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Financial help

Whether you’re looking for help finding the best deals at your exchange or commissary, seeking investment information as you prepare for retirement or working to improve your credit, our financial columnists can help. You’ll find their columns here, along with information on military-specific state and federal tax issues.

Tax guide: Refunds, credits, extensions, free help and more
The Internal Revenue Service has given you a gift of sorts — an extra two days to pay your taxes.
Posted Monday Jan 30, 2012 12:12:42 EST
It pays to have enough life insurance: Policies beyond SGLI can spell financial security
Having the money from an extra life insurance policy above and beyond Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance gave Vivianne Wersel extra options after her Marine husband died in early 2005.
Posted Saturday Jan 21, 2012 12:32:06 EST
2012 Military Times Insurance Guide: A look at the types of life insurance
Know what you're getting when you buy a life insurance policy. Some give coverage for a specific number of years — a "term" — such as Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance, which covers...
Posted Saturday Jan 21, 2012 11:58:06 EST
2012 Military Times Insurance Guide: VGLI may serve as life insurance ‘bridge’
When you leave the military, your Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance coverage remains in effect for 120 days.
Posted Saturday Jan 21, 2012 11:57:14 EST
2012 Military Times Insurance Guide: Look at total picture when considering spouse policy
When Vivianne Wersel and her husband reviewed their life insurance needs in 1993,...
Posted Saturday Jan 21, 2012 11:55:26 EST
Consumer watch: Steer clear of tax scams
With the start of a new year, our thoughts invariably turn to taxes.
Posted Thursday Jan 5, 2012 11:51:18 EST
Consumer Watch: Refinancing your car loan may save you money
Depending on the annual percentage rate and other terms of your auto loan, you might want to look at refinancing. You could lower your monthly payment and save a few hundred bucks over the life of...
Posted Thursday Dec 29, 2011 11:38:18 EST
Consumer Watch: Bargains for Black Friday and beyond
Before Thanksgiving Day arrives, here's some ammunition to help you plan and stretch those dollars on Black Friday.
Posted Thursday Nov 17, 2011 21:43:38 EST
The banks’ explanation
The banks with the highest average annual fees in our analysis all say those fees are not necessarily being paid by their military customers. To the banks' credit, all of their one-time overdraft...
Posted Thursday Oct 6, 2011 14:35:18 EDT
12 tips for managing fees
Whether you're just starting out or already have a checking account set up, it's time to start looking at fees.
Posted Thursday Oct 6, 2011 14:32:52 EDT
Consumer Watch: Don’t get burned
More than half of all banks with exclusive agreements to operate on military bases charged above-average annual fees on deposit accounts in 2010, according to a Military Times analysis — some...
Posted Thursday Oct 6, 2011 14:29:41 EDT
Consumer Watch: There may be money waiting for you to find
Could there be forgotten money or other property out there that belongs to you?
Posted Thursday Sep 29, 2011 14:49:42 EDT
Consumer Watch: Risk and reward
Doug and Marge Nordman have the intestinal fortitude to invest aggressively, even in retirement. Their financial habits have gotten them where they are today — enjoying life in Hawaii.
Posted Thursday Sep 15, 2011 14:23:59 EDT
Consumer Watch: Beware of ‘phishing’ scams
"Take this quick survey for a free gift card … click here."
Posted Thursday Sep 8, 2011 13:58:32 EDT
Millions of coupons: Military shoppers score savings on base
Wendy Wendler is an extreme military couponer, shaving about $250 off her grocery bill every month. But the wife of an Air Force master sergeant and mother of two at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.,...
Posted Thursday Aug 18, 2011 12:28:32 EDT
How to track down deals and save cash
Depending on where you live, just shopping at your local exchange can mean an instant discount over the same product off base. Not only are prices typically lower, no state or local sales tax can...
Posted Thursday Aug 18, 2011 12:24:34 EDT
Consumer Watch: National office can handle financial complaints
You now have even more reason to contact your legal assistance office on base if you have a complaint about an unlawful financial practice.
Posted Thursday Jul 21, 2011 15:02:14 EDT
Consumer Watch: Buy commissary gift cards in stores, skip online fees
The long-awaited commissary gift cards are available in stores and online, in denominations of $25 and $50.
Posted Thursday Jul 14, 2011 12:18:21 EDT
Consumer Watch: Exchanges can draw troops’ business with lower prices
Attention, commissary and exchange officials: If you want to know why you've lost business to stores such as Walmart, Home Depot and Target, listen up.
Posted Friday Jul 8, 2011 11:33:34 EDT
Consumer Watch: Get free legal help to clear charges hurting your credit
When Marine Lance Cpl. Jesse Young returned May 3 from a deployment to Afghanistan, he was looking forward to some down time.
Posted Thursday Jun 30, 2011 14:42:01 EDT
Consumer Watch: Retire twice
Retired soldiers Hugh and Marie Tobin don't live like royalty, but they do things they enjoy without worrying about money thanks to their longtime saving and spending habits.
Posted Thursday Jun 23, 2011 15:23:45 EDT
Consumer Watch: Summer savings
Tucked away on military bases around the country are vacation getaways to suit virtually anyone's taste and budget — a cottage at a lighthouse in Maine, lakeside cabins and beach retreats among...
Posted Thursday Jun 16, 2011 13:53:57 EDT
Fitness industry offers free services to Guard and reserve families
The fitness industry is putting some muscle into the well-being of families of deployed National Guard and reserve members, offering free gym memberships and personal training sessions.
