116,841.60

All amounts reflect the 3.8% pay raise effective January 1, 2026. Source: DFAS.

W-5 BAH Rates — 2026 (With Dependents)

BAH for an W-5 with dependents ranges from $1,806 to $7,338 per month, with a national average of approximately $3,050/mo across 338 locations.

Top 5 Highest BAH Locations

Top 5 Lowest BAH Locations

Total Compensation Example — W-5 at 24 Years

Base Pay (24 YOS)$8,911.80

BAH (National Average, w/ Dependents)$3,050

BAS (Officer)$328.48

Estimated Monthly Total$12,290.28

Estimated Annual Total$147,483.36

BAH and BAS are tax-free allowances. Actual total compensation varies by duty station and dependency status. Use the Military Pay Calculator for a personalized estimate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an W-5 make in 2026?

In 2026, an W-5 (CW5) earns between $8,096.40 and $9,736.80 per month in base pay, depending on years of service. Total compensation including BAH and BAS is significantly higher.

What is the maximum W-5 pay?

The maximum base pay for an W-5 in 2026 is $9,736.80/month ($116,841.60/year), reached at 30+ years of service.

Does an W-5 get BAH?

Yes. In addition to base pay, W-5 service members receive BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) ranging from $1,806 to $7,338/month with dependents, depending on duty station. They also receive BAS of $328.48/month. Both are tax-free.