Making the Most of Your Money

I really hate to toot my own horn, but I've been persuaded.  For a little over a year now, I've been writing another blog at Military.com called The Paycheck Chronicles.  The Paycheck Chronicles is all about money and much of the content is specific to our military experiences.  I try to include a variety of types of information, from good deals to big questions to interesting articles elsewhere on the web.

One thing lacking at The Paycheck Chronicles:  smart and useful comments like we have here at SpouseBUZZ.  The conversations that occur in the comments here are the best part about SpouseBUZZ (in my humble opinion.)  I've been hoping to build that sort of community at The Paycheck Chronicles but it hasn't happened yet.

Anyway, if you are interested in stretching your paycheck a little further, or learning more about financial issues, or just hearing other thoughts, check it out.  And if you would like to contribute to the learning, that would be great!  I will look forward to seeing my SpouseBUZZ friends at my other home.

'Think Like A Spy'

Do you take measures to protect your identity and personal information?

I love my husband, but sometimes...

Sometimes I want to smack him!  I wrote a post a while ago about my struggle regarding whether I should get a job after our PCS in July.  I struggle with this as a wife, mother, and professional.  About a week after I wrote that post I decided NOT to get a job.  I quickly became involved in multiple volunteer activities and have enjoyed each and every one of them.  Plus, I get to go to the gym a few times a week while the kids are in school.

So last night I was balancing the checkbook and paying bills and when I looked at my husband's LES I was very surprised.  Since we now live on post we don't get BAH, which is a nominal amount of money that is no longer in our pocket.  Plus we haven't sold our house in PA, so that's another chunk of money we are "missing."  I told my husband what his take-home pay was now and his response was:  "You need to get a job."

Whoops

Something that was not on my deployment checklist, but should have been...

Put the EZ Pass on hold - that commute won't be happening for a while.

On the bright side, Air Force Guy shouldn't ever have a problem with low funds again.

Free is good...

I know it's short notice, but if you are going to be in the Palm Beach Gardens, FL, area Labor Day weekend, you might want to change your accommodations.  Why?  Because the PGA National Resort and Spa is offering 1-3 nights of  FREE rooms to active military.  In their words:

"America’s Military Is Our Guest Labor Day Weekend

PGA National Resort & Spa is paying tribute to those who make sacrifices every day protecting our country.  Receive a complimentary stay* at our resort Friday through Sunday.  Offer available to any active member who presents their military I.D.  Just ask for the Military Labor Day Special.

Once again, thank you for all that you do."

Click here for more info.

HAP for Military

Are you still wondering about the details regarding the Homeowner Assistance Program for Military Homeowners?

Better Understanding 'Full Replacement Value'

Things change within the military on a regular basis.  This we do know.  When it comes to moving, we all need to be on our toes and up to date.  We must know how change will impact us.

Military Money Updates

Personal Finance Guide for Military Families
Military Spouse Fellowship Program
Featured Interview: John Gannon from FINRA Foundation
Visit Save and Invest.org

More from Military Money can be found here.

While you are thinking about money, don't forget to visit The Paycheck Chronicles, Ask June and Military.com Finance for great information. 

PCSing with DPS

Changes have already come to some locations.  Over time, changes will be rolled out at installations worldwide.  It pays to be knowledgeable and prepared.

Do you know what DPS is?

"Defunct Certificates"

Will this impact you?

Financial Roadshow Dates

Save the date!

Via Military OneSource:

Wondering About 2008 Tax Statements?

When can you expect your 2008 Military Tax Statements to be available?

According to myPay you can expect the following online availability dates:

Free Antibiotics!

My kids have been sick a lot already this winter.  So have I.  Which is why I was so excited to hear about the many grocery store chains that are offering free antibiotics (and prenatal vitamins, but I better not be needing them!)  If you don't live near a military pharmacy, this is a great way to spend a little less on antibiotics this winter.  The list is at The Paycheck Chronicles, and be sure to add your store if you know of one that isn't listed.  Gotta save some money where ever we can!

Military Savings Days at Sam's Club

I can't believe I just heard about this...the press release is dated November 11th!  During this holiday season, Sam's Clubs are offering special days for military members to shop at Sam's Club without purchasing a membership.  From their website:

"Military personnel with proper identification can shop and save on their holiday meals and gifts at Sam’s Club without a membership. The company will also waive its 10 percent non-member service fee. The military open houses will be held Monday, Nov. 17, Monday, Dec. 1 and Monday, Dec. 15 in 598 Sam’s Club locations in the U.S., during regular club hours.