Posted Tuesday May 31, 2011 14:32:19 EDT
Consumer Watch: Cut out the clutter before PCS season heats up
If you're moving this summer, here are three words you should consider: Purge, purge, purge! If there are things you've outgrown, don't need or don't want, don't drag them with you to your next duty...
Posted Thursday Apr 28, 2011 16:23:46 EDT
Consumer Watch: Long-term care insurance can save your savings in retirement
For some, it's hard enough to save money for an emergency fund, much less retirement. But who will take care of you if your "golden years" are not so golden? The Federal Long Term Care Insurance...
Posted Thursday Apr 21, 2011 14:04:29 EDT
Consumer Watch: Smart shopping can ease pain of rising food prices
You're spending more on groceries than you did a year ago — and they're only going to get more expensive.
Posted Thursday Apr 14, 2011 14:42:53 EDT
Deployments shut some troops out of HAP program
A Defense Department policy on a benefit to help distressed military homeowners has shut out some troops because of the timing of their deployments, according to an Air Force officer and Army...
Posted Thursday Apr 14, 2011 10:53:23 EDT
Give smart: Check out charities before making your donation
They come by email, by phone, by Facebook. Sometimes they knock on your door. Sometimes they're simply on the street or in your local mall.
Posted Thursday Apr 7, 2011 11:44:57 EDT
Consumer Watch: Free credit scores for troops
Keeping an eye on your credit reports and credit score is important to your financial health — and it just got easier.
Posted Thursday Mar 31, 2011 16:24:01 EDT
Consumer Watch: Drive smarter: 13 tips to save on gas
As gas prices spike, it's time to gauge our fuel economy progress and accelerate our efforts to save money on the gas we do have to buy.
Posted Thursday Mar 24, 2011 14:53:50 EDT
Why pressure is mounting to kill your next raise
The modest 1.6 percent military pay raise expected in 2012 could be threatened by a key lawmaker's ploy to keep federal civilians from having their pay frozen for a second year.
Posted Thursday Feb 3, 2011 10:40:42 EST
Consumer Watch: New online marketplace caters to service members
A new global military marketplace could make it easier for you to unload unneeded stuff before your next permanent change-of-station move — and put some cash in your pocket.
Posted Thursday Jan 27, 2011 16:04:00 EST
Adding coverage? Watch out for plans with ‘war exclusion’
Service members who choose to buy life insurance in addition to Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance should shop carefully and read the fine print — particularly when it comes to "war exclusion...
Posted Thursday Jan 20, 2011 14:20:54 EST
Consumer watch: Life insurance lessons
The beginning of the new year usually is when we feel the urge to go over our finances to make sure everything is still in order and think about any changes that might need to be made.
Posted Thursday Jan 20, 2011 14:17:12 EST
An emotional exit strategy
In the Navy legal aid office, my husband Jim and I talked about "what if."
Posted Thursday Jan 20, 2011 14:03:35 EST
Consumer Watch: Need a loan? Be wary of ‘fast cash’ Web lenders
If you spent too much money during the holidays, as many people did, you may be in a frenzy about how to pay your bills this month and next.
Posted Thursday Jan 13, 2011 15:22:51 EST
Consumer Watch: Most exchanges extend deadline for returning Christmas gifts
Have you returned those unwanted or ill-fitting gifts yet? You probably still have time.
Posted Friday Jan 7, 2011 12:14:46 EST
Consumer Watch: Navy Federal settles lawsuit over repossessed cars
It started with a consumer who asked a lawyer to review her case after her car was repossessed.
Posted Thursday Nov 11, 2010 19:59:24 EST
Consumer Watch: Flat-rate boxes make overseas shipping cheaper
As you're putting together your packages to send to troops overseas during the holidays, don't forget about easy, cheap, priority-mail flat-rate boxes.
Posted Saturday Oct 30, 2010 14:12:45 EDT
Consumer Watch: Looking to buy a house? HAP inventory is growing
If you're in the market for a house, check out the Homeowners Assistance Program inventory.
Posted Thursday Oct 21, 2010 16:44:58 EDT
Consumer Watch: Holiday gift cards: New law protects buyers
As you start to work out your holiday spending budget, here's a bit of good news: Gift cards are a better option than they used to be.
Posted Thursday Oct 7, 2010 17:30:22 EDT
Wounded troops, survivors may be eligible for mortgage help
Surviving spouses and wounded warriors who are struggling with mortgage payments may get relief under one of several new initiatives announced by Fannie Mae.
Posted Thursday Oct 7, 2010 11:35:48 EDT
Fix of GI Bill overpayment snafu doesn’t end issue
Just a week before the start of the fall term at veterinary school, an Army spouse won a 10-month battle with the Veterans Affairs Department, which had threatened to cut off the flow of Post-9/11 GI...
Posted Thursday Aug 26, 2010 11:13:01 EDT
Bill would refund some taxes of fallen troops
A California lawmaker wants to refund Social Security taxes when a service member dies in the line of duty.
Posted Friday Aug 13, 2010 12:10:01 EDT
Good credit: How to make it happen
After clearing up his entire debt, Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Christopher Weiss' credit score rose a mere 14 points — from 595 to 609 — between April and June.
Posted Friday Jul 23, 2010 12:29:48 EDT
Consumer Watch: Max out your payment for do-it-yourself moves
If you've come down on reassignment orders and are thinking of a do-it-yourself move, there are things you need to know about getting reimbursed by the government.
Posted Thursday Jun 24, 2010 10:57:40 EDT
Proposal: Give war-zone troops bigger raises
The Senate will soon wrestle with the question of whether it is better to provide bigger pay raises to troops in combat or smaller raises to the entire force.
