Thanks for watching this video everyone! Since filming this video I have promoted to Captain and I made a new video talking about my salary and budget as a Captain in the Air Force. th-cam.com/video/BqbkMM-dUw8/w-d-xo.html
Seriously, this is THE most informative video. Not only is the pay breakdown so helpful, the financial advice (retirement, budgeting, etc.) Is so IMPORTANT for people to understand. Doing service for this country in ways above and beyond! Thank you for taking the time to create this video.
For some years now trying to find out the REAL numbers behind wages and salaries this is by far the best piece of info I’ve seen. As someone wanting to be an officer as well this is great! Thank you very much!
This was a really informational video. I'm commissioning next month into the Army as a CRNA grad student and this helped a lot about what to expect financially. I'm also going to be vlogging my Army journey so it's great to see other military TH-camrs!
Fantastic! I am glad you got something from the video and have made the decision to serve! I subscribed! Be sure to subscribe back as I have more military videos coming soon.
Literally AMAZING video! You broke it down to make so much sense because when I looked on the government website I just saw we’d average $40-50K/year and was like oh no….thank you and please keep making videos!
I'll be commissioning out of AFROTC in a year and I love your channel! You explain things so clearly and at the perfect pace. Please keep making these!
This was so helpful! I will be starting ROTC this fall and this video really helped me get a better understanding of what my financial situation and income will be like after I graduate and become a second lieutenant. Definitely better than I previously thought because I wasn't aware of BAH and BAS. Thank you sir!
Wow, what a helpful video. I really appreciate all the info you took the time to explain. I will be commissioning as a second lieutenant in the active duty army in about 3 years and I was looking for a video like this to help get a better understanding of the pay and how to manage my monthly income. Thank You for making this video and thank you for your service!
As an active duty E-5 (6 years) I make $54,000 total including BAS and BAH. A Maj with 12 year's of experience makes $87,000 with Base pay alone. That didn't include the sign on bonus, Aviation incentive pay, BAS, or BAH, or any other incentive. Best place for you to be is deployed. Make all of your pay non-taxable during the deployment. Also if your a pilot, Boeing will pay up to $370k to fly the 747 and match a 401k up to 20%.
Randomly came across this and subscribed as you were wrapping it up without a second thought. I knew half way through I’d subscribe. Very real and genuine 👍🏽
Thank you so much you. You are so candid and truly admirable and inspirational praying you nothing but peace and success, thank you so much from one stranger to another .
Thanks JAKE for this video.. I learned more about military’s life. I am very respects to all the people who services for ours country..you are the best..
Thanks for the Video!! I commission next week into the USAF. Im an 13B, Air Battle Manager, so ill be heading down to Panama City Beach, Florida for 9 months of schooling.
Only if you are bored with your current life and have a strong desire to serve in the military. Serving 4-6 years in the military as an officer opens up interesting career choices if you then just want to immediately get out. But if you are just thinking in terms of $$$ in the short term, then joining doesn't make sense.
@@JakeBroe follow up question, do you know anyone who made it to OTS no prior service and did Reserves or NG? And also, did you find a job and location opening first before applying to OTS?
crazy big jump in pay from o-1 to o-2 and from o-2 to o-3 basically a 10k jump and then a 20k jump all in just 4 years; if u stay outta trouble u are bound to make o-3 and then comes the should I wait another 6 years to make o-4 or get out now and take a civilian job for ANOTHER 30k jump so now u can make over 100k a year as a 28-29-year-old? big decision esp since 20 years in is no longer a must w TSP
Keep them coming. You mentioned 20% down payment, I’m sure you are aware about the VA loans, that’s 0% down payment and usually has the best interest rate. I highly recommend this loan.
Problem with the VA loan is you have to pay an additional 2.15% on the back end of the loan. 2.15% multiplied by whatever amount over 30 years is a lot of money. I'd rather just have 20% down.
@@carlosbermudez7854 , If it is a 250,000 home, that's .025 x 250,000 = $6250, costing you 3% APR for 30 years. You are still financially better off having the home than renting, but putting no money down should not be a veteran's first option as it financially is not the best. Having 10% or 20% down saves a fortune over the life of the loan.
I would still count the Optional saving that is being put away based on your own free will to the “left over.” So your true “left over” is 4,466, not 3,988
The Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits are huge if you are going for a Master's degree at a private institution. I did a dual master's program in Chicago and my school participated in the Yellow Ribbon Program which basically covers the rest of the cost for a private school that the GI Bill doesn't normally cover. So I spent 3 yrs in grad school, finished with a Masters in Finance, and an MBA, paid nothing in tuition, and got E5 with dependents BAH (that's the standard across the board no matter what rank you ETS as) every month I was enrolled, at the Chicago COLA rate (which was a little over $2K/mo back in 2016). So in that 3 years, the government paid out about $175K worth of benefits, and I still have a few months left if I ever wanna take some additional classes. And it will pay for my CFA exam costs, if I ever get around to doing that hell.
Exactly! I made a video basically outlining what is the maximum benefit you can get from the GI Bill and it's an amazing benefit to veterans. th-cam.com/video/371oEeYP0hs/w-d-xo.html
Great info Sir. Any chance you could create a video for Reservist Officers? You think there isn't much about this for active duty, even more so for Reserve officers.
A bit of information for those that are in the private contract world, YOU CAN SHARE HOW MUCH YOU MAKE YOUR EMPLOYER HOWEVER CANNOT TELL YOU NOT TO SHARE THAT INFORMATION THAT IS ILLEGAL FOR THEM TO SUGGEST YOU NOT SHARE.
Hello from South Korea! Came across your videos because I'm interested in pursuing OCS. I was also an English teacher in Korea (though I'm doing work with the Army now as a civilian). Great videos, very helpful! Any tips for someone interested in heading into Behavioral Science (61B)? Much appreciated 😊
I think you could rank this video better. Check if there are any similar videos and emulate them. This is a very searchable topic and you should have More views. It’s a great video !
Believe me, I am doing everything I can. You can look at my page source. I've keyworded it, hastagged it, I wrote a description, I made a good thumbnail. This video has excellent viewer retention and engagement (of who has seen it). The algorithm is just completely ignoring me because I am a new channel with only 100 subscribers.
