Military Life and Money

Personal finance guidance for active duty military and veterans

Life as a member of the military, and later as a veteran, comes with a unique set of financial concerns. You have access to benefits that civilians don’t. But navigating programs, such as the GI Bill and a VA home loan, isn’t a simple process. As well, there are credit cards, banks, credit unions and financial assistance programs just for you. Click on a link below for stories and tips for all phases of your financial life.

Banking and Credit

Best Military Banks and Credit Unions

Best Military Banks and Credit Unions

NerdWallet rounds up the best banks and credit unions
for people with military ties

Credit Card Benefits for Active Duty Military

Some credit card companies offer perks for those currently serving their country

New card in town

Best USAA Credit Cards

USAA caters to military personnel and it offers several credit card choices

Best Credit Card to Rebuild Credit in the Military

If your credit is bad and you want to turn a corner, this secured card may help


Making Ends Meet

How to Financially Transition From Military to Civilian Life

How to Financially Transition from Military to Civilian Life

10 steps to ease your move out of active-duty status

Law Helps Active-Duty Military Pay Down Debt for Less

How the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act can help you manage debt

3 Debt Protections for Members of the Military

Your rights when it comes to debt collection

goodbudget-app-review

How to Build a Budget

A lesson in the basics of money management


Going to College

Applying to Collete: 6 Tips for Veteran Students

Applying to College: 6 Tips for Veteran Students

What you need to know to get started on college plans

Veterans United Review 2017

5 Ways to Maximize Your GI Bill Benefits

How to get the most out of this military benefit

Vets: What to Do When the GI Bill Won't Pay for College

What to Do When the GI Bill Won’t Cover College

Here’s how to avoid running out of GI Bill coverage

10 Top Scholarships for Children of Veterans

10 Top Scholarships for Children of Veterans

Find money for your child’s college education


Buying a Home

VA Loan Eligibility and Requirements

VA Loan Eligibility Requirements

How to qualify for and get a home loan from the Department of Veterans Affairs

Best Mortgage Lenders for First-Time Home Buyers

VA Mortgage Rates

Compare VA loan rates across lenders by your location and down payment

VA Mortgage Loan Calculator

VA Home Loans: What You Need to Know

A primer on the ins and outs of VA mortgages

Veterans United

Veterans United Home Loans Review

See how this VA mortgage lender measures up



Starting a Business

3 Smart Business Ideas for Veterans

3 Smart Business Ideas for Veterans

Your military-earned skills could pay off in one of these businesses

Best Small-Business Loans for Veterans 2016

Best Small-Business Loans for Veterans

Your business needs funding — here are some of the best loan options

Small-Business Grants for Veterans

Small-Business Grants and Resources for Veterans

See funding and support options for those who have served their country

5 Innovative Veteran-Owned Businesses

Find inspiration in veterans’ small-business stories


Additional Resources