Posted Thursday Jun 17, 2010 11:55:18 EDT
Consumer Watch: Army, AF exchanges now take Web coupons
Good news on the coupon front: Army and Air Force Exchange Service stores now accept Internet coupons.
Posted Tuesday Jun 8, 2010 11:05:03 EDT
2011 pay raise showdown: House, 1.9%; Senate, 1.4%
The battle is on in Congress over military pay, and it has taken a new turn with possible ramifications far beyond the size of the increase that will take effect Jan. 1.
Posted Thursday Jun 3, 2010 16:53:17 EDT
VA home loans should be exempt from new down payment rules, officials say
Recent proposals to require down payments on home loans in the wake of the mortgage crisis could seriously curtail the ability of service members and veterans to get home loans under the Veterans...
Posted Thursday May 27, 2010 14:34:51 EDT
Donations by troops hold up in economic slump
The military community continues to rally behind its relief societies, even in tough economic times.
Posted Tuesday Apr 13, 2010 13:12:28 EDT
Military homeowners get $54 million in HAP
About 13 percent of eligible applicants have received help from the newly expanded program that provides partial reimbursement for losses taken by service members who sell their homes for...
Posted Thursday Feb 18, 2010 15:31:33 EST
Higher tax bill may loom for some troops, retirees
Higher tax payments or lower refunds could await some troops and retirees as a result of a tax credit that went into effect last spring in conjunction with the Obama administration's 2009 economic...
Posted Thursday Jan 21, 2010 12:48:28 EST
How much insurance do you need?
You may think $400,000 is a lot of money — and it is. But when it comes to life insurance, is $400,000 in Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance enough?
Posted Friday Jan 15, 2010 10:37:48 EST
Consumer Watch: Look into online eyeglass options for discounts
If you're looking for more options and discounts on eyeglasses and contact lenses, browse some stores in the military exchanges' online mall.
Posted Monday Dec 14, 2009 18:45:27 EST
Consumer Watch: Protect your budget this holiday season
It's a holiday tradition: playing tug-of-war with ourselves over what we want to spend, and what we can afford to spend, on gifts for our loved ones.
Posted Friday Dec 4, 2009 12:43:23 EST
Consumer Watch: Child death puts focus on window-blind cords
Marine wife Chantal Teraberry never imagined that window blinds would pose a hazard for her child.
Posted Monday Sep 28, 2009 10:39:02 EDT
Consumer watch: Smart Choices Program guides shoppers to healthier products
Recently you may have seen some products sporting new labels with green check marks in your commissary and other grocery stores. And while it could prove to be a useful tool for those who want to eat...
Posted Wednesday Sep 23, 2009 11:02:41 EDT
Federal employees get pay supplement when called up
Rob Sperling earns a healthy salary as acting communications director for the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. But, until now, when he was called up to serve his country in the Air...
Posted Thursday Apr 23, 2009 14:15:51 EDT
Jobless rules can be vexing
Navy wife Stephanie Cato found out the hard way that dealing with state unemployment compensation long distance can be frustrating — or worse.
Posted Thursday Apr 9, 2009 15:03:03 EDT
COLA won’t go negative as consumer prices fall
Although the cost of living is falling, paychecks for military and federal civilian retirees won't get smaller under current federal law.
Posted Thursday Feb 12, 2009 13:30:58 EST
Financial fitness
'Tis the season ... to get your personal finances back into fighting shape.
Posted Monday Dec 22, 2008 6:54:43 EST
Survey: Job search harder for vets
Job searches that last six months or more are much more common for veterans leaving active duty than for non-veterans who are changing jobs, according to a survey conducted for CareerBuilder.com.
Posted Thursday Dec 11, 2008 14:52:53 EST
Some troops see bump in 2009 clothing allowance
Service members will see relatively modest changes in their annual clothing allowances to pay for wear and tear on their military uniforms in fiscal 2009.
Posted Thursday Nov 13, 2008 11:04:25 EST
COLA boost higher than pay raise
With inflation running at a rate of 5.4 percent a year, military retirees and disabled veterans are getting a 5.8 percent pay increase — while active-duty service members and reservists are...
Posted Thursday Oct 23, 2008 15:45:25 EDT
Pay and benefits upgrade
The package of military pay and benefits improvements for 2009 took shape earlier this year with approval of a new and generous GI Bill.
Posted Thursday Oct 16, 2008 15:41:29 EDT
Military families can join YMCA for free
Starting Oct. 1, families who do not live near a military installation will still have access to family programs and support services through a Defense Department initiative with the Armed Services...
Posted Thursday Oct 2, 2008 13:00:43 EDT
Phone call provider takes AT&T, AAFES to task
The executive director of a nonprofit organization honored for its efforts to provide 1 million free minutes of phone calls for troops in the war zone used the ceremony at which he was feted to take...
Posted Thursday Sep 18, 2008 16:55:33 EDT
Small COLA hike a surprise to veterans
A 2.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment in veterans' disability and survivor pay approved by the Senate just before the summer congressional recess is drawing complaints and head-scratching from...
Posted Thursday Aug 21, 2008 12:17:08 EDT
Inflation outpacing military pay hike
A 3.9 percent military pay raise for 2009 seemed generous when lawmakers first proposed it in February, but its luster is dimming as rising inflation threatens to erode service members' purchasing...
Posted Thursday Jul 31, 2008 15:05:34 EDT
Are service members perceived as a higher foreclosure risk?