More than 3,000 Sam’s Club and Walmart associates are active military personnel and the company supports numerous military and veterans programs. “We hope this event makes the holidays easier for military families and, if we can help them enjoy a special meal or find a unique gift, our mission will be accomplished,” said Greg Johnston, executive vice president, Operations at Sam’s Club. “This event is in honor of our nation’s military families present and past, to show our gratitude for their sacrifices.”

What a lovely gesture!  A list of Sam's Clubs can be found here.  I hope that some of you can take advantage of this offer.  While I often find that the prices at the commissary are equal to or better than Sam's, they do have some individual great offerings and often make a good choice if you don't live near a commissary.  As long as you can keep yourself from filling a cart with a bunch of impulse purchases, this could be a great opportunity to sample Sam's Club and see if it is something that would save you money.  Enjoy!

Money, Money, Money, Mon-ey....

If you haven't been over there lately, The Paycheck Chronicles has been on fire. Kate has been offering all sorts of money-saving, wealth-building, credit-scoring and creative-budgeting tips. Bookmark The Paycheck Chronicles, and check back often. The holiday season is quickly approaching and we could all use some tips on how to stretch a dollar. 

Stretching the Military Dollar

Challenging economic times, no? Looking for ways to make the most of the military dollar? If so, head on over to a great new site which offers sensible tips for military families.

The military money experience is unique and challenging. The Paycheck Chronicles is here to help with daily tips on the special financial situations of military servicemembers and their families.

Good stuff....

Have I Been Wasting Money?

My family needs all of the grocery savings that we can get.  And, I fear know that we have been wasting some money!

Our reality is that we have growing children - their appetites seem to grow by the day.  Our grocery bill is getting larger each week and our budget is feeling the pain.  My husband says that he is now on a forced diet.  A diet imposed upon him by the fact that our children are now eating a wider variety of foods and larger portions.  Our children are eating and eating and eating.  I now fully understand why my parents frequently said - "our children are eating us out of house and home."

Focus on Finances

Military families, just like families everywhere, have financial concerns and must budget accordingly.  Many folks are struggling more within the current economy.  Finances can be a major stressor within marriages and families - but they don't have to be.

After the jump you will find more information on finances.

Installation Housing Discussion

In the past we have discussed issues and experiences surrounding privatization.  We even revisited the topic.  We have shared different views on how to deal with the companies that own our housing.  You can link to our many past discussions here.

Now up for discussion - a 'newer' issue on the topic of installation housing. 

2009 Per Diem

As many of you know, the DoD begins a new fiscal year on 1 October.

Fiscal Year 2009 Per Diem rates have been announced.  These are rates for reimbursement incurred during official military travel.  Rates to some locations have increased for FY 2009.

You can find the new CONUS FY 09 chart here and after the jump.

The official website for military related travel pays can be found here.  It includes CONUS and OCONUS.

How Do We Know If We're Done

I think my first husband may have been right...I do love the drama.

I love it so much that I move from one major life change and decision to another without so much as a quick break.

Now that I've finished law school and the bar exam (no results until Halloween, thanks), I'm thinking about babies...what is wrong with me?!

Ain't Technology Grand?

A  S  D  F

J  K  L ;

Wow - I do remember how to type... It's been ages since I've blogged and I think I've accumulated enough blog material to last the rest of the year! For now, news you can use. Two people will receive a prize valued at $975! Click here to register. Those webinars are very cool.

Money Tips for Military Families

Get some financial updates and tips after the jump.

We're Doing THAT Again

Air Force Guy has some training before he leaves on TDY this summer.  It's the kind of training he loves, and loves to complain about - the rough stuff that involves 1Million SPF sunblock and bug repellent with 100% DEET.

And shopping.  It also involves lots of shopping.  Don't get me wrong - I love shopping, but this shopping has the power to drive me completely insane.  Because my husband is a Geardo.

The Hard Conversations

On Sunday, my husband and I sat down and went over our finances.  Normally this is his lane, but since he'll be gone he's turning the reins over to me.  He showed me how the computer program works and we talked about what we're going to do with his extra entitlements.  In the course of discussing our day-to-day finances, I asked my husband what he would suggest I do if I did suddenly end up with SGLI money.

New Card Offered Through AAFES

This post is for informational purposes only!

New Military Star card works off base

Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts - UPDATE!!!

Updated: Even more info here.

I just received this from my FRG leader:

"GREAT NEWS!!!

1. The Career Advancement Account grade eligibility has been changed and
effective immediately spouses of all active duty personnel are eligible to
participate regardless of grade level. All other eligibility requirements
remain in effect.

2. Pre-requisite and remedial courses can be included in training /
education however all coursework must be completed within 2 years and lead
to a license/certification or degree.

3. Four additional Career Fields have been added:

Sharks at the gates?

You know what I'm talking about ... the green and yellow neon signs; the inviting and tantalizing promises of cash, right now, in your hands. ... and we've either known or supervised or befriended someone who through life's ups and downs, needed cash -- quick.