Thank you for all the great information. I just have a question about pay for 'specialisation'. For example, you might get extra pay for being an IT specialist, a Pilot or Intelligence officer (I am just guessing here...) but the question is if the pay is SIGNIFICANTLY higher because of a 'specialisation' or in reality, its just $100 or $150 extra a months? Thanks for your help.
I really L😍VE your content. It’s extremely professional, informative and educational. It’s really helping me, be smarter in my Army career. Thank You....[🖤]
Awesome video I plan on commissioning early next year I graduate December the only Dilemma I’m facing is how long I want to stay it’s been a dream of mine to become a police officer and then eventually go federal but if the pay is that well idk well that’s for the future me to decide
As an X enlisted and as a 1lt latter in life I can tell you that you should never get out and not sign up for the reserves. I could give you a long story but, I won't att. good luck.
I dont get those 4to 6 yrs pay increases. You really have to mess up not to be promoted after 2years. They can also not renew your contract. Of cousre things have changed since the 80s.
I’m doing Army OCS next year but this video was useful you seem like a laid back guy who can also get stuff done efficiently. Why are you planning on doing 10 years ? What’s the significance of 10?
I commissioned in the Air Force originally because I wanted to get a job with the state department. I originally planned to do the minimum commitment and then go for the state department. However, I learned that all time in service counts towards the retirement with the State Department. There is no downside to staying in longer. Promoting to Captain and Major in the Air Force at this point is automatic really, but I would need to make Lt Col to get to 20 years and retire. I'd rather just do 10 in the Air Force and 15 with the State Department and be fully retired at 55. That's just my plan, it could definitely change.
What are the logistical pros and cons of living on base as opposed to off base and receiving BAH? Specifically in terms of income, quality of life, and any other factors I’ve left unaccounted for.
Hey Jalyn! Pros: - 5 min drive to work - All utilities included (except cable and internet) - Usually a good size house with a yard and the private company maintains the house, no worries Cons: - They charge you your entire BAH at the dependent rate. If you aren't married, you still then are paying to live here. Living off base is always cheaper whether getting a starter home or renting.
Thanks Jake for such a detailed video of the actual numbers of what a military officer makes! Since you’re an investment and finance guy as well, would you think it would be financially wise for me to try and join the Air Force as an officer. Currently, I am 33 years old with a wife and 2 young children. I roughly make around $75,000 a year.
Hey Daniel! If you want to serve, then you would be making more money as an officer after 2 years. Don't do this job just for the pay and benefits, but the pay and benefits are incredibly good. Check out this video explaining them all. th-cam.com/video/EJDm5wVK8hI/w-d-xo.html
@@JakeBroe Yes I definitely would not be doing it for the pay and benefits alone. It has always been my dream to be an Air Force Officer but life circumstances have gotten in my way up to this point. I just want to make sure that my family is financially stable if I decide to make the leap into being an officer.
That's what $40,000 per year almost less than poverty or am I mistaken? Sheriffs IN the US of A make around $250,000 per year. Also it looks like the sign up salary for their military is going down every calendar year per quarter. For example beginning 2022 was around $50k to sign, then 2nd quarter went down to $25k and for 3rd is currently around $5,000 only to sign for War or wherever they go. This makes no sense to treat REAL officers that way there 💜💜
Any chance you can get in contact with doctors in the diff branches of the military, so we can get a sense of the entry rank as a doctor, as a board-certified doctors, etc.?
I’m 34 and have been considering joining the air guard. One of my roommates just finished basic and said I should consider going to OCS right off the bat. I have a career I really enjoy and don’t want to leave it. Is it possible to be a part-time officer in the guard or do you have to be full-time? Are you able to choose the location you serve in and could I keep my current career/job? Thanks in advance!
Hello sir, thank you for the video. I was surprised to hear that your background before being an officer is quite similar to mine (teaching in Korea and such). I also taught English in Korea for around 3 years, did my masters degree here and am currently still living in Korea. I am strongly considering doing an OTS packet soon since civilian life isn't really working out post-graduation and I've always considered joining the Air Force. Did you by any chance use any recommendation letters from prior managers at the schools you taught at in Korea? Also, did your experience teaching carry strongly as 'leadership' ability in the eyes of the board? I was thinking they could see it as leadership ability somewhat since you have to lead a classroom toward a learning objective. Also, I was wondering, were you living in Korea when you started contacting the officer recruiter and getting your packet together?
Great questions, Brad! I wanted to get a Masters, but did not want to pay full price for it. That's how I eventually got the idea to commission (to get the GI Bill). I did not get the idea actually until I left Korea and moved back to America. My dad was also in the Air Force, so it was something I always considered (I commissioned at age 32). Unfortunately all your letters of recommendation have to be from US citizens (as I was told by my recruiter). If you want to settle for using any American coworkers, that would be fine. Just write the letter for them what you want it to say and have them sign off on it. If I am being 100% honest, I think the letters of recommendation have the least amount of significance towards your package for being selected or not. Unless you have a letter from a sitting senator or a four-star general, they aren't going to impress anyone and are just a formality. Your transcripts for academic work and your AFOQT have more significance. And the most important component will be your in-person interview with the recruitment detachment commander. It is like an hour long interview and they will write a recommendation whether or not you would be a good fit or not. They will strat you (rank you 1-8) against the other applicants that went through your same recruiter for that board. Looking confident in that interview and selling your life accomplishments is crucial.
Question What if you find a place for rent off base but the landlord end up being horrible or something ? And how can u buy a house in active duty what if you buy a house and then get stationed somewhere else and never go back to the house u bought
If your landlord is terrible and in violation of your lease, you can talk to a JAG for free on base to see if you can break your lease. Additionally, anyone who buys a home and then has to move has to either sell the house or rent it out when they leave. It's a common problem in the military.
Hey, Jake I enjoyed your video! I just graduated college with a criminal justice degree. I am very interested in joining to be an officer. How high can I start coming in?
Hey Noah! You have to find the Air Force officer recruiter for your area and apply to Officer Training School. Check out my video on that topic: th-cam.com/video/KWs8bbBu9aU/w-d-xo.html
Hi Jake, could you say anything about trying to commission into the airforce in 2023? I tried reaching out to my recruiter and he basically said they aren't interested in anyone who doesn't have a background in engineering or coding, etc. Contrary to my experience for sure and contrary to your previous experience as an english teacher. Thanks for any info you might have
Great video! Quick question, do you know much about the air forces loan forgiveness? Or do you know of any good resources? I have found different things in different places. I will graduate physical therapy school soon, and I would like to join the Air Force. Also, thank you for your service!