Family advocates are concerned that recent reports about home foreclosure rates in areas with a substantial military presence will hurt service members who try to buy houses this summer.
Posted Thursday Jun 19, 2008 14:47:39 EDT
DoD backs automatic TSP signup
The Pentagon supports proposed changes to the government's Thrift Savings Plan that would automatically sign up troops and offer an investment option that provides tax-free earnings at retirement, if...
Posted Thursday Jun 12, 2008 11:35:19 EDT
Bills would expand VA home loan offerings, foreclosure protection
A House subcommittee voted April 23 to update the veterans home loan program to expand availability of government-backed mortgages to service members, cut loan fees and stall foreclosure on mortgages...
Posted Thursday May 1, 2008 15:12:09 EDT
Lawmakers balk at Tricare fee hikes
Two key senators said April 16 that they will not go along with Bush administration pleas for dramatic increases in Tricare fees for military retirees, and also will work on providing better health...
Posted Thursday Apr 24, 2008 14:25:43 EDT
Commissioner defends proposal for drill duty
Defense officials reacted angrily when a congressionally appointed commission recommended Jan. 31 that the Pentagon should replace the traditional 48 drills per year for reservists with 24 days of...
Posted Thursday Feb 21, 2008 13:57:41 EST
Go online to get your W-2 faster
Tax season is just around the corner, and those all-important 2007 W-2 forms will start being mailed to service members in early to mid-January. But here's a reminder: Those who can access their pay...
Posted Thursday Dec 20, 2007 11:55:47 EST
Group offers free credit scores to troops, families
Service members and their spouses can now get a free credit score — an analysis of their creditworthiness — as well as a personalized action plan to improve that score.
Posted Thursday Nov 15, 2007 12:11:38 EST
Congress tries to fix GI Bill for reservists
A bipartisan bill to fix a glitch in GI Bill eligibility that has denied thousands of National Guard and reserve members the right to bigger education benefits has run into an unexpected hurdle...
Posted Wednesday Nov 7, 2007 0:10:34 EST
Some charities choose to it alone in the CFC
Among the 278 new national and international charities that have made it through the Combined Federal Campaign's vetting process this year are USA Cares, a Radcliff, Ky.-based charity that has had...
Posted Thursday Nov 1, 2007 16:46:25 EDT
Law restricts family loan options
Some military personnel and their families will find that certain loans are no longer available to them Oct. 1, as payday loan companies and other lenders consider their options in preparing for a...
Posted Thursday Sep 13, 2007 17:26:57 EDT
Officials: Scheme may have cost troops $50M
State and federal agencies are investigating an allegedly fraudulent investment scheme targeting service members that apparently has spread to 23 states — and to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan,...
Posted Thursday Jun 21, 2007 12:20:32 EDT
Getting the most out of your combat-pay exclusion
You know that basic pay, allowances and bonuses received while in a combat zone are tax free.
Posted Wednesday Nov 29, 2006 10:55:32 EST
Sending mail to troops gets more costly
The cost of postage stamps may have increased by two cents, or 5 percent, but rates for packages have gone up a lot more in some cases, say those who support the troops.
Posted Wednesday Dec 31, 1969 19:00:00 EST
TSP funds unfazed by teetering stock market
By July, the collapse of the subprime mortgage market was throwing investors around the world into a crisis.
Posted Wednesday Dec 31, 1969 19:00:00 EST
National and international charities new to the CFC
The following charities have become part of the Combined Federal Campaign.
Posted Wednesday Dec 31, 1969 19:00:00 EST
Consumer Watch: Boost your credit score
Staff Sgt. Christopher Weiss had a great credit history when he left the Air Force in 2006.
Posted Wednesday Dec 31, 1969 19:00:00 EST
The buzz on bargains: Advice from the military’s extreme couponers
Some tips from the military's extreme couponers.
Posted Wednesday Dec 31, 1969 19:00:00 EST

Consumer Watch

Consumer watch: Tax basics for the troops — Refunds, credits, extensions, free help and more
The Internal Revenue Service has given you a gift of sorts — an extra two days to pay your taxes.
Consumer Watch: Military relief societies offer financial aid for range of needs
For troops and their families hit with a financial emergency, military relief societies are the first line of defense.
Consumer Watch: 5 ways to save and still give something great
If you haven't finished — or started — your holiday shopping, don't panic. We've got some ideas that go easy on the stress and the wallet.
Consumer Watch: WeCar membership lets troops rent a car by the hour
You may not need a car all the time. You may not be able to afford one. But if you need a car every now and then for an hour or two — or a day, or a weekend — a new option is coming to...
Consumer Watch: Cash in more coupons
More coupons may be heading your way thanks to a joint effort between CouponCabin.com and the Troopons program from SupportOurTrops.org.
Consumer Watch: More debt help for troops
It may seem odd to think about credit counseling as you gear up for holiday shopping.
Consumer Watch: Ask for hidden deals
Coupons and discounts are great ways to stretch your budget, and with Veterans Day approaching, look for discounts all around. We'd even go so far as to suggest asking about unadvertised discounts...
Consumer Watch: Credit unions generally charge less in fees than banks
With the news these days about some banks charging extra fees, many people are thinking about moving their accounts.
Credit unions generally charge less in fees than banks
With the news these days about some banks charging extra fees, many people are thinking about moving their accounts.
Consumer Watch: Storage nightmare is the result of a temporary assignment, an unexpected extension and a lifetime of possessions lost
While Navy Cmdr. Wilma Roberts was stationed in Okinawa, she was comforted by the knowledge that her china and cabinets, her daughter's ballerina outfit, her photos and all of her other prized...
