The Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) is designed to compensate servicemembers who are stationed in high cost locations in the United States. It is a taxable allowance that is based on your regular military compensation and spendable income. The amount of COLA you are eligible to receive varies with your family status and your location. Servicemembers with dependants are paid a different rate than those without dependants.
Am I Eligible?
You may be eligible to receive COLA if:
- You are assigned to a high-cost area in the Continental United States.
- You are assigned to an unaccompanied tour of duty outside the continental United States and your primary dependent resides in a high cost area in the continental United States.
- Your primary dependant must reside in a high cost area in the continental United States due to your duty location or other circumstances.