The amount and ability for loan forgiveness honestly changes from year to year. You would need to talk with an official Air Force recruiter to know the amount and if you are eligible.
I have seen enlisted pay. And I would not enlist at age 32 with a college degree and 8 years worth of work experience. But would I enlist at 18 right out of high school? Sure.
@Jake Broe I’m currently living in Africa and i have a college degree but thinking of moving to US to attend the service academy and become an officer. So do you think i can achieve that
Unrelated to this video in specific, but I’m looking to maybe do rotc for the af. This career path is something my family hasn’t really done. I have no one to all to military-wise for the modern military besides my uncle who was a paratrooper. So sorry if I don’t make a lot of sense with anything I’m asking or saying because I don’t understand many codes. Anyways, as a 2nd lieutenant, are you required to live on-base? I’m interested in this career, but really would prefer to not be told where to live permanently. Also, what are the exact responsibilities of becoming an officer? I ask because I wanted to become an engineer and am planning on going to school for a mechanical engineering degree that I may use later. I have always wanted to work on cars, and am not upset by the fact that I won’t be working on cars for a while, but I am hoping I have enough free time to get into my car hobby until I retire and work on cars full time and blah blah I’ll sort that later. But with this said, is it possible to become an officer and become some sort of engineer? Or something along those lines? Thank you ahead of time, appreciate the help
Hey! 1) 2lts (all officers) can live off base, you won't be told where to live unless you deploy 2) Every officer's career field is different and might have specific degree requirement (engineering degree for engineers of course) 3) Working on cars can for sure be your hobby when you are in
@@JakeBroe awesome, that sounds great. Thank you for helping. I just have a few questions if you don’t mind because you’re really the only person responding to me quick enough. I think I want to do military policing and then leave the military after a while (or maybe stay if I really like it) and go into state policing or local policing. If I went through ROTC for the Air Force would I come out as an “officer” as in military police? Or is that just the title and rank I have to oversee the tasks I’m given? If so, how would I go about joining the military police? And would ROTC be the smart option then? Can you invest into your TSP retirement account once you leave the military and say join the state police force after you’ve done your required time in the military? Or are you only allowed to let your savings in the account grow after you leave? I had another question I think, but I can’t remember it. I’ll ask you again if you happen to reply to this message. Thank you again, I really appreciate your help
Hey man thank you so much for your video. I have my 4 year degree and am debating whether to enlist as an E4 or commission as an officer. The main reason why I’m joining the army is to get post 911 GI Bill towards graduate school, looking forward to medical school. Since med school is my ultimate goal, I don’t want to spend too much time in the army. I want to do 3 years max active duty. I know that 3 years active is enough to get 100% GI bill benefits for enlisted soldiers, is this the same for officers? Also could an officer do a 3 year active duty? I know it still comes with 5 years in the IRR, but that’s all good. Thank you again, finding information can be challenging at times. Diego B.
Hey Diego, it depends on what you apply for, but generally 4 years is the minimum you have to do as an officer or an enlisted person. Then you get the GI Bill and med school would be 100% free!
@@JakeBroe Nice! After doing more research, I decided to go in the Marines as an officer, God willing. You said you automatically promote to O2 at 2 years, is this at the end of the 2 year mark? So for the first two years you're an O1 making the same amount in the 1st and 2nd years?
@@JakeBroe Oh yeah...LOL....My bad!! I was wondering about your age when you got in as 2lt officer plus is a person too old if he/she is commisioning at the age of around 34/35?
@@crazyvideoholic9380 , I commissioned at age 32! So, no 34/35 is not too late if you are still physically and mentally fit enough to begin military service!
Hello Sir, thank you for your video. I have a huge question. I have a friend who is now a lieutenant officer in US army. He has 8years experience. And now he has mission and served in Iraq which is war zone 2020. He told me he is working on contract basis and he has been in iraq for 8 months and it will be ended soon. He told me he would get paid 4 million USD after retirement(he will retire soon). Is it possible??? He is now 29 years old and he had gone military academy.
The information you have given me does not seem correct. You can only retire after 20 years. Additionally, if he has 8 years experience, he should have promoted and is not a lieutenant anymore.
@@JakeBroe Ok, in this case, maybe it is not "retirement", he would resign then. But he used the wording of "retirement". Anyway, i want to know if the 4 million USD is realistic bonus or paycheck(i don't know the exact wording) if he served in many battle zone /war zone for 8 years. Thank you for your kind responses.
@@NicksEngineering , I don't know the details. He might already be out of the military and he is working as a private contractor in Iraq? That is the only thing that maybe is happening. Nobody can retire after 8 years in the military.
Hey Christiano! The pay that an O-1 is low, but that is only for 2 years (right after graduating college usually). It shoots up pretty fast after 3 years once they make Captain. Check out that video break down that I did. th-cam.com/video/BqbkMM-dUw8/w-d-xo.html
The private company that runs the housing units on your base will directly receive your full BAH (dependent rate for being married). You would only received the base pay of $3,188 plus your BAS ($254). So, $3,442 a month.
@@kenny_hernandez4176 , I think you should do it. It's a great job with great benefits. Officer Training School isn't that tough, and if you meet all the requirements, the AF needs nurses. As for living on base, everything except internet and cable is included. So you don't pay water, gas, electric, trash pick up bills/fees. People are generally satisfied with the administration and repair services from the private companies. The houses are usually big. I always live off base because I am not married and don't have kids or pets. Apartments are cheaper for me.
@@JakeBroe Thank you for lending me your time and knowledge! I have one last question, my wife is a accountant do you think it would be easy for her to find a job on base without being enlisted in the military?
It's not a yearly bonus, it is a monthly special duty pay in addition to their base pay. They can be offered bonuses as an incentive to stay in though once their service commitment is up.
Hey sir, I have a question pertaining to applying to OTS. I am currently active duty Air Force. I have been in for 3 years and 11 months and I just put Staff Sergeant on this month. I’m putting in a package next year, and I’m worried about not having “enough” awards. I have been airman of the month for my flight 2 times and a part of my flight obtaining team of the quarter a few times, but that is it. So my question is, since I don’t have a lot of awards, would this affect my chances of selection? I am fulfilling the role of NCOIC of my current shift, I am a Computer Science major, I have 2 certs, and a good educational backing but no “recognition” to validate it. Your thoughts?
