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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...
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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...
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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...
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3 Things You Should Know About the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act

The Military Spouse Residency Relief Act of 2009 (MSRRA) is now law. Unlike some laws (gravity, for instance), MSRRA is not necessarily very easy to understand. Hopefully most states have already gone through their “growing pains” in adapting to and adopting the MSRRA, but that does not mean there aren’t...
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Relationships and Finances

Perhaps the only things in life that can rival the anxiety-producing effects of a relationship are money and finances. Money and finances in a relationship can cause a couple to worry and to have anxiety for their future. Combining both of these essential avenues in life, relationships and finances, can...
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Shake, Rattle and Roll… What Are the Insurance and Tax Implications?

Not too long ago, I was working in my home office when I was sure that the washing machine upstairs was completely unbalanced. As I started up the stairs I realized that the washing machine was off and I was going through an earthquake. I spent a few years in...
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Cash for Clunkers…Or the Tax Consequences of Donating Your Vehicle

After my 27 years in the USAF, I’m convinced that military members are some of the most generous people in the world. Folks routinely give of their time, money and possessions to help those less fortunate than themselves. If you have considered donating a car to charity, you may be...
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Full-Time Student on the GI Bill? You Might Be In a Unique Tax Situation

I had someone propose an interesting question to me the other day regarding Tax Returns. The basic question went something like this: “I’m a full-time student on the GI Bill and I have zero income. Should I file a tax return?” My first thought was, “No you have no requirement...
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Which Benefits Are Available to LGB Military Families?

Gay soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines have been able to serve openly since September 20th, 2011, when the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy was officially revoked. However, due to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), the federal government is barred from recognizing same sex marriages – even if a couple...
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How to make the most of your paycheck

Your pay in the military is fixed by your rank and time in grade. That’s part of the appeal of the service. Making that paycheck stretch is something many struggle with, especially as they are starting out. There are things you can do that effect the amount of pay you...
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