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  1. Veteran’s Guide to Final Arrangements, Part 2: Memorial Items

    In addition to burial allowances, grave markers, and veterans’ cemetery interments, the families of deceased veterans are also eligible for a couple of memorial keepsake items: a burial flag and a memorial certificate signed by the President of the United States. (Read part 1 of the Final Arrangements series here)...
  2. Benefits to Military Families for International Adoption

    My husband and I are in the middle of our home study for an international adoption. It’s something we’ve always wanted to do, and yet weren’t sure we could in the military. We had so many questions: Would the moving and deployments hinder the process? Would we even qualify as...
  3. Military Retirement: A Blessing and a Curse

    I lost you, didn’t I? You said “this guy is completely insane! Half my pay for the rest of my life is a curse?” While I am prepared to concede your first point, gentle reader, allow me but a few paragraphs to elaborate on the second. Retirement from the military...
  4. GI Bill and Taxes….Not Exactly a Match Made in Heaven

    The Post-9/11 GI Bill is one of the best benefits out there today. The opportunity for a nearly “free” education is something you should take advantage of. But, like with many things the Post-9/11 GI Bill is not simple when it comes to taxes. Let me explain… GI Bill Alone First...
  5. What You Need To Know About The VA “Home Loan”

    One of the most substantial benefits offered to veterans upon completing their service to their country is the VA Loan Guaranty Home Loan.  It’s a program where the federal government “guarantees” your loan with a bank, lowering your interest payment, saving you a lot of money and making you eligible...
  6. Need Someone to Talk To? A Guide to Getting Help

    They used to call being married to a soldier “the toughest job in the Army.”  Now more than ever, it still is, and sometimes we need some support. As military family members, it is important to remember that although most of us do not deploy or face combat situations, we...
  7. A Guide to Easy Budgeting for Military Personnel

    Many people are under the misconception that military personnel have it made, financially. However, they live paycheck to paycheck just like everyone else does. They have the same bills and expenses as civilians, plus some. Low ranking military personnel have it the hardest because they aren’t paid as much as...
  8. How to Save at the Commissary

    Many people mistakenly believe that the commissary always has the lowest prices…while this isn’t always true it can offer savings.  Here are some things to know about shopping at the commissary to help you get the best deals: Surcharge While the commissary doesn’t charge tax, there is a surcharge added...
  9. 8 Military Family Benefits You May Not Know About

    When your spouse joins the military, there are all kinds of new things to learn. One of them is what benefits your family and you are entitled to. Here are a few you can expect to hear about and use – whether your spouse has a four year enlistment or...