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MilSpouse Money Mission eNewsletter: March 2025 Edition

Department of Defense Financial Readiness Program sent this bulletin at 03/11/2025 11:07 AM EDT

Mil Spouse Money Mission - Educate, Empower, Elevate

March 2025

Navigate Tax Season While Preparing for Summer

March is a season of change with spring on the horizon and summer around the corner. While it's fun to get caught up in planning family vacations and enjoying warmer weather, it's also time to wrap up your taxes. While those topics couldn’t feel more different, we’re here to help you navigate both worlds. Here are five steps to tackle taxes like a boss and set up your summer for financial success.

National Credit Education Month

It's National Credit Education Month, a great time to tune into our video series and refresh your credit knowledge. Learn how to improve your credit score and discover the pros and cons of credit cards. And don't forget your ABCs: A) Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to obtain a copy of your credit report. B) Begin a thorough review to ensure your personal information and accounts are accurate. C) Check your credit report at least once a year.

Don’t Miss Out: HCFSA Enrollment Ends Soon

Don't let this opportunity slip away! If you're interested in saving money on out-of-pocket medical, dental and vision expenses, consider enrolling in a Health Care Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA). This pre-tax, optional benefit can provide significant savings for you and your family. Discuss it with your spouse and take action before the HCFSA Special Enrollment Period ends on March 31. If you miss this deadline, you’ll have to wait until the next Federal Benefits Open Season in November.

How to Tell a Legit Multi-Level Marketing Company From a Scam

Have you been to any direct sales parties recently? They offer a fun way to see your friends and try products, but do your research. Many multi-level marketing companies target military spouses. They sell a dream of flexible work schedules, then leave their distributors in debt. Learn to spot the difference between a legitimate opportunity and a pyramid scheme in this FINRED blog.

Video Game Safety

If you have teens or preteens, odds are they probably love video games. They can be a fun way to connect with friends and let imaginations run free. Unfortunately, many games make it easy for kids to run up hefty bills buying new characters and worlds — charges that are automatically deducted from your bank account. Scammers and predators also lurk on many gaming sites. This guide from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will help you keep your kids (and your wallet) safe as they enjoy their favorite activity. For example, the FTC advises checking if ads in the game lead to more mature, dangerous content. It also suggests watching online videos of people playing a game to see if it’s really something you’re comfortable with.

Did You Know?

MilSpouses are eligible for scholarships, stipends, tuition waivers or discounts, and workforce development or certification programs from major universities; professional organizations; and Federal, state and local governments. Learn more from the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) website and discover other ways SECO can kickstart your education or job search.

Resources

Join the Mission!

MilSpouse Money Mission® is an official communication from the United States Government, brought to you by the Department of Defense Office of Financial Readiness. It offers free personal financial education specifically designed for military spouses. Learn how we can serve you — and share this DoD resource with your friends.

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