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Your Military Money

June 2025

Use These Tips to Prep for PCS

Simplify your PCS move with a customized checklist. Keep track of everything from updating your address with your credit card company to canceling your gym membership. Follow these six guidelines to help you create your own.

News

Moving Claims
If your possessions become lost or damaged in transit during a PCS, you have 180 days from the delivery date to give notice of a loss and nine months to file a claim. Damaged items may need to be inspected. Read more.

Student Aid
Are you or a family member in college or trade school? Free Applications for Federal Student Aid (FAFSAs) for the 2024-2025 school year must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on June 30. You have until Sept. 13 to make changes. Apply now.

Sick of Hidden Fees?
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) now requires sellers to include fees in upfront prices, so the next time you purchase concert tickets or book a hotel room, your total should be transparent. Get the details.

Telltale Signs of a Scam Text Message

A few years ago, it was easier to detect a scam text. Bogus messages were filled with awkward phrasing, grammatical errors and punctuation mistakes. But message generators powered by artificial intelligence (AI) have made it easier for scammers to create more polished texts. The next time you get a text message from an unknown person, use these hints to help you determine if it's fake or real.

Prepare for Financial Storms With This Fund

Although you can't predict when a hurricane, tornado or severe thunderstorm will damage your home or vehicle, you can prepare for expensive repairs now by regularly setting money aside in a rainy day account. This guide has six helpful steps you can use to set up your emergency fund.

Understanding Mortgages 101

If you're in the market for a new home this summer, check out this informative six-minute video on mortgages. Join this military couple as they take a virtual reality trip through their financing options. Learn about three types of loans and factors to consider when selecting a loan. You'll also pick up valuable insights on how to determine the loan type and terms that best fit your individual needs and budget.

Did You Know?

Join the DoD FINRED community on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn for helpful financial tips and resources designed specifically for military families.

Resources

• FTC: Discover three ways to block spam text messages.

• MilSpouse Money Mission: Review your spending plan and insurance coverage after a PCS move.
  
  
• FINRED: Estimate mortgage points and closing costs with these calculators.

ABOUT US

Your Military Money is an official communication from the United States Government, brought to you each month by the Department of Defense Office of Financial Readiness. FINRED oversees DoD-wide financial literacy programs and education, enabling Service members and families to strengthen their personal financial well-being.