Military and Veterans Benefits

VA Loan Eligibility and Service Requirements

Author: Ryan Guina Last Updated: August 6, 2019 Leave a Comment

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Getting approved for a VA home loan can be a lengthy, confusing, and frustrating process. When you’re in the midst of it, it can feel like you’re a show dog, being forced to jump through hoops. It’s so challenging, in fact, that many Americans give up on their dreams of owning a home and assume that they will only ever be able to rent. However, … [Read more...] about VA Loan Eligibility and Service Requirements

2019 Military Pay Charts – Officer and Enlisted Members Receive a 2.6% Raise

Author: The Military Guide Last Updated: July 9, 2019 2 Comments

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Military members will receive a nice pay raise in 2019, a 2.6% increase above 2018 pay rates. The 2.6% pay raise was the largest since 2010. The pay tables on this page went into effect on January 1, 2019, and were reflected in the first mid-month paycheck, which was sent out on January 15, 2019. Military members are paid in arrears, usually on … [Read more...] about 2019 Military Pay Charts – Officer and Enlisted Members Receive a 2.6% Raise

Military Burial Benefits – How to Apply for Military Funeral Honors

Author: Jes Naber Last Updated: August 6, 2019 3 Comments

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The average funeral costs somewhere between $7,000 and $9,000 when accounting for all costs. Sadly, at some point in our lives, this will become relevant to all of us. However, as a military member or veteran, you are eligible for military burial benefits when you pass away. In some cases, your spouse or dependents may also be eligible for burial … [Read more...] about Military Burial Benefits – How to Apply for Military Funeral Honors

How Much Is The COLA On My Military Pension?!?

Author: Doug Nordman Last Updated: September 16, 2020 3 Comments

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[September 2020 update: We have a new answer on this question! Financially, you'll get the biggest pension boost from retiring on 1 March of your chosen year. See the end of this post to download Douglas Fowler's research paper and review the math. You'll still have to pick the best date for your family, your bridge career, your travel plans, … [Read more...] about How Much Is The COLA On My Military Pension?!?

2018 Military Pay Charts – Officer and Enlisted Members Receive a 2.4% Raise

Author: The Military Guide Last Updated: July 9, 2019 Leave a Comment

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Military members received a 2.4% pay raise in 2018, a nice increase across the board from the 2017 pay rates. The 2.4% pay raise was the largest since 2010. The pay tables on this page went into effect on January 1, 2018, and were reflected in the first mid-month paycheck, which was sent out on January 15, 2018. Military members are paid on the … [Read more...] about 2018 Military Pay Charts – Officer and Enlisted Members Receive a 2.4% Raise

USAA’s Military Retirement Comparison Tool And The Blended Retirement System

Author: Doug Nordman Last Updated: December 16, 2018 12 Comments

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Are you ready to make your choice about the military's Blended Retirement System? Are you a leader who has to advise younger officers and enlisted how to decide between High Three and the BRS? Are you a veteran like me who's asked the question several times a week by their family (and their readers)? USAA can help with … [Read more...] about USAA’s Military Retirement Comparison Tool And The Blended Retirement System

How Much Is Your Military Pay Really Worth?

Author: Doug Nordman Last Updated: June 11, 2019 9 Comments

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This post is brought to you by Daniel Kopp, an Air Force officer and founder of MilitaryLifePlanning.com. If you're interested in contributing at The-Military-Guide.com, please see our posting guidelines. [Nords note: this post was updated on 4 March 2017 with a direct link to the DoD's PSMC website as well as a sample statement. Scroll down … [Read more...] about How Much Is Your Military Pay Really Worth?

Lower Life Insurance Premiums From USAA

USAA is cutting the rates on their new life insurance policies. Let me explain why in less than 1800 2000 words-- but it’s all good. I’ve learned a lot about insurance over the last 30 years, and it’s a necessary evil. We buy it to help ourselves (and our families) recover from disasters, and we only keep it as long as we need it. Everyone … [Read more...] about Lower Life Insurance Premiums From USAA

3 Steps to Retire Early on a Military Salary

Author: Doug Nordman Last Updated: June 27, 2018 16 Comments

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This post is brought to you by Rich of RichOnMoney! If you're interested in contributing at The-Military-Guide.com, please see our posting guidelines. BLUF: In college I paid off $32k in student loans in a year. On a military salary I paid off a $280k mortgage in seven years. I've bought several rental properties with cash. I did this … [Read more...] about 3 Steps to Retire Early on a Military Salary

2017 Military Pay Chart – 1.6% Pay Raise

Military members will receive a 1.6% Pay Raise in 2017. President Obama recently sent a letter to Congress echoing his support for the 1.6% military pay raise over the 2016 military pay. He states: This decision is consistent with my fiscal year 2017 Budget and it will not materially affect the Federal Government's ability to attract and retain … [Read more...] about 2017 Military Pay Chart – 1.6% Pay Raise