Congrats on making Staff! Unfortunately, I am a non-prior who applied to go to OTS. For us, the process is a little different. The recruiter who vetted me and the detachment commander who interviewed me could only go off of and scrutinize my civilian life. Nobody wins quarterly awards in college, so it's hard to compare us to enlisted. Thankfully I had 6+ years of real world work experience and that distinguished me from other applicants. From what I've gathered from my observations of enlisted who transition to officer, you really need the blessing and support of your squadron to put in a successful package. It really is an added pressure on you, but if it is what you want and you know you can do the job, you must not get discouraged. The good thing about your situation is that you have time on your side. There is no rush to make it to OTS. There were prior enlisted in my class with up to 17 years prior enlisted experience. For many people there, commissioning had been a dream for them that they had been working towards for 4-8 years. I am not saying that has to be you. There were also SrA in my OTS class with under 3 years prior experience as well. You just have to work hard and be consistent. Submit award packages every quarter for everything that you are eligible for. Even if you don't win, leadership has to see your name and remind themselves of what you did the last 3 months. That stuff really does stick in people's mind over time.
Jake Broe Thank you so much for the swift response! I will do my best, and I will continue to show face and not let the awards get me down. I will put in for them, but I think capitalizing on a good personal statement & commander interview will serve me just as well. I’m also putting in for both rated & non-rated, so diversifying my options should certainly assist with selection. Thanks!
Yep, don't overlook studying for the AFOQT as well. A lot of people haven't done math since high school and it's an easy way for the the AF to stratify applicants. They will only let you take that test twice, and you are going to want to shoot to be in the top 50% to give yourself the best chance. Don't walk in to that test without having first prepared for it for at least 30+ hours of studying. It blindsides a lot of prior Es trying to put together a package.
Jake Broe I have actually been studying quite hard for the AFOQT and attempting to “prep” myself for the TBAS. I figure if my GPA & Test Scores are great, this will assist with selection. The Air Force is always in need of individuals with an excellent academic aptitude. Especially within the rated AFSC’s
Hey Jamil, you get a slightly higher housing allowance if married. Step 1 is to find a recruiter and talk to them. I do not know your education background, and working with a recruiter is the only way to get in.
Thanks for watching this video everyone! Since filming this video I have promoted to Captain and I made a new video talking about my salary and budget as a Captain in the Air Force. th-cam.com/video/BqbkMM-dUw8/w-d-xo.html
Jake Broe congrats capt!!🇺🇸
Yes sir Captain Congratulations sir!
I know Im kind of off topic but do anybody know a good website to stream newly released movies online?
@Finley Saint I would suggest Flixzone. Just search on google for it =)
@Finley Saint i use Flixzone. You can find it on google :)
Let me tell you. This was an AMAZING video
Well I like to hear that! Thanks, Maria!
Seriously, this is THE most informative video. Not only is the pay breakdown so helpful, the financial advice (retirement, budgeting, etc.) Is so IMPORTANT for people to understand. Doing service for this country in ways above and beyond! Thank you for taking the time to create this video.
For some years now trying to find out the REAL numbers behind wages and salaries this is by far the best piece of info I’ve seen. As someone wanting to be an officer as well this is great! Thank you very much!
You are very welcome Marin! Be sure to subscribe for more content on military finance coming soon!
Thank you for this video. I’m a ROTC cadet and actually learned some things I did not know.
Fantastic Andrew! Good luck in your studies!
This was a really informational video. I'm commissioning next month into the Army as a CRNA grad student and this helped a lot about what to expect financially. I'm also going to be vlogging my Army journey so it's great to see other military TH-camrs!
Fantastic! I am glad you got something from the video and have made the decision to serve! I subscribed! Be sure to subscribe back as I have more military videos coming soon.
Jake Broe absolutely! I subscribed back! Congrats on that 1k btw
Did u graduate as a crna?
OCS or ROTC?
Well you have a new sub! i wish more military members vlogged. Its very helpful that your doing so.
Literally AMAZING video! You broke it down to make so much sense because when I looked on the government website I just saw we’d average $40-50K/year and was like oh no….thank you and please keep making videos!
AFROTC here, thanks for the info. Gives me something to look forward to.
Awesome Jackson! You are almost there!
I'll be commissioning out of AFROTC in a year and I love your channel! You explain things so clearly and at the perfect pace. Please keep making these!
Awesome Jake! Congrats on your commission!
This was so helpful! I will be starting ROTC this fall and this video really helped me get a better understanding of what my financial situation and income will be like after I graduate and become a second lieutenant. Definitely better than I previously thought because I wasn't aware of BAH and BAS. Thank you sir!
You are very welcome Raina! Good luck in ROTC!
Man this is also a great story! Thanks for your devotion Jake!
Wow, what a helpful video. I really appreciate all the info you took the time to explain. I will be commissioning as a second lieutenant in the active duty army in about 3 years and I was looking for a video like this to help get a better understanding of the pay and how to manage my monthly income. Thank You for making this video and thank you for your service!
Thanks for your future service as well Rondolf! Best of luck!
As an active duty E-5 (6 years) I make $54,000 total including BAS and BAH. A Maj with 12 year's of experience makes $87,000 with Base pay alone. That didn't include the sign on bonus, Aviation incentive pay, BAS, or BAH, or any other incentive.
Best place for you to be is deployed. Make all of your pay non-taxable during the deployment.
Also if your a pilot, Boeing will pay up to $370k to fly the 747 and match a 401k up to 20%.
Randomly came across this and subscribed as you were wrapping it up without a second thought. I knew half way through I’d subscribe. Very real and genuine 👍🏽
Thanks so much j dean! Welcome to the channel, I am glad to have you!
Thank you so much you. You are so candid and truly admirable and inspirational praying you nothing but peace and success, thank you so much from one stranger to another .
This was truly a very good overview!! Thanks again for your service and will share with my son.
Thank you for your support K Fry!
This helped me so much! Gained a subscriber.
Welcome to the channel! Glad to have you!
Thanks JAKE for this video..
I learned more about military’s life.
I am very respects to all the people who services for ours country..you are the best..
Thanks Dung! I appreciate the support!
Congratulations sir and stay safe.
