Your financial situation can affect your security clearance, your mission readiness and your family life. DoD PFMs and financial counselors understand what you’re going through, and the unique financial challenges you face as a service member.
Tips
- PFMs or other financial counselors are usually part of the Airman & Family Readiness Center, Army Community Service, Fleet and Family Support Center, Marine Corps Community Services, or their equivalents.
- Consult a PFM counselor for a private and confidential talk. PFMs can help you with:
- one-on-one counseling
- free classes and seminars on money management, your credit, military savings programs, and how to get out of debt
- applying for emergency financial help
- getting your free FICO credit score through the FINRA Investor Education Foundation.
- To find a PFM, visit Military Installations and select "Personal Financial Management Services” or call Military OneSource (1-800-342-9647) and the Military and Family Life Counselors program.
- You and your family can access free legal services through your legal assistance office. Specific services vary by installation.
- If you’re an active duty servicemember, reservist, or member of the National Guard on active duty, you have important rights under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). The SCRA allows you:
- to get reduced interest rates on your mortgage, credit card, car and some student loans
- postpone foreclosure, eviction, repossession, default judgments and other matters in civil court, and income tax payment
- terminate your phone contract and auto or residential lease
- protect against termination of life insurance.
- If you’re an active duty servicemember, reservist, or member of the National Guard on active duty, you have important rights under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). The SCRA allows you:
- The protections start the day you begin active duty and end 30 to 90 days after the date you’re discharged. Contact your legal assistance program with questions.