If you’re feeling the pressure of paying down debt while also stepping into the role of caregiver for your parents, you’re not imagining it, this season is heavy.  People who find themselves “in the middle” of caring for both older and younger family members are part of what’s called the sandwich generation. And for many, the financial weight is compounded by years of doing […]

Paying down debt can bring a sense of relief. For many people, the next challenge is maintaining steady finances over time. Money choices, habits, and unexpected expenses can all shape how manageable things feel from month to month.  It can be helpful to look at what led to past debt and to build routines that make daily […]

If you’ve ever felt like you’re juggling more bills than balance, swiping your credit card with a silent promise to “figure it out later,” or watching social media influencers live lifestyles that seem miles ahead of your own, you’re not alone.  For many people, especially those who didn’t grow up seeing healthy money habits modeled at home, debt becomes the default. It’s familiar. It’s how we “keep […]

Key Takeaways  A good ending to someone’s life leaves minimal stress and confusion for others.  Estate planning is always easier with fewer possessions and financial accounts.  A net worth statement describes the assets and debts of a deceased or incapacitated person.  A digital assets inventory should be prepared to allow others access to online accounts.  […]

Divorce can reshape both your daily life and your finances. Many couples share accounts, debts, and long-term plans, so separating those pieces can feel complicated. Each state handles marital debt differently, and your income or expenses may look very different once the divorce is final.  There are still ways to steady your financial footing during this time. […]

Saving money can feel challenging, especially when everyday expenses take up more room in your budget than expected. Still, small changes in how you manage spending and set priorities may help you put money aside over time. With the right approach, you can build habits that support both short-term needs and long-term goals. The strategies below offer […]

Pay raises in uniform and in retirement are more than numbers on a Leave and Earnings Statement. They’re chances to change your financial trajectory, accelerate your goals, and buy back some of your future freedom. Each bump in basic pay, COLA increase, or BAH adjustment can quietly disappear into day-to-day spending—or it can become the fuel for debt reduction, […]

Reviewing your financial goals is one of the most valuable gifts you can give yourself, whether it’s at the start of a new year or anytime you need to evaluate your financial readiness. Taking time to evaluate where you stand—and where you want to go—turns vague hopes into clear goals and concrete action. A good review, once a year, covers your cash safety net, your day-to-day spending, […]

No one likes getting calls from debt collectors. And if you’ve already had the misfortune of dealing with one (or more than one), you already know that debt collection agencies will often call nonstop until you answer. But can debt collectors call on a Sunday?  The short answer, unfortunately, is yes, they can. However, there are legal […]

Military aid societies are some of the most powerful – and least understood – tools in the military community. Organizations like NavyMarine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), Army Emergency Relief (AER), Air Force Aid Society (AFAS), and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) stand ready to step in when a financial emergency hits, and they rely on the generosity of that same community when times are […]