Thanks for the support Nicole! Cheers!
Don't forget about O-1E, O-2E and O-3E.
Haha, there are plenty of those running around!
Mustangs!!
Great Great video. I am so glad I sat through the whole video. :) Thank you for your service.
Thank you for your support, Ryan! I appreciate it!
Thanks for the Video!! I commission next week into the USAF. Im an 13B, Air Battle Manager, so ill be heading down to Panama City Beach, Florida for 9 months of schooling.
Congrats on commissioning Ck! Lucky you getting Florida, haha. I've been freezing my ass off for three years in North Dakota.
@Ck thirsty, I just finished my flight physical. Im going in as an ABM. Pretty excited. How was OTS?!
Super informative and helpful for those of us (fresh undergrads) considering the officer route. Cheers friend!
Thanks Tanner! Cheers!
Thanks for this video I been looking for O1 and O2 pay explanations since I'm attending USNA.
New sub!
Welcome to the channel SavvyJaylo!
Would you leave behind a $150k/year fully remote job to be an officer, this is my current mental quarrel
Only if you are bored with your current life and have a strong desire to serve in the military. Serving 4-6 years in the military as an officer opens up interesting career choices if you then just want to immediately get out. But if you are just thinking in terms of $$$ in the short term, then joining doesn't make sense.
@@JakeBroe follow up question, do you know anyone who made it to OTS no prior service and did Reserves or NG? And also, did you find a job and location opening first before applying to OTS?
Thank you for your service sir!
Awesome video! Appreciate all the information you provided.
You are very welcome Corina! Cheers!
crazy big jump in pay from o-1 to o-2 and from o-2 to o-3 basically a 10k jump and then a 20k jump all in just 4 years; if u stay outta trouble u are bound to make o-3 and then comes the should I wait another 6 years to make o-4 or get out now and take a civilian job for ANOTHER 30k jump so now u can make over 100k a year as a 28-29-year-old? big decision esp since 20 years in is no longer a must w TSP
my dad is in Santa Maria and works on VAFB very cool
This helped so so so much!! Thank you for being so open
You are very welcome Stacy! Be sure to subscribe, I'll be posting more military life content starting soon.
Keep them coming. You mentioned 20% down payment, I’m sure you are aware about the VA loans, that’s 0% down payment and usually has the best interest rate. I highly recommend this loan.
Problem with the VA loan is you have to pay an additional 2.15% on the back end of the loan. 2.15% multiplied by whatever amount over 30 years is a lot of money. I'd rather just have 20% down.
Jake Broe is there a link to this plz
@@carlosbermudez7854 www.bankrate.com/mortgage/va-loan/getting-va-loan/
@@carlosbermudez7854 , If it is a 250,000 home, that's .025 x 250,000 = $6250, costing you 3% APR for 30 years. You are still financially better off having the home than renting, but putting no money down should not be a veteran's first option as it financially is not the best. Having 10% or 20% down saves a fortune over the life of the loan.
Great stuff man. Thank you!
20 hour daily fast... a great way to reduce your monthly grocery bill.
And a good way to lose weight... seems to be a common problem with older service members.
Thank you Thai helped a lot, I’m in 9th grade and doing jrotc and going to do rotc to be a 2nd LT and I really really wanna be in the army
I would still count the Optional saving that is being put away based on your own free will to the “left over.” So your true “left over” is 4,466, not 3,988
For sure! People can slice and dice the numbers however they see fit for monthly costs and savings. Cheers!
The Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits are huge if you are going for a Master's degree at a private institution. I did a dual master's program in Chicago and my school participated in the Yellow Ribbon Program which basically covers the rest of the cost for a private school that the GI Bill doesn't normally cover. So I spent 3 yrs in grad school, finished with a Masters in Finance, and an MBA, paid nothing in tuition, and got E5 with dependents BAH (that's the standard across the board no matter what rank you ETS as) every month I was enrolled, at the Chicago COLA rate (which was a little over $2K/mo back in 2016). So in that 3 years, the government paid out about $175K worth of benefits, and I still have a few months left if I ever wanna take some additional classes. And it will pay for my CFA exam costs, if I ever get around to doing that hell.
Exactly! I made a video basically outlining what is the maximum benefit you can get from the GI Bill and it's an amazing benefit to veterans.
th-cam.com/video/371oEeYP0hs/w-d-xo.html
Awesome video, thank you.
You are very welcome Ethen! Cheers!
Great info Sir. Any chance you could create a video for Reservist Officers? You think there isn't much about this for active duty, even more so for Reserve officers.
Great video Jake!
A bit of information for those that are in the private contract world, YOU CAN SHARE HOW MUCH YOU MAKE YOUR EMPLOYER HOWEVER CANNOT TELL YOU NOT TO SHARE THAT INFORMATION THAT IS ILLEGAL FOR THEM TO SUGGEST YOU NOT SHARE.
There's actually a military pay calculator online. It's pretty comprehensive.
Hey Maxpower! I've used that calculator in other videos. It's great!
Hello from South Korea! Came across your videos because I'm interested in pursuing OCS. I was also an English teacher in Korea (though I'm doing work with the Army now as a civilian). Great videos, very helpful! Any tips for someone interested in heading into Behavioral Science (61B)? Much appreciated 😊
Hey Vanessa! I miss Korea dearly, i lived there for 6 years. I don't know much about 61B, but it sounds interesting. Best of luck!
Appreciate the information...
Thanks for watching Robert! Cheers!
Thanks for the video Jake. This was helpful.
You are welcome! Thanks for the like and comment!
I think you could rank this video better. Check if there are any similar videos and emulate them. This is a very searchable topic and you should have More views. It’s a great video !
Believe me, I am doing everything I can. You can look at my page source. I've keyworded it, hastagged it, I wrote a description, I made a good thumbnail. This video has excellent viewer retention and engagement (of who has seen it). The algorithm is just completely ignoring me because I am a new channel with only 100 subscribers.
I wish I had, when I had the opportunity!
Thank you for all the great information. I just have a question about pay for 'specialisation'. For example, you might get extra pay for being an IT specialist, a Pilot or Intelligence officer (I am just guessing here...) but the question is if the pay is SIGNIFICANTLY higher because of a 'specialisation' or in reality, its just $100 or $150 extra a months? Thanks for your help.
I really L😍VE your content. It’s extremely professional, informative and educational. It’s really helping me, be smarter in my Army career.
