Paygrade Math is run by a small team that builds pay calculators and writes about military money. We started it because the questions service members and their families ask most, "what will I actually take home?" and "what is this move really worth?", were answered either by bare government tables or by sites that wanted an email address or a loan application first.
What we do
We turn the official pay, allowance and VA compensation tables into answers you can use: a total pay figure for your rank and years, a page for every grade, VA ratings combined step by step, and the tax-free value of your allowances worked out from real tax brackets. Every calculator has a Calculate button, a written breakdown and a what-if table, and you never have to give us your contact details to see a result.
How we keep it accurate
Every number comes from a published official source, named on the page that uses it. When new rates are released, usually in December, we update the tables and calculators the same day and note the change on our update log. The how we calculate page explains each formula.
What we are not
We are not part of the Department of Defense, DFAS, the VA or any military branch, and we do not sell loans, insurance or claim services. The site is free and supported by advertising. Your Leave and Earnings Statement or VA decision letter is the final word on your pay.
Get in touch
Corrections and suggestions are always welcome at hello@paygrademath.com.