Consumer Watch: Link up with more deals
A new feature at Commissaries.com gives you a direct route to more savings on your favorite brands.
Consumer Watch: Case lot countdown – how to make the most out of commissary’s September sale
This September's commissary case lot sales are offering more flexible "mix and match" deals to help you squeeze the most out of your money.
Consumer Watch: Buying a used car? Watch out for these pitfalls
When you're looking to buy a used car, it can seem like a real jungle out there.
Consumer Watch: Use market turmoil to stand back, study your investments, debt
As you watched the news of Standard & Poor's downgrade of the U.S. credit rating on Aug. 5, and then the stock market free fall three days later, hopefully you didn't rush into any financial...
Consumer Watch: Ready for disaster
Whether you live on the nation's rain-splattered coasts, in its tornado-ravaged midsection or somewhere else prone to extreme weather, it's never a bad time to think about restocking — or just...
Consumer Watch: Even among exchanges, it pays to shop around
What do diapers and motorcycle safety gear have in common?
Consumer Watch: Personal debt crisis? Check out aid options — now
Whether it's the debt ceiling crisis or a personal budget issue, you have some options if you're worried about being able to pay your bills.
Consumer Watch: Stop clipping and load your savings onto a commissary coupon card
Shoppers can expect to see two new incentive cards at commissaries over the next several months — a digital coupon card and a gift card.
Consumer Watch: How to avoid fees for canceling cell service
Two recent questions have come in that relate to cancellation of cellphone service because of military orders.
Consumer Watch: Military financial managers grant free FICO scores
An Army colonel in Iraq wrote in with questions about why troops and family members must contact personal financial managers on military installations to get the free credit scores being offered by...
Consumer Watch: How to manage your PCS move
Moving industry experts say this summer's heavy moving season could be even worse than last year's, when some military families were left waiting for their household goods to be picked up or...
Consumer Watch: PCS in 12 easy steps
Here are some steps to follow in your PCS move.
Consumer Watch: Packing for your PCS
• Get rid of unnecessary items. Start using up items such as food. Theresa Donahoe, who has moved 10 times with her husband, Army Col. Patrick Donahoe, begins paring down canned and frozen foods...
Consumer Watch: Once you’re settled
Service members are entitled to full replacement and repair value for damaged and lost household goods.
Consumer Watch: Some lenders want to raise your rates
Everyone has a choice when it comes to financial products, but those in the military community have extra options.
Consumer Watch: Mortgage or lease?
When Kellie Warren and her husband, Lt. Cmdr. Hank Warren, moved to northern Virginia from Guam last summer, they weren't skittish about the housing market.
Consumer Watch: 13 hidden benefits for troops, families
You may know that the Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act allows you to get your interest rate reduced to 6 percent on certain debts you incurred before active duty, and that it lets you vote and pay...
Consumer Watch: Little changes help you lay away serious loot
Saving money starts with little things — and enough little things add up to big things. Imagine having a cushion of $1,200 in the bank by making one small change to your daily routine.
Legal advice might have saved officer from moving expenses
Asking for professional advice can save you a lot of hassle — and money.
Consumer Watch: Tips for a tax windfall
Don't let taxes take any more of a bite out of your wallet than absolutely necessary.
Military buyers beware
SmartBuy, a chain of stores that sold high-priced electronics in malls near at least 10 military installations, has closed its doors, an attorney for the company says.
Consumer Watch: Learn to keep detailed financial records
Marine Corps Capt. Jonathon Rowles and his wife, Julia, have always meticulously documented all correspondence relating to their mortgage, credit cards and other household accounts.
New online marketplace caters to service members
A new global military marketplace could make it easier for you to unload unneeded stuff before your next permanent change-of-station move — and put some cash in your pocket.
Consumer Watch: Commissary baggers mind their own business, for tips
You see the signs frequently at the commissary: "Baggers work for tips only."
Consumer Watch: Holidays don’t mean holiday from budgeting
It's the week before Christmas and you feel like a louse. Your shopping's not done, and you're stressed, no doubt.
Consumer Watch: Charity ratings can be hit or miss, depending on reviewer
If you want to check out a charity to make sure your donations will be used wisely, prepare to be confused: Ratings can differ markedly, depending on who does them.
Consumer Watch: Making sense of store credit cards
In the throes of holiday shopping, you're sticking to your list and tracking your spending. Will you be derailed by the offer of a new store credit card?
Consumer Watch: Walking away from your mortgage
Army Lt. Col. Christopher Meredith says he won't walk away from his responsibility in making the mortgage payments on his house — even though it's draining his family's finances.
Consumer Watch: Charities that hit home
For many people, giving is at the heart of the holidays — not just to friends and family, but to favorite charities.
Consumer Watch: Search for discounts before you buy
As we careen toward the holidays, we start to think about making the best use of our shopping dollars.
Consumer Watch: Ohio paying bonuses to troops from Gulf, Iraq, Afghan wars
If you're a resident of Ohio, you may have good reason to be happy.
Save now and you could have a $462K — or more — retirement nest egg
Does saving $462,000 sound impossible?
Apply now if you qualify for HAP
Military homeowners applying for help with financial losses associated with selling a home should take note of some tips from the Army Corps of Engineers, which administers the expanded Homeowners...
Credit Card Act kicks in, consumers benefit
Credit card holders take note: New rules took effect Aug. 22 that offer consumers more protections on fees and interest rate increases.
Power of attorney may not be enough to get you what you need while deployed
Army Pvt. Rebecca Fourquet found a car online while deployed to Iraq.