Thank You....[🖤]
Thanks so much 3B! I appreciate that! I have lots more great finance and investing content coming soon!
Thanks for this video. Very detailed
You are very welcome DAngelo! Be sure to subscribe!
Awesome video I plan on commissioning early next year I graduate December the only
Dilemma I’m facing is how long I want to stay it’s been a dream of mine to become a police officer and then eventually go federal but if the pay is that well idk well that’s for the future me to decide
For sure, you got at least 4 years to make the decision!
Very interesting Video!
As an X enlisted and as a 1lt latter in life I can tell you that you should never get out and not sign up for the reserves. I could give you a long story but, I won't att. good luck.
Lots of enlisted would kill to start with 38K as base pay.
I dont get those 4to 6 yrs pay increases. You really have to mess up not to be promoted after 2years. They can also not renew your contract. Of cousre things have changed since the 80s.
I’m doing Army OCS next year but this video was useful you seem like a laid back guy who can also get stuff done efficiently. Why are you planning on doing 10 years ? What’s the significance of 10?
I commissioned in the Air Force originally because I wanted to get a job with the state department. I originally planned to do the minimum commitment and then go for the state department. However, I learned that all time in service counts towards the retirement with the State Department. There is no downside to staying in longer. Promoting to Captain and Major in the Air Force at this point is automatic really, but I would need to make Lt Col to get to 20 years and retire. I'd rather just do 10 in the Air Force and 15 with the State Department and be fully retired at 55. That's just my plan, it could definitely change.
@@JakeBroe Do you mind if I ask what you're hoping to do in the state department? Very interesting career plan
What are the logistical pros and cons of living on base as opposed to off base and receiving BAH? Specifically in terms of income, quality of life, and any other factors I’ve left unaccounted for.
Hey Jalyn!
Pros:
- 5 min drive to work
- All utilities included (except cable and internet)
- Usually a good size house with a yard and the private company maintains the house, no worries
Cons:
- They charge you your entire BAH at the dependent rate. If you aren't married, you still then are paying to live here. Living off base is always cheaper whether getting a starter home or renting.
Super helpful!!!
You are very welcome Logan! Be sure to subscribe!
This makes me now want to join 😭
Do you have any tips or advice about being an Air Force Officer? I recently graduated with an engineering degree and I'm thinking about commissioning
Thanks Jake for such a detailed video of the actual numbers of what a military officer makes!
Since you’re an investment and finance guy as well, would you think it would be financially wise for me to try and join the Air Force as an officer. Currently, I am 33 years old with a wife and 2 young children. I roughly make around $75,000 a year.
Hey Daniel! If you want to serve, then you would be making more money as an officer after 2 years. Don't do this job just for the pay and benefits, but the pay and benefits are incredibly good. Check out this video explaining them all. th-cam.com/video/EJDm5wVK8hI/w-d-xo.html
@@JakeBroe Yes I definitely would not be doing it for the pay and benefits alone. It has always been my dream to be an Air Force Officer but life circumstances have gotten in my way up to this point. I just want to make sure that my family is financially stable if I decide to make the leap into being an officer.
@@danielsandefur8755 so did you end up doing it?
That's what $40,000 per year almost less than poverty or am I mistaken? Sheriffs IN the US of A make around $250,000 per year. Also it looks like the sign up salary for their military is going down every calendar year per quarter. For example beginning 2022 was around $50k to sign, then 2nd quarter went down to $25k and for 3rd is currently around $5,000 only to sign for War or wherever they go. This makes no sense to treat REAL officers that way there 💜💜
Any chance you can get in contact with doctors in the diff branches of the military, so we can get a sense of the entry rank as a doctor, as a board-certified doctors, etc.?
Great video. 100
Thanks Kenneth! Cheers!
Thanks
You are very welcome Diana! Cheers!
I’m 34 and have been considering joining the air guard. One of my roommates just finished basic and said I should consider going to OCS right off the bat. I have a career I really enjoy and don’t want to leave it. Is it possible to be a part-time officer in the guard or do you have to be full-time? Are you able to choose the location you serve in and could I keep my current career/job? Thanks in advance!
Hi Jake! Just out of curiosity, how much vacation time do you get as an O-3 after 4+ yrs? Best regards from the Swedish Air Force!
Hello sir, thank you for the video. I was surprised to hear that your background before being an officer is quite similar to mine (teaching in Korea and such). I also taught English in Korea for around 3 years, did my masters degree here and am currently still living in Korea. I am strongly considering doing an OTS packet soon since civilian life isn't really working out post-graduation and I've always considered joining the Air Force. Did you by any chance use any recommendation letters from prior managers at the schools you taught at in Korea? Also, did your experience teaching carry strongly as 'leadership' ability in the eyes of the board? I was thinking they could see it as leadership ability somewhat since you have to lead a classroom toward a learning objective.
Also, I was wondering, were you living in Korea when you started contacting the officer recruiter and getting your packet together?
Great questions, Brad! I wanted to get a Masters, but did not want to pay full price for it. That's how I eventually got the idea to commission (to get the GI Bill). I did not get the idea actually until I left Korea and moved back to America. My dad was also in the Air Force, so it was something I always considered (I commissioned at age 32).
Unfortunately all your letters of recommendation have to be from US citizens (as I was told by my recruiter). If you want to settle for using any American coworkers, that would be fine. Just write the letter for them what you want it to say and have them sign off on it. If I am being 100% honest, I think the letters of recommendation have the least amount of significance towards your package for being selected or not. Unless you have a letter from a sitting senator or a four-star general, they aren't going to impress anyone and are just a formality.
Your transcripts for academic work and your AFOQT have more significance. And the most important component will be your in-person interview with the recruitment detachment commander. It is like an hour long interview and they will write a recommendation whether or not you would be a good fit or not. They will strat you (rank you 1-8) against the other applicants that went through your same recruiter for that board. Looking confident in that interview and selling your life accomplishments is crucial.
Question
What if you find a place for rent off base but the landlord end up being horrible or something ? And how can u buy a house in active duty what if you buy a house and then get stationed somewhere else and never go back to the house u bought
If your landlord is terrible and in violation of your lease, you can talk to a JAG for free on base to see if you can break your lease. Additionally, anyone who buys a home and then has to move has to either sell the house or rent it out when they leave. It's a common problem in the military.
