Fort Benning Finance: Managing Finances for Soldiers and Families

Fort Benning, a major U.S. Army installation located in Georgia, provides a comprehensive range of financial services to its soldiers, families, and civilian employees. These services are crucial for promoting financial readiness, stability, and security within the military community.

Key Financial Services Offered

Several organizations and departments on Fort Benning contribute to financial well-being. Here’s an overview:

• Army Community Service (ACS): ACS offers financial counseling, budgeting workshops, debt management assistance, and credit repair guidance. These programs are designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions.
• Financial Readiness Program: This program, also under ACS, focuses on building long-term financial health. Services include one-on-one financial counseling, workshops on topics like investing and retirement planning, and resources for saving and managing money effectively.
• Credit Unions and Banks: Multiple credit unions and banks have branches on or near Fort Benning, providing convenient access to traditional banking services like checking accounts, savings accounts, loans, and credit cards. They often offer specialized services tailored to the needs of military members, such as early direct deposit and competitive interest rates.
• Pay and Entitlements: The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is responsible for processing military pay and entitlements. Soldiers can access their pay statements, make changes to their allotments, and manage their tax withholdings through DFAS online portals. Fort Benning personnel provide local support for pay-related issues and questions.

Specific Financial Challenges Faced by Soldiers

Military life presents unique financial challenges. Frequent moves, deployments, and variable income streams can make budgeting and financial planning difficult. Soldiers may also be vulnerable to predatory lending practices and scams targeting military members.

Fort Benning’s financial programs address these challenges by providing education and resources to help soldiers:

• Create and maintain a budget.
• Manage debt effectively.
• Save for retirement and other long-term goals.
• Protect themselves from financial scams.
• Understand their pay and entitlements.

Importance of Financial Readiness

Financial readiness is a critical component of overall readiness for soldiers and their families. When individuals are financially stable, they are less stressed and better able to focus on their duties and responsibilities. Financial readiness also contributes to retention rates and the overall effectiveness of the military.

Fort Benning recognizes the importance of financial readiness and is committed to providing comprehensive financial services to its community. By offering education, counseling, and access to financial resources, Fort Benning helps soldiers and families build a secure financial future.