The Air Force sponsored program (through the Air Force Aid Society) is launching their Services program called Falcon Loan on 3 March 08.  It mirrors those programs from the other services for the most part and is something every Wingman needs to know.  AND ... if you're an AF Key Spouse, you need to understand this program. 

Fortunately for us, Love My Tanker...

NMFA Military Spouse Scholarship

Applications Now Accepted for NMFA Military Spouse Scholarship

Military spouses wishing to obtain professional certification or to attend post-secondary or graduate school may apply online for the NMFA Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship Program. Scholarships range from $500 to $1,000 and may be used for tuition, fees, and school room and board. Spouses of uniformed service members (active duty, National Guard and Reserve, retirees, and survivors) of any branch or rank are eligible to apply. Applications will be accepted January 15 through March 15, 2008. Visit www.nmfa.org/scholarship to apply.

Some Return Addresses really make my stomach turn

You know, you grab the mail, start tossing the junk in file 13; start pitching the bills into the basket to, er, pay later; and anything that you don't recognize -- you just leave on the counter, "for later."  So, the routine goes -- and it's pretty smooth for me.  I've even got the route from the front door, through the kitchen by the trashcan and into that spot I call a study, all mapped out and can do it without looking up as I go through the mail.  And then ... there it was.  The envelope with the return address that merely said, Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service.  One of the few return addresses that can really make my stomach turn.

Service Loan Programs

Money troubles?  Considering a loan?

There is much to consider before taking out any type of loan. 

Each branch of the military offers a program to help service-members and/or their families.  They also want to help service-members and family members avoid Payday Loans and the like.

Military Tax Season

As I stated last year, I personally don't find tax season a fun time of year like some people do, but alas the taxes must still be done.

Below you will find several resources to help you in filing your 2007 taxes.

A Chance To Speak Up

Sharing your opinion and/or experiences can bring about change.  The DoD would like input from service members and their families in regards to problems with consumer loans.

Space-A Policy Change Benefits Military Families

A recent change in policy will benefit military families wishing to utilize Space-A flights.

Changes Coming For Military Pay Systems

The Army online pay system will launch in October 2008.  The Air Force will follow suit in February 2009.  The Navy and Marines have yet to set a launch date.

Hopefully some of the included information will help you and your service member prepare for the upcoming changes.

So, what is this all about?

2008 Basic Allowance for Housing Rates (BAH)

Have you been anxiously awaiting the 2008 BAH rates?

You can find them via your zip code here.

NMFA Surveys

Do you belong to the NMFA?  Are you aware of the surveys that they conduct?  You can participate even if you are not a member. 

They currently have a survey that I feel is very important.  Check it out and share your experiences with them.  Participating will serve to help your military family and the military as a whole.

Current Survey:

Military Spouses, Tell Us What You Think! NMFA is currently conducting a survey on the spending and savings habits of military spouses. The survey takes about 20 minutes to complete and all completed surveys will be entered into a weekly drawing for a $500 cash prize. To access the survey directly here.

Military Home Owner Woos?

A new comment on a prior posting got me thinking. 

How are recent changes in the US housing market impacting military families, if at all?  How many of you are having issues trying to sell or rent your home pre or post PCS?  How many of you have decided to purchase a home recently and why?  How many of you have decided to delay purchasing a home and why?

We ALMOST saved $3,000 per year

I was so excited when DH brought a copy of National Guard Publication home, and I read an article on TRICARE benefits extending to National Guard families. I was thrilled. I the Queen of Frugality, started to crunch numbers in my head. We currently spend a little over $500 a month of health insurance for our family. The fee proposed by TRICARE, is $253 per month for our family. I was thrilled, at the $3,000 savings per year. I mean, I was literally jumping up and down thrilled. I was dreaming of paying off a credit card, and buying a new mattress.

I also couldn't wait to tell the readers here at SpouseBuzz about such a great benefit. We can all use tremendous savings.

But then....

Wah Wah Wah....

The Sad End of an Era

Last week hubby and I headed to Home Depot to buy some packing boxes.  As we swished through the self checkout, I handed my military ID to the checker that was babysitting all of us.

"Oh," she said.  "I'm sorry, but we're no longer offering a military discount."

I felt a sudden profound sadness, and it wasn't because I was going to get 50 cents off my purchase, either.

Yeah - They Dug Me

I can't tell you how often I'm inspired to writing from things I read in the comments here at SpouseBuzz.  I think, though, that's rather the point.  It's like a virtual family dinner, in which everyone talks, laughs, interacts, agrees, disagrees, and sometimes gets huffy (that would probably be me); but always comes back for more because, lets face it, we're family and no matter how little or much we like each other, we're there for each other.  Because often we're all we've got.

