On this page you will find information about:
- How to find out what you can expect to earn working for the Armed Forces.
- Expenses that you can expect to have whilst serving.
- Where you will live whilst serving.
Joining the Armed Forces is an exciting time, but it's best if you prepare yourself financially to remove any money worries that may crop up later.
To begin with, make sure you have an accessible bank account and get any debts or extra spending under control; this will ensure that what you earn is yours and can be put to good use. Once you're set up with a bank account and manageable debts, you're ready to get started.
As a member of HM Armed Forces, or a family member of, you will be entitled to some in-service benefits. You can find out more about what you are eligible for on the Discover My Benefits website.
Find out more about the benefits of working in HM Armed Forces on the Discover My Benefits website.
What you can expect to earn
Once you've signed up to join the Armed Forces, your basic pay will depend on many factors including your pay scale, rank, length of service, or trade.
You will also get other benefits like enrolment into a pension scheme, opportunities to further your studies, eye tests, dental care, and more. Paying for these benefits can add up for those who do not receive them through their employment, so factor these savings into what you are earning.
Learn more about entry-level salaries and opportunities in the:
What you will have to pay for
There are allowances and expenses that can be claimed by all members of the Armed Forces. Again, this will depend on your role, rank, and many other individual circumstances.
Where you will live
Your eligibility to accommodation can vary depending on your circumstances. You may have to pay for your housing, or you may be given significant allowances. Generally, most people will live in Single Living Accommodation (SLA) upon joining, but this may vary depending on availability.
All regular serving personnel are eligible for subsidised Armed Forces Housing through the MOD. This could be Single Living Accommodation (SLA) or Service Family Accommodation (SFA).
The Tri-service Accommodation regulations cover all the housing options and how you can access them throughout your Service.
Learn more about housing options for serving personnel here on the RBL website.
Promotions and pay
With dedication and hard work, you may find yourself rising through the ranks. With higher ranks comes more responsibility and greater pay.
It is important you continue to manage your money efficiently, accessing the benefits and allowances available to you while paying off debts and saving for the future.
How the Royal British Legion can help
If you are worried about or think you may need help organising your finances during or after your service, our Benefits, Debt and Money Advice team (BDMA) may be able to help you.
To find out more about the support the RBL could offer you, contact us via
Telephone: 0808 802 8080
Telephone overseas: +44 (0)20 3376 8080
Calls are free
from UK landlines and main mobile networks
Email: [email protected]
