Some 30,000 single service members who live off base and pay
child support are likely to see a slight change in their
military pay – up or down – beginning in January. Through
Dec. 31, single members who pay child support get a BAH
differential. After Dec. 31, only members who live in
government quarters and pay child support will continue to
receive the BAH differential. Members who live off base and
pay child support will receive BAH at the “with dependents”
rate. Previously, they received BAH at the “without
dependents” rate, plus the BAH differential. The “with
dependents” rate varies widely based on pay grade and
location, so some affected service members will notice a
slight increase in their pay and some a slight decrease.
Those living in low-cost housing markets are the most likely
to notice a dip, said a Defense Department official.