Consumer Watch: How to grant power of attorney
Army Pvt. Rebecca Fourquet found a car online while deployed to Iraq.
Nike, UA shoes come to online exchange
Nike and Under Armour shoes are coming to the exchange online store by mid-August.
Consumer Watch: Online exchange adds new footwear lines
Nike and Under Armour shoes are coming to the exchange online store by mid-August.
Teaser rate time bomb: Delayed-interest cards could be a good deal, but beware of fine print
Buy now! Pay no interest until 2013! Sounds appealing, right?
Home Depot discount still in effect, savvy shopper finds
Air Force widow Peggy Carmin asked why her Home Depot store in Marin County, Calif., was no longer giving her a 10 percent discount on purchases.
Consumer Watch: Front-line foreclosure
Deployment stress can affect virtually every aspect of your life.
Consumer watch: Cheap trips
It's not too late to make last-minute vacation plans — and you don't need to spend thousands of dollars. Good deals are available right under your nose, with Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps...
Max out your payment for do-it-yourself moves
If you've come down on reassignment orders and are thinking of a do-it-yourself move, there are things you need to know about getting reimbursed by the government.
If you’re selling at a loss due to PCS, expanded HAP can help
Army Corps of Engineers officials expect to catch up by November on the avalanche of applications they have received for the Homeowners Assistance Program.
Consumer Watch: If you’re selling at a loss due to PCS, expanded HAP can help
Army Corps of Engineers officials expect to catch up by November on the avalanche of applications they have received for the Homeowners Assistance Program.
Attorneys general: Company defrauded service members
More than $1 million will be returned to 615 soldiers once stationed at Fort Campbell, Ky., who were victims of questionable sales and financing of electronics, according to the Tennessee attorney...
Car-loan scams: Learn to spot bad deals, unscrupulous lenders
Service members, especially young ones, are sometimes targets of unscrupulous businesses — including some used car lots.
The hidden cost of gambling
If you didn't have enough reasons not to gamble before, here's another big one: The tax bite could cost you in more ways than you think.
12 ways to thank Mom — and not break the bank
Lisa Knickerbocker had just removed one of her favorite Mother's Day gifts from the refrigerator door for packing, in preparation for her family's move to Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.
June court date coming in uniform refund case
The Maine attorney general's office is still fighting for service members who have been trying — some for years — to get refunds for military uniform items ordered from Military...
Need emergency cash? Look to relief societies first
It's illegal for payday lenders to charge service members or their families more than a 36 percent annual rate — but other companies are finding ways to charge you more.
When housing aid goes wrong
Marine Sgt. Scott Rocco and his wife, Chylea, were ecstatic when they learned in November that they would receive $93,026 from the Homeowners Assistance Program.
Use caution, common sense when deciding whether to own a home
For service members, owning a piece of the American dream — a home — is complicated, because most military families move every few years.
Consumer Watch: Check credit card bills for ‘cramming’
Legal assistance officials are warning folks in the military community to check their credit card charges carefully each month in the wake of a new credit card scam.
Consumer Watch: Couples can get free help to climb out of debt
If there weren't already enough reasons to turn to Military OneSource for help, here's one more: Service members and spouses can get up to 12 free face-to-face financial counseling sessions per year...
Consumer watch: Personal finance specialists offer free counseling to troops
When a soldier came into Ana Hernandez's office at Fort Bliss, Texas, recently to get help with financial problems, a big expense was quickly apparent to her: a $630 monthly payment for furniture...
Consumer watch: Spring into action with vacation Web deals
The bitter winter that has gripped parts of the U.S. has many of us yearning for a warm vacation.
Consumer Watch: Lowe’s, Home Depot discounts now year-round
For those of you who have been waiting for holiday military discount weekends at home improvement stores — wait no more.
Consumer Watch: Careful coupon clipping can save hundreds of dollars
Coupons are like money, if you use them wisely. And you can always get more — free.
Consumer Watch: 5 years in house required for tax break
A Marine gunnery sergeant asked whether he qualifies under a change in law that allows long-term homeowners to get tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase new residences.
Consumer Watch: Don’t ignore tax bills, even wrong ones
Three Army officers previously stationed in California are wondering why they got state income tax bills from California, even though they are now legal residents of other states.
Consumer watch: On USAA MemberShop, follow links for current price
A reader who is a USAA member questioned whether the USAA MemberShop portal really is a bargain.
Consumer Watch: Don’t delay when returning, exchanging holiday gifts
The gifts are opened, the wrapping paper is in shreds, and cleanup is underway.
Consumer Watch: Go online for free investment tools
Are you looking to tweak your investments at the end of the year?
Consumer Watch: Site’s secondhand diamonds come with a guarantee
Some service members are buying and selling secondhand diamonds and other jewelry on an unusual online auction site called "I Do Now I Don't," at
Consumer Watch: Exchanges offer extended hours, holiday specials
It's that time of year — holiday specials are coming to your local military stores on base and online.
Consumer Watch: New law means new rates for some cardholders
A sailor wants to know why his credit union raised the interest rate on his credit cards.
Consumer watch: New options for gift vouchers and cards
Good news for military shoppers: Commissary officials have come up with a new gift certificate program that doesn't tack on extra fees. And more exchange customers can use gift cards online.
Consumer Watch: Avoid Tricare fraud
Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Charles Burns was highly suspicious when two men came to his home, claiming to be representatives of a Tricare contractor.
Consumer Watch: Stay in charge of your FICO credit score to save money
When it comes to your credit score — the figure the helps lenders decide whether to give you a loan, and at what interest rate — there are some things you can't control.