Hey, Jake I enjoyed your video! I just graduated college with a criminal justice degree. I am very interested in joining to be an officer. How high can I start coming in?
Hey Noah! You have to find the Air Force officer recruiter for your area and apply to Officer Training School. Check out my video on that topic: th-cam.com/video/KWs8bbBu9aU/w-d-xo.html
You pay State Taxes...
They don't teach us about taxes at OTS. I've changed to Wyoming and won't be paying anymore.
i had a friend like this this is true, now i understand him why?
Sure?
hi ,so he can afford to buy a house
how much he received if pay grade 0-1 rank 1st L
Hi Jake, could you say anything about trying to commission into the airforce in 2023? I tried reaching out to my recruiter and he basically said they aren't interested in anyone who doesn't have a background in engineering or coding, etc. Contrary to my experience for sure and contrary to your previous experience as an english teacher. Thanks for any info you might have
Can you use the VA loan while active duty ?
고맙습니다~
You are very welcome! Cheers Kirin!
my dream to go to Canada or America but I'm confused 😕 who is better
Great video! Quick question, do you know much about the air forces loan forgiveness? Or do you know of any good resources? I have found different things in different places. I will graduate physical therapy school soon, and I would like to join the Air Force. Also, thank you for your service!
The amount and ability for loan forgiveness honestly changes from year to year. You would need to talk with an official Air Force recruiter to know the amount and if you are eligible.
Jake Broe thank you for the information. Best of luck to you!
wow, thank you for a great video. do you have to pay your federal or state tax if your duty station is south Korea??
Yes, you still have to pay federal income taxes in America (but not in Korea) and if you are a resident of a state, you still pay state taxes.
$38,246 a year dude have you not seen enlisted pay!!!!!!!!
I have seen enlisted pay. And I would not enlist at age 32 with a college degree and 8 years worth of work experience. But would I enlist at 18 right out of high school? Sure.
what does a infantry officer in the marine corps start at
Hey Gabriel! The exact same pay as any other 0-1 in any branch in the military! Time in service and rank determine pay, not job or branch.
@@JakeBroe amazing! Thank you!
@Jake Broe
I’m currently living in Africa and i have a college degree but thinking of moving to US to attend the service academy and become an officer. So do you think i can achieve that
Unrelated to this video in specific, but I’m looking to maybe do rotc for the af. This career path is something my family hasn’t really done. I have no one to all to military-wise for the modern military besides my uncle who was a paratrooper. So sorry if I don’t make a lot of sense with anything I’m asking or saying because I don’t understand many codes. Anyways, as a 2nd lieutenant, are you required to live on-base? I’m interested in this career, but really would prefer to not be told where to live permanently. Also, what are the exact responsibilities of becoming an officer? I ask because I wanted to become an engineer and am planning on going to school for a mechanical engineering degree that I may use later. I have always wanted to work on cars, and am not upset by the fact that I won’t be working on cars for a while, but I am hoping I have enough free time to get into my car hobby until I retire and work on cars full time and blah blah I’ll sort that later. But with this said, is it possible to become an officer and become some sort of engineer? Or something along those lines? Thank you ahead of time, appreciate the help
Hey!
1) 2lts (all officers) can live off base, you won't be told where to live unless you deploy
2) Every officer's career field is different and might have specific degree requirement (engineering degree for engineers of course)
3) Working on cars can for sure be your hobby when you are in
@@JakeBroe awesome, that sounds great. Thank you for helping. I just have a few questions if you don’t mind because you’re really the only person responding to me quick enough.
I think I want to do military policing and then leave the military after a while (or maybe stay if I really like it) and go into state policing or local policing. If I went through ROTC for the Air Force would I come out as an “officer” as in military police? Or is that just the title and rank I have to oversee the tasks I’m given? If so, how would I go about joining the military police? And would ROTC be the smart option then?
Can you invest into your TSP retirement account once you leave the military and say join the state police force after you’ve done your required time in the military? Or are you only allowed to let your savings in the account grow after you leave?
I had another question I think, but I can’t remember it. I’ll ask you again if you happen to reply to this message. Thank you again, I really appreciate your help
Hey man thank you so much for your video. I have my 4 year degree and am debating whether to enlist as an E4 or commission as an officer. The main reason why I’m joining the army is to get post 911 GI Bill towards graduate school, looking forward to medical school.
Since med school is my ultimate goal, I don’t want to spend too much time in the army. I want to do 3 years max active duty. I know that 3 years active is enough to get 100% GI bill benefits for enlisted soldiers, is this the same for officers?
Also could an officer do a 3 year active duty? I know it still comes with 5 years in the IRR, but that’s all good.
Thank you again, finding information can be challenging at times.
Diego B.
Hey Diego, it depends on what you apply for, but generally 4 years is the minimum you have to do as an officer or an enlisted person. Then you get the GI Bill and med school would be 100% free!
@@JakeBroe Nice! After doing more research, I decided to go in the Marines as an officer, God willing. You said you automatically promote to O2 at 2 years, is this at the end of the 2 year mark? So for the first two years you're an O1 making the same amount in the 1st and 2nd years?
@@Obamnaz hows it going now?
What was your when you commissioned as 2lt officer?
I think you missed a word there?
@@JakeBroe Oh yeah...LOL....My bad!! I was wondering about your age when you got in as 2lt officer plus is a person too old if he/she is commisioning at the age of around 34/35?
@@crazyvideoholic9380 , I commissioned at age 32! So, no 34/35 is not too late if you are still physically and mentally fit enough to begin military service!
@@JakeBroe Well, thank you...that motivated me. Cheers!!
How do i an E2 make more than an officer🤨
Hey! That is what my video upload today is about. Cheers!
th-cam.com/video/U_ymYS7l6W0/w-d-xo.html
Yedlord
Jake what degree should I get? I know stem is the best but what kind of stem?
Any kind of STEM is good. But if you want me to say a #1, then I would say anything engineering related.
can i ask is that you mention final pay 2660 per year or per month
per month
Hello Sir, thank you for your video. I have a huge question. I have a friend who is now a lieutenant officer in US army. He has 8years experience. And now he has mission and served in Iraq which is war zone 2020. He told me he is working on contract basis and he has been in iraq for 8 months and it will be ended soon. He told me he would get paid 4 million USD after retirement(he will retire soon). Is it possible??? He is now 29 years old and he had gone military academy.
