Other pay: Imminent Danger/Hostile Fire Pay
When military personnel serve on land, aboard ship or in aircraft within an officially declared “imminent danger area,” they are entitled to be paid an extra $225 a month.
Troops do not have to be committed to combat to qualify for imminent danger pay; they just have to be on official duty in an officially designated area. The principal deputy undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness designates the areas. Members who unexpectedly come under hostile fire in a foreign country are entitled to hostile fire pay, which also is $225 a month. However, a member may not receive both imminent-danger pay and hostile-fire pay in the same month.
The pay was $150 until Congress temporarily increased it in April 2003 to better compensate those fighting in Iraq, though the increase applies to danger zones worldwide. The increase was made permanent beginning Jan. 1, 2005.
Imminent danger pay is tax-free if earned inside a designated combat zone or hazardous duty area.
Leave a Comment
Most Viewed Stories
- Marine scout snipers used Nazi SS logo
- Amos sorry for Marine use of Nazi SS logo
- Pentagon opens more military jobs to women
- Wife found guilty in Navy doc’s stabbing death
- Analysis: Navy may benefit in revamped military
- DoD to recommend new combat roles for women
- Navy probes site of 200-year-old shipwreck
- Congress OKs bill opening U.S. skies to drones
Contests and Promotions
Win Tactical Night Vision Goggles!
Enter to Win the Military Times Sweepstakes!
Click Here To Enter.
Enter our 2012 Red Carpet Contest!
Predict who will get the statues on Hollywood's big night and win a $200 Fandango Gift Card!
Click Here To Enter.
Free Stickers
Click here and we'll send you a FREE AFGHANISTAN, IRAQ, VIETNAM, or DESERT STORM sticker.
Marketplace
Mil-Mall
VALOR and VISION: Heroes * Leaders * InnovationThis commemorative Military Times magazine, tells, in pictures and short essays, the story of our past decade at war.
Military Discounts
Save on your purchases!
In honor of your military service, you can find regular and name brand products at a special discount.