Consumer Watch: Corps of Engineers’ offices buried in HAP requests
Patience, patience ... at least for now.
Consumer Watch: Perishables too pricey for DeCA home delivery
An Army wife wrote recently to ask when she'll be able to order groceries online from her local commissary.
Consumer Watch: Customers still awaiting refund from uniform retailer
Air Force wife Lisa Knickerbocker's hopes are dimming that she and her husband will ever see their $140 refund from Maine online uniform retailer M.A.A.C.S. — even after a February court order...
Consumer Watch: Emergency fund can decrease stress
Who needs an emergency fund?
Consumer Watch: Read your mail for info from credit card companies
It's more important than ever to open your mail and read it — especially if it is mail from a credit card company, bank or other financial institution.
Uncertain timing on loan program making homeowners unhappy
Many of you are extremely frustrated as you wait to find out whether you will get help from the expanded, $555 million Homeowners Assistance Program, designed to help certain military and federal...
Consumer Watch: Think twice before you pay
A 20-year-old soldier headed to the exchange at Fort Bliss, Texas, on June 7 to buy a phone card. By the time he left, he had committed to buying more than $3,000 worth of books.
Consumer Watch: Commissary complaint brings up eligibility, supply and demand
A reader complains that his commissary at Fort Hamilton, N.Y., is being "raided" by people who are not eligible to shop.
Consumer watch: Legal installment loans can still rip you off
Just because a company's high-interest loans comply with federal and state laws doesn't mean you should sign up for one.
Consumer Watch: Latest online scam targets troops’ grandparents
A new scam targeting military families is a good reminder to us all to review the personal information we put on social networking sites.
Consumer Watch: In-state tuition rates to continue after transfer
If you or your child attend a public college or university, your tuition bill might have just gotten a lot cheaper.
In-state tuition rates to continue after transfer
If you or your child attend a public college or university, your tuition bill might have just gotten a lot cheaper.
Coupons 101: How to cash in on wallet-savers
A disturbing thing happened in commissaries in 2008: Customers used about 8 percent fewer coupons than the year before.
Coupons 101: How to cash in on wallet-savers
A disturbing thing happened in commissaries in 2008: Customers used about 8 percent fewer coupons than the year before.
Check charity’s history before you donate
Since Sept. 11, 2001, charities have sprung up everywhere purporting to help veterans and military families.
To improve credit scores, pay down credit cards first
A 22-year-old Marine deployed to Afghanistan wants to get his credit score in shape.
Law protects renters when landlord faces foreclosure
A new law gives extra time to most renters — including military renters — who are forced to move because their landlord's property has been foreclosed.
Consumer Watch: Financial planning can help smooth a PCS
If you're moving to a new duty station this year, consider saving yourself a lot of stress by picking up some good financial habits along the way.
Exchange Online Mall now one-stop vacation shop
Now you can plan your vacation and buy your luggage from the same Web site — and get military deals on both.
Consumer Watch: Waiting on help for homeowners
With the moving season upon us, military homeowners caught in the sour housing market have been asking me for advice.
Consumer Watch: Web vendor gives troops extra cash for recycling electronics
Your options for recycling — and making some cash — just expanded.
Consumer Watch: DoD’s homeowner help program still cloudy
With the moving season upon us, military homeowners caught in the sour housing market have been asking me for advice.
Web vendor gives troops extra cash for recycling electronics
Your options for recycling — and making some cash — just expanded.
Military lodging often your best deal
Whether you're hitting the road for a vacation or looking for a cheap weekend getaway, the hunt for inexpensive lodging begins at your computer and with some resources on your local installation.
Maine AG wants uniform refunds on fast track
The Maine attorney general's office is taking action to speed up refunds for military uniform items ordered from Military Accessories and Community Support.
Make your money travel
Now's the time for military families to take that dream vacation for a couple of weeks — or even a long weekend — without breaking the bank.
Limits set for CertifiChecks
Now that commissaries and exchanges are all onboard with accepting the gift certificates known as CertifiChecks, even though the contractor for the program is defunct, customers need to be aware of...
Customers left in lurch with useless gift certificates
Commissary patrons have been left holding useless commissary gift certificates after the company that administered the program, CertifiChecks Inc., abruptly went out of business Feb. 26.
How to get help if you are buying, or can’t sell, a home
Economic stimulus, tax breaks for homeowners, mortgage forgiveness, debt relief …
Grab great deals at online auction site
Trolling for deals? You should try the new auction site in the military exchanges' online mall.
Credit card companies feel the squeeze
The bills probably have rolled in after the holiday spending spree, possibly adding to balances you've already racked up.
Travel insurance could save the day — and cash
The Picard family had looked forward to the cruise for weeks.
Lines of defense ensure commissary food safety
How safe is the food you buy at the commissary?
Sgt. Shopper
You can have that warm glow of holiday generosity this year and still be kind to your pocketbook.
Make a holiday budget and stick to it with discounts
As you steel yourself to run the annual gauntlet of holiday shopping, the first thing you should do is map out a budget.
Sgt. Shopper: Don’t be rushed or misled by insurance pitchmen
Strolling through the mall or waiting in line to see a movie, you're probably not thinking about buying life insurance or making an investment. But you might be approached by a salesman, so make sure...
Sgt. Shopper: Military banks, credit unions raising rates
Uncertain economic times are making us cut back on spending, drive less, eat out less, use more coupons.
War-zone Web: Exchange targets poor service in Afghanistan
An Army wife at Fort Campbell, Ky., is frustrated with the Internet service for troops in Afghanistan.