Heather S. had a great comment here asking what our experiences with military-friendly, and un-friendly, companies were.  Boy do I have some stories on that one!  And boy, am I sure no one's surprised.

Empowering Your Resume? (Easier than you might think!)

Every time The Boss comes home with "that look" in her eye (no, not THAT look -- that's for a different blog!) ... you know, the look that says "hope you like the smell of boxes and the rrrripping sound of packing tape, for here we go again," I think my decision to not work has been vindicated.  Granted, some of these places we knew might only be for a short time on station, so I figured what's the point in trying to find employment (meaningful employment) just to get set-up and then move.  So like many of you, I go the volunteer route.  Most of the times, it's been in fields or in roles that I could never have gotten paid employment for it just wasn't my area of expertise.  (West Texas boy on a big city Arts Council?  YGBSM)

All along the way though I tried to keep a copy of my resume available, if in fact pigs did begin to fly and I was asked to interview for a job.  But it just seemed that the more we moved and the more I volunteered, the more gapped and splotchy the resume became -- it looked bleak.  What I hadn't done, was something that I recently read by author Janet Farley ... and after I smacked myself on the forehead and shouted, "I could have had a V-8" ... the bleakness began disappearing ...

Turbo Tax said "what?"

When we were both active duty, it was pretty easy when tax time came.  The military finance department took what was Sam's and let us keep what was left.  About 15 years ago I started using Turbo Tax, more to have a digital record then anything.  Like many or most of the programs that help you do your taxes, it asked the questions and I dutifully filled in the blanks.  When it got to the state(s) that we lived in, it was easy as we were permanent residents of one of those "no-state-income-tax" states (yes by birth), and even if we weren't there, we were full time residents due to our military service. 

But then things changed when my service life was over and I ... became ... a ... civilian. 

"Military Saves"

There is a new DoD-wide program available.  And I always say, who can't use some money advise? 

"Military Saves" is an ongoing, DoD-wide program that also sponsors money management seminars titled, "Moneywise in the Military," held at military installations across the country, Leslye A. Arsht, deputy undersecretary of defense for military community and family policy, said today during an interview with the Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service.

"We want financial planning and financial strategies to become a part of everyday life" for servicemembers and their families, Arsht said.

Go here to continue reading the article written about the program. 

Go here to visit Military Saves directly.

Empower that Purse!

When each new year begins, we're inundated with media stories on how to trim the fat from our bodies, our budgets and our schedule.  Although it could do me good to listen to the body fat trimming advice, I have to laugh when all the budget trimming stories deal with people whose household budget is much fatter than mine!

Looking for ways to put some money away as well as discovering "found" money in your household can be very empowering!

That fun time of year, tax season!

Do you like tax season?  I know several people that love doing their taxes and think of tax season as a holiday season!

I admit that I personally loath doing our taxes each year, but they must be done. 

With that in mind, below you will find several resources to help you in preparing to file for the 2006 tax year.  If you have specific tax questions, please contact the IRS, your accountant or your local military installation tax office for help.  Your local military tax office should be announcing office opening dates and operating hours later this month.

2007 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)

FYI: The 2007 BAH rates are now available. Hope this is helpful for some of you!

Payday Loan Smackdown

Interest rates of 400% (that's four, zero, ZERO) will be a thing of the past for servicemembers and their spouses once a government-imposed cap on payday lenders is instituted. 

Have you or someone you know taken a payday loan company up on its offer?

What can these "convenient" cash quickies cost?

Military Money Matters

Military.com provides a very wide variety of services and great information for all military branches.  A great example of information that they provide is Money Matters.

I know that I can always use money advice, so let's take a look at what is offered this week.

Military Families Beware

The following information comes from Army Families Online but it applies to all services.

Across the United States individuals and communities have shown an amazing level of concern and support for Soldiers deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq and their families. Unfortunately, there are a few bad apples who see the war against terrorism as an opportunity to make money by targeting military families with all manner of scams.

The National Association of Tax Professionals reports that some unscrupulous individuals are trying to obtain credit card information from military families by posing as Internal Revenue Service employees.

In one scam, a person claiming to be from the IRS contacts a family by telephone and informs them that they are entitled to a $4,000 tax refund because they have a family member deployed. In order to receive the refund, the family is asked to provide their credit card information to cover a $42 postage fee. There is no $4,000 tax refund available for military families who have a family member deployed. Moreover, IRS employees do not solicit credit card information, nor does the IRS charge postage or processing fees for refunds.

In another e-mail scam, military families are being directed to a Web site and asked to fill out a form with their personal financial information. However, the site is not an IRS site and IRS employees do not ask for personal information through e-mail.