Military - Resources

Building Wealth

A Financial Plan is Essential to Your Future
The following are some helpful resources to get you started on that future:

• AmeriForce Media – A publisher of free military guides and magazines that focus on a range of military topics, including deployment, finance, family and more.

Joining the Military

Thinking About Joining the Armed Forces?
There are many pros and cons to consider. Rod Powers, a retired Air Force First Sergeant with 22 years of active duty service, has written a helpful online series, titled "What the Recruiter Never Told You", to ensure every candidate makes an informed and committed decision.

Reintegration

Dealing with Trauma
The effects of traumatic experience can stay with us for a long time. Issues related to the occurrence can surface months, or years, later. You may find yourself suddenly quick to anger or avoiding people and places that remind you of that traumatic event. You may always be on your guard or easy to startle.

Fortunately, there is a wealth of helpful resources available, including:

• U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Crisis Hotline – Call 1.800.273.8255 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online 24/7 to speak with a caring, qualified responder.
• Settling Down After Life in the Military – An informative online article containing a wealth of resources covering all facets of day-to-day civilian life.
• Best Jobs for Returning Service Members – An online blog post focused solely on how to translate acquired military skills into the civilian job market. 
• Give an Hour – A non-profit network of volunteers dedicated to meeting the mental health needs of the troops and families.
• Vietnam Veterans of America – A guide to submitting a claim for benefits based on exposure to psychologically traumatic events during military service.

Retirement

Collecting Your Retirement Pension
What's the earliest age a military retiree can collect a regular retirement pension? The answer: 37 years old. But the most important question is: Are you financially ready to retire? There are so many things to consider, including health care, benefits, civilian employment and more. Military.com has a wealth of informative resources to help you on your retirement journey.

Additional Resources:

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Contains useful pension benefits information.
• VA Form Directory – A listing of VA forms.