Military life brings with it many changes -- some planned, others unexpected. Due to this, military spouses often face unemployment and underemployment. PCS orders, deployments or the arrival of a new baby can suddenly interrupt or even eliminate a stream of income you and your family were relying on.
When you’re depending on that paycheck to cover essentials like rent, car payments or groceries, losing it can turn your budget and world upside down. If you're in that situation right now, worried, unsure and asking yourself, “What do I do next?” you're not alone. There is a way forward.
What follows are some steps to guide you through what to do immediately and how to build a path to recovery. It's not about quick fixes. It’s about seeing things clearly, taking control and finding support through this season.
Read Next: How to Navigate Finances During a Permanent Change of Station
Pause and Get a Clear Picture
Before you start making decisions, take a moment to breathe. I know that’s easier said than done, but when you’re in the thick of it, stress and fear can cloud your judgment. Even though you’re in a difficult moment, you’re capable of handling it and there are resources to help.
Here’s what to do in the first 24-48 hours:
Assess the Situation
Write down how much monthly income was lost and when it stops. You may be scared to look at the number, but do it while scared. Knowing the numbers is the first step to solving the problem.
List Out Your Essential Expenses
Think: housing, utilities, groceries, insurance, transportation. What absolutely needs to be paid in the next 30 days?
Check Available Savings or Resources
Do you have an emergency fund? Is there a buffer in your checking account? Were you saving up for something that can be delayed, like a vacation? Every dollar counts and gives you time to plan.
Taking a calm and honest inventory creates a solid foundation for what comes next.
Create a Short-Term Game Plan
Once you understand your current cash flow, it’s time to take action. Within the first week, focus on short-term strategies to reduce financial strain and keep your household afloat.
1. Prioritize Essentials
Cut back on non-essentials, like subscriptions, entertainment or dining out, and redirect those resources toward the basics, like rent and groceries.
2. Call Your Creditors Before They Call You
If you’re going to have trouble making payments, especially on a car loan, credit card or personal loan, call the company right away. Ask whether they offer:
- Payment deferments or forbearance
- Temporary interest rate reductions
- Hardship programs
Most lenders appreciate proactive communication and may be more flexible than you think.
3. Tap into Military Relief Resources
Each branch has programs designed to help during times of financial crisis:
- Army Emergency Relief
- Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
- Air Force Aid Society
- Coast Guard Mutual Assistance
They may offer grants, zero-interest loans or referrals to additional support services, such as chaplains or local nonprofit organizations. Sometimes, it’s difficult for members of our community to reach out for assistance, but that’s what they're there for, and they want to help.
4. Check for Unemployment Benefits
Depending on your state, you may qualify for unemployment if your job loss is tied to a PCS or military relocation. Don’t assume you’re ineligible. Apply and let the state determine your eligibility.
5. Avoid Taking On New Debt
As you adjust your short-term plan, it may feel tempting to start charging everyday expenses to save money, but try to avoid it if possible. Taking on new debt, especially with high-interest credit cards, can create bigger problems down the road. It may feel like a quick fix, but those balances add up fast and can make recovery harder later. The goal right now is to stabilize your finances, not to dig a deeper hole.
Look for ‘Hidden’ Support in Your Military Community
Military life comes with built-in benefits that are easy to overlook during a crisis. Now is the time to make the most of them.
Save at the Commissary and Exchange
These savings can reduce your grocery bill while maintaining quality.
Use Tricare for Health Needs
Avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket costs by using your coverage effectively. Now is the time to make sure you are staying in-network.
Access Child-Care Assistance Programs
Whether it’s Child Development Centers (CDCs) on base, hourly care or fee assistance off base, look into options that may help if you need child care to go job hunting or work part time.
Find Help in the Local Military Community
Take advantage of resources within your off-base community to help you through. Tools like FindHelp.org will direct you to resources for food, housing and financial assistance in your local area.
Start Building Your Long-Term Income Recovery Plan
Once the short-term pressure is managed, shift your focus to what’s next and the road ahead. Your career might be on pause, but it’s not over. You’re just taking a knee to sort things out.
1. Explore Flexible and Remote Income Options
There are opportunities designed for the military lifestyle:
- Freelance writing or design
- Virtual assistant work
- Online tutoring or teaching
- Selling handmade or digital products
- Working for military spouse-friendly employers
2. Refresh Your Resume and LinkedIn
Even if you’re not ready to apply yet, updating your professional materials now will make it easier to say yes when the right opportunity comes.
3. Tap into Your Military Spouse Network
Other spouses understand this life better than anyone. Whether online or at your installation, you’ll find people who can connect you to jobs, recommend resources or just offer encouragement. Reach out on LinkedIn to schedule calls and connect.
Strengthen Your Financial Resilience for Next Time
No one can prevent every setback, but you can prepare to bounce back stronger. Use this experience as an opportunity to build greater financial resilience in the future.
Rebuild Your Emergency Savings
Even small, consistent deposits make a difference over time and can help you when unexpected expenses come up.
Diversify Household Income
Having multiple income streams, no matter how small, can provide more stability. Side hustles are great for generating additional income, offering flexibility and diversifying your income.
Reflect on What You’ve Learned
This experience can strengthen your decision-making, budgeting and confidence for whatever comes next. Apply the knowledge to the future.
You’re Not Alone or Powerless
Losing income as a military spouse can feel scary and unfair, especially when you’ve worked hard to build your career. But this is just one chapter, not the whole story. You are resilient, resourceful and capable of adapting to change.
You’ve navigated military life’s unknowns before (a lot!). You can do it again with more tools, a clearer plan and a stronger support system. Remember, help is out there, so take advantage of it.
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