What is combat pay fafsa?

Combat pay is a type of pay received by members of the United States military who are engaged in active combat situations. This pay is intended to compensate military personnel for the risks and hardships associated with combat.

When it comes to filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), combat pay may or may not be included in a student's income. If the student or their parents receive combat pay, it may be excluded from their adjusted gross income (AGI), which is used to calculate their Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This exclusion can help the student qualify for more financial aid, as they may appear to have a lower income on paper.

It's important to note that combat pay is not the only type of military pay that may be excluded from income on the FAFSA. Other types of untaxed military pay include Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS).

It's recommended that students and their families consult with a financial aid expert or a military benefits counselor to ensure that they are properly reporting their income and taking advantage of all available benefits.