Navy Officers Get Higher Nuclear Bonus

The Navy is increasing the annual Nuclear Officer Incentive Continuation Pay for some of its nuclear-qualified officers from $30,000 to $35,000.

Nuclear Officer Incentive Continuation Pay (COPAY) is a sum of money paid in annual installments to nuclear-qualified officers who agree to remain on active duty an additional set period beyond their existing service obligation. Normally, nuclear officers must agree to serve an additional 3,4, 5, 6, or 7 years to qualify for this continuation pay.

COPAY is paid each year for the length of a contract. Eligible officers serving on an existing COPAY agreement may re-negotiate a 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 year contract with a period that extends to, or beyond, an existing agreement to receive this new amount.

Previously only 1110 or 1120 officers serving in designated submarine nuclear propulsion billets could receive the $35,000 bonus. The new, higher bonus is available for all unrestricted line submarine officers O-6 or below with less than 24 years of service. The change is effective immediately.

Nuclear officers are also eligible for an accession bonus when first accepted into nuclear training, a career bonus upon successful completion of training. They may also receive an Annual Incentive Bonus after completing a minimum service qualification and while not receiving certain other special pays.

For more information see our Navy Officer Nuclear Career Bonus page.