WASHINGTON — As the new year approaches, the U.S. Army is reinforcing its commitment to the financial well-being of its Soldiers and their families through enhanced resources and educational programs.
In a move to strengthen financial stability among its ranks, the Army is amplifying its financial readiness resources. This initiative aims to provide Soldiers and their families with comprehensive support, including access to high-quality food, financial education and free counseling services.
"With the new year upon us, it's an ideal time for our Soldiers to assess and enhance their financial health," said Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen, deputy chief of staff of G-9. "Understanding one's financial well-being is the first step toward effective budgeting and financial planning."
The Army's financial readiness resources encompass a range of services:
Free Financial Counseling: Soldiers can access free services to assist in creating spending plans and managing personal finances, including credit and debt.
Financial Education: The Army Family Web Portal hosts a variety of computer-based courses that offer insights into consumer affairs and personal financial management.
Nutritional Assistance: Programs like SNAP and WIC provide supplemental nutrition support for eligible families.
Basic Needs Allowance: This supplemental monthly allowance supports service members with dependents who qualify.
Affordable Meal Preparation: "Meals in Minutes" classes teach how to prepare nutritious meals affordably. On-post dining facilities offer discounted rates for spouses and dependents of Soldiers in certain pay grades.
In emergencies, Soldiers and their families have access to financial assistance through various Army programs. Secure the Financial Frontline and the Financial Readiness Program are valuable resources for financial literacy and support.
"The Army is not just committed to the battlefield readiness of our Soldiers, but also to their financial readiness," said Vereen. "Ensuring that they and their families are well-supported financially is paramount to our mission."
In 2024, the Army plans to expand these efforts by emphasizing financial security, healthy meal options and childcare access, and by reducing barriers to military spouse employment.
Outreach and information improvement are also on the agenda, with an emphasis on encouraging Soldiers and families to seek resources like credentialed personal financial managers and counselors. These services offer free, confidential, in-person financial counseling and literacy training.
"Our Soldiers and their families are our top priority," said Sgt. Maj. Michael Perry, senior enlisted advisor, G-9. "Improving their quality of life through these initiatives is essential to maintaining the strength and readiness of our Army."
For more information on the Army's financial readiness resources, Soldiers and their families are encouraged to visit www.FinancialFrontline.org, the resource locator library at https://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil/benefit-library/resource-locator, and Army Emergency Relief programs at https://www.armyemergencyrelief.org/offices/.
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