FEBRUARY 2026

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MilTax Free Filing

Enlist free one-on-one help from MilTax professionals. Service members, eligible family members, survivors and recent veterans can:

→ Use specialized software that accounts for the complexities of military life.
→ File federal and state tax returns in up to five states - at no charge.
→ Connect with a tax pro.

Make the Grade: Higher Education Resources

The U.S. Department of Education has a wide range of resources to help Service members, spouses and military-connected students make the grade - no pop quiz required. Explore the College Navigator tool to determine college costs, discover ways to pay for college and learn about military-specific benefits.

Volunteer Tax Assistance Program (VITA)

The VITA team is on your side. Get free and in-person help with tax preparation, tax advice and return filing, and other services. On-site professionals are available at select installations worldwide. If you don't find an installation listed, there may be an IRS VITA location in your community.  

For Service Members and Leaders

IRS Tax Scam: Watch Out for Impersonators

Arm yourself with knowledge and protect yourself from impersonators. This list from the IRS includes warning signs and common tax scams.

New: TSP Roth In-Plan Conversions

Available now! You have the option to convert a portion of money from your traditional (pre-tax) balance to your Roth (after-tax) balance in your TSP account. If you don’t have a Roth TSP balance, your first Roth in-plan conversion will create one.  

ICYMI: Roth TSP vs. Roth IRA

The last installment in a series of four bulletins from the Thrift Savings Plan outlines the difference between a Roth and Traditional TSP. Hint: Location. 

Catch up on what you may have missed:

→ Roth and traditional: What's the difference? (Taxes)
→ Roth in-plan conversion overview
→ Choosing the right tax treatment for you

Found Money: Make it Work for You

Found money is any unexpected financial boost that’s not part of your regular income stream. Hit pause before spending it. Used wisely, found money, like the one-time Warrior Dividend, offers an opportunity to accelerate financial goals and strengthen long-term readiness.  

For Military Financial Service Providers

The Future Self Tool

The new year is an opportunity to set goals, reevaluate choices and imagine the future. Individuals who feel strong connections with their future selves are more likely to make lasting financial choices. Help clients set financial goals that will help them live their dreams.

National Consumer Protection Week

The Federal Trade Commission has resources to help people understand their consumer rights and avoid frauds and scams.   

Upcoming Webinars

* Register Now! Supporting Military Couples Through Employment and Financial Transitions

Ethics in Action: Applying Ethical Standards in Financial Counseling

Ethical practice is essential to effective financial counseling education. Designed for financial counselors, educators, and military family service providers, this session examines the Military Standards of Ethical Conduct, the AFCPE Code of Ethics, financial disclosure requirements and federal gifting guidelines. 

For Military Spouses

Work From Home Tax Tips

*New* WIC Awareness Video

Military OneSource launched a new video highlighting the valuable support the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provides to military families, including access to healthy foods, nutrition education and breastfeeding support. 

Recycle Old Electronics

New year = clearing out clutter. The EPA offers updated details on how to properly dispose of and/or donate electronics.  

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Your Military Money: Financially Secure, Mission Ready is an official communication from the United States Government, brought to you each month by the DOW Office of Military Compensation and Financial Readiness. The Financial Readiness (FINRED) component oversees DOW-wide financial education and counseling programs, enabling Service members and military spouses to strengthen their personal financial well-being. FINRED also offers training and resources to financial service providers and leaders, keeping them informed of financial policies and laws.