How safe is your bank as financial markets melt?
With all the screaming headlines about the recent earthquakes in the financial sector, have you been wondering about the safety of your money in banks and credit unions? Maybe considering whether it...
Online electronics recycling: Good deal on going green
Digging through drawers and closets for old cell phones, electronics and computers could pay off in more ways than one.
Nevada lender’s legal trouble shows perils of Internet loans
Nevada officials have ordered the companies behind two Web sites that provide loans to military personnel worldwide —
Coupons can be key part of your saving strategy
Feeling the need to hunker down and save some money? Then fire up your computer.
Beware spiking insurance rates for vacant home: Officials advise shopping around for best policy
An Army major has discovered another unfortunate expense associated with trying to sell his house in a lagging housing market: the cost of homeowner's insurance for a vacant home.
Military stores having gas pains
Do you know anyone not paying attention to gas prices? Many people are taking steps to reduce the amount of fuel they use.
Expanded Navy Federal could mean better deals for old, new members
What exactly does the expansion of Navy Federal Credit Union to include the Army and Air Force community mean for customers?
Commissaries can help shoppers offset rising food costs
Have you shopped at your commissary lately?
Protect yourself when buying from private uniform companies
This is the second in a series on uniform purchases from unofficial suppliers.
Troops blast online uniform retailer
Sometimes the online store that seems to have just what you're looking for isn't what it seems.
Stopping unwanted sales calls, mail can protect your credit
We get pummeled from every angle by people trying to sell us something — or scam us — through e-mail, snail mail and by phone.
Exchange card offers rewards, off-base purchasing power
If you need another reason to do your shopping on a military installation, this might be it:
Send new boxes to beat post office rate hikes
The May 12 postal rate increase will hit your wallet — but you'll still get a break shipping larger flat-rate boxes to APO and FPO addresses.
Foreclosure may affect more than your credit score
Marine spouse Rebecca Hartman asks a timely question: How would a home foreclosure or a "deed in lieu of foreclosure" affect her husband's career?
Free help for military tax filers: No taxable income? You can still qualify for stimulus payouts
Got questions on your taxes? Wondering if you need to file because you spent the year in a war zone and had no taxable income?
Budget strategy a big part of downsizing your debt
On March 10, 2007, Sgt. 1st Class Reno Peterson and his wife, Lisa, made a rash decision. They decided to live on their income, within their means, and stop buying on credit.
Law limits troops’ options for tax-refund loans
If you're counting on getting a refund anticipation loan ... don't. Those are loans for the amount of your anticipated tax refund until the refund itself comes in to repay the loan — about two...
Military-friendly lenders may be helpful during housing crisis
With all the news about mortgage loans gone bad, homes in foreclosure and housing prices dropping, you may be wondering what you can expect if you're looking to buy a home or refinance your mortgage.
Interest rate is only one factor when comparing credit cards
Listen up. A Navy chief wants to know why the exchange services' Military Star card carries a high interest rate.
Get creative when tackling holiday debt
Listen up. Still feeling that holiday glow? Will you still feel it when the bills start hitting your mailbox this month?
Remedies for holiday spending hangovers
Listen up. Did you wake up in 2008 with a financial hangover from that holiday spending frenzy?
Coupons can mean big savings — if they’re real
Listen up. Coupons are popular with military families looking to stretch their money. Nearly 128 million coupons were redeemed in military commissaries in 2006, with a total savings of nearly $94...
Sgt. Shopper
Listen up.
You’re entitled to free credit reports
Listen up. Keeping tabs on your credit report is important for a lot of reasons. Mistakes on the reports can cost you money in higher interest rates. And if someone steals your identity, you might...
Overdraft fees could have you seeing red
Listen up.
Quick cash: options to payday loans
Listen up. Have you tried to get a payday loan lately? Do you plan to rely on a payday loan or refund anticipation loan to pay your holiday bills early next year?
Consider shipping costs when ordering overseas
Listen up.
Some troops qualify for loan interest rate reductions
Listen up. You've likely heard about the Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act, the law that provides protections for troops in a variety of ways, many of which apply to anyone who deploys.
How to handle yourself at ‘selling’ get-togethers
Listen up. In that tightly knit military community where you work and live, you may know spouses who sell kitchenware, jewelry, baskets, skin-care products and any other item imaginable.
11 ways to pay less at the pump
Listen up. Feeling the cash crunch of high gas prices?
Buying on credit isn’t ideal layaway alternative
Listen up. The Marine Corps Exchange has dropped its layaway program — one more example of a growing trend.
Learn how your insurance works — before you need it
Listen up. When you spend your hard-earned dollars on personal items, from a TV to clothes and dishes, you want to protect your investment in case something happens to your home, whether you own or...
Rewards program for exchange credit cards
Listen up. Do you rack up rewards points on your credit card when you make purchases? Like earning 1 percent or more cash back, or points toward free airline tickets?
Be careful with your power of attorney
Listen up. Do you know where your power of attorney is?
Don’t get trapped in a cell phone contract
Listen up. Choosing a cell phone company and deciphering cell phone contracts can be difficult at best. But cell phone contracts present even more challenges when you're in the military —...
Deployed? Make sure businesses treat you right
Listen up. Conducting personal business when you're deployed to Iraq can be a challenge.
Avoid payday loans; try your bank first
Listen up. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. is looking out for you, encouraging banks to offer affordable loans for the military community.

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2011 Insider's Guide To Military Benefits
This handbook for military life includes essential information on pay and benefits, housing, education, health care and more.