The information you have given me does not seem correct. You can only retire after 20 years. Additionally, if he has 8 years experience, he should have promoted and is not a lieutenant anymore.
@@JakeBroe Ok, in this case, maybe it is not "retirement", he would resign then. But he used the wording of "retirement". Anyway, i want to know if the 4 million USD is realistic bonus or paycheck(i don't know the exact wording) if he served in many battle zone /war zone for 8 years. Thank you for your kind responses.
@@NicksEngineering , I don't know the details. He might already be out of the military and he is working as a private contractor in Iraq? That is the only thing that maybe is happening. Nobody can retire after 8 years in the military.
Hi, why a O1 makes much less than GL-9 like Border Patrol agent?
Hey Christiano! The pay that an O-1 is low, but that is only for 2 years (right after graduating college usually). It shoots up pretty fast after 3 years once they make Captain. Check out that video break down that I did. th-cam.com/video/BqbkMM-dUw8/w-d-xo.html
Does TSP match everything after the 2nd year or they only match 5%?
Hey Suppork! Maybe that depends on your agency. In the military, if you are in the blended retirement system, they will match up to 5% of your check.
@@JakeBroe go it, thanks. I just have no clue, I'm planning on joining the Air Force or the Army in about a year after I finish my Bachelor.
Hey I have a question! What if I'm a officer O-1, have a wife and we decide to live on base, how much would I receive per month after taxes?
The private company that runs the housing units on your base will directly receive your full BAH (dependent rate for being married). You would only received the base pay of $3,188 plus your BAS ($254). So, $3,442 a month.
@@JakeBroe thanks 👍
@@JakeBroe Im a nurse thinking about joining the airforce, do you have any recommendations?
P.s- what items are included when living on base?
@@kenny_hernandez4176 , I think you should do it. It's a great job with great benefits. Officer Training School isn't that tough, and if you meet all the requirements, the AF needs nurses.
As for living on base, everything except internet and cable is included. So you don't pay water, gas, electric, trash pick up bills/fees. People are generally satisfied with the administration and repair services from the private companies. The houses are usually big.
I always live off base because I am not married and don't have kids or pets. Apartments are cheaper for me.
@@JakeBroe Thank you for lending me your time and knowledge! I have one last question, my wife is a accountant do you think it would be easy for her to find a job on base without being enlisted in the military?
Do pilots in the Air Force receive a yearly bonus in addition to their salary?
It's not a yearly bonus, it is a monthly special duty pay in addition to their base pay. They can be offered bonuses as an incentive to stay in though once their service commitment is up.
Jake Broe thank you for the response! I appreciate it!
Hey sir, I have a question pertaining to applying to OTS. I am currently active duty Air Force. I have been in for 3 years and 11 months and I just put Staff Sergeant on this month. I’m putting in a package next year, and I’m worried about not having “enough” awards. I have been airman of the month for my flight 2 times and a part of my flight obtaining team of the quarter a few times, but that is it. So my question is, since I don’t have a lot of awards, would this affect my chances of selection? I am fulfilling the role of NCOIC of my current shift, I am a Computer Science major, I have 2 certs, and a good educational backing but no “recognition” to validate it. Your thoughts?
Congrats on making Staff! Unfortunately, I am a non-prior who applied to go to OTS. For us, the process is a little different. The recruiter who vetted me and the detachment commander who interviewed me could only go off of and scrutinize my civilian life. Nobody wins quarterly awards in college, so it's hard to compare us to enlisted. Thankfully I had 6+ years of real world work experience and that distinguished me from other applicants.
From what I've gathered from my observations of enlisted who transition to officer, you really need the blessing and support of your squadron to put in a successful package. It really is an added pressure on you, but if it is what you want and you know you can do the job, you must not get discouraged. The good thing about your situation is that you have time on your side. There is no rush to make it to OTS. There were prior enlisted in my class with up to 17 years prior enlisted experience. For many people there, commissioning had been a dream for them that they had been working towards for 4-8 years.
I am not saying that has to be you. There were also SrA in my OTS class with under 3 years prior experience as well. You just have to work hard and be consistent. Submit award packages every quarter for everything that you are eligible for. Even if you don't win, leadership has to see your name and remind themselves of what you did the last 3 months. That stuff really does stick in people's mind over time.
Jake Broe Thank you so much for the swift response! I will do my best, and I will continue to show face and not let the awards get me down. I will put in for them, but I think capitalizing on a good personal statement & commander interview will serve me just as well. I’m also putting in for both rated & non-rated, so diversifying my options should certainly assist with selection. Thanks!
Yep, don't overlook studying for the AFOQT as well. A lot of people haven't done math since high school and it's an easy way for the the AF to stratify applicants. They will only let you take that test twice, and you are going to want to shoot to be in the top 50% to give yourself the best chance. Don't walk in to that test without having first prepared for it for at least 30+ hours of studying. It blindsides a lot of prior Es trying to put together a package.
Jake Broe I have actually been studying quite hard for the AFOQT and attempting to “prep” myself for the TBAS. I figure if my GPA & Test Scores are great, this will assist with selection. The Air Force is always in need of individuals with an excellent academic aptitude. Especially within the rated AFSC’s
@@SWE_JDUB , awesome! Let me know if I can help you with any other questions you might have in the process.
5:19
Doesn’t BAH cover housing expenses?
Generally, yes. You housing costs (rent) should be less than the given BAH in an area.
Jake Broe oh okay. If it exceeds it, would you pretty much just pay the difference?
Also, there are bases that take ALL of your BAH for living on base.
LMAO he looks and sounds very Air Force :)
Sir we have NDA in India
Commissioned or WERE commissioned?
Hey Thomas! You can say either, but I prefer "I commissioned through Officer Training School."
Wrong voice.
damn 8 years as an officer destroy a 20 year SGM lol
Cheers William!
Yuh
Are you fluent in Korean, having lived there?
Fluent is pretty difficult to achieve. But I had enough of a vocabulary where if you asked me anything, I could answer.
How about if im an associate degree can i become an officer? Im planning to join at 2021 im 32 yrs old. Also im married whats my extra benefits
Hey Jamil, you get a slightly higher housing allowance if married. Step 1 is to find a recruiter and talk to them. I do not know your education background, and working with a recruiter is the only way to get in.