BAH

BAH stands for Basic Allowance for Housing. Military OneSource calls it additional pay meant to help service members pay for housing, based on housing costs in local civilian markets, when government quarters are not provided. It is meant to help, but it will not always cover everything.

For a rental owner, BAH is a fact about a service member's budget. It does not set your rent. Price your home from market rent and apply the same standards to every applicant, as the Fair Housing Act requires. Do not advertise a home as made for any group.

If you are a service member who owns a home and gets PCS orders, BAH at the new duty station may affect your own housing plans. You can compare the rent you could earn on your home with your costs at the new location. Our military PCS rental management page explains how owners on orders can plan.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change; check the linked official source or talk to a Maryland attorney.