Starting level and typical ranges
These ranges use the starting level alone, before any of the facts listed below, for someone with no criminal record unless the column says otherwise. Most real cases add levels.
| Starting point | Level | Trial | Guilty plea | Plea + zero-point | Category IV, plea |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| What was broken into: A home or other residence | 17 | 24–30 months | 15–21 months | 10–16 months | 27–33 months |
| What was broken into: A building that is not a residence | 12 | 10–16 months | 6–12 months | 0–6 months | 15–21 months |
What changes the sentence
Each of these facts moves the offense level under §2B2.1. Adjustments that apply to every offense, such as role in the offense, obstruction, a guilty plea and criminal history, come after these.
| Fact | Effect | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Did it involve more than minimal planning: Yes | +2 | §2B2.1(b)(1) |
| Loss: more than $5,000, rising in steps | +1 to +8 | §2B2.1(b)(2) |
| Was a gun, destructive device or drugs taken, or was taking one a goal: Yes | +1 | §2B2.1(b)(3) |
| Was a dangerous weapon, including a gun, possessed: Yes | +2 | §2B2.1(b)(4) |
Important details
- The calculator does not apply mandatory minimum sentences set by statute for this offense. If the statute of conviction requires one and it is higher than the range shown, the minimum controls; check the statute or ask a lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the base offense level for burglary?
The guideline for burglary is §2B2.1 of the federal Sentencing Guidelines. Before any adjustments, its starting level depends on the facts: from level 12 to level 17. The table on this page lists each starting point.
What is the guideline range for burglary with no criminal history points and a guilty plea?
Using the first starting point in the table on this page (level 17) alone, a person with no criminal history points who pleads guilty scores 10–16 months (10 months to 1 year, 4 months), including the 2-level zero-point reduction. The facts listed under “What changes the sentence” can add levels, and the judge can sentence outside the range.
Is probation possible for burglary?
Only in part. At the first starting point in the table with a guilty plea and the zero-point reduction the range is in Zone C: at least half of the minimum must be served in prison, and the rest can be home detention or community confinement.
Is the calculator accurate for burglary?
It follows §2B2.1 of the Guidelines Manual effective November 1, 2025. It passed 5 review rounds, each comparing every number, rule and label with the manual text, and its last round found nothing to correct. Those reviews were done with AI tools, not by lawyers, and it has not yet been reviewed by an attorney, so mistakes are possible. The guidelines are advisory, and a lawyer who knows the case can tell you what actually applies.