Benefits You Get as a Military Spouse

 

1. Military Pay and Allowances

While there is no specific military spouse pay, married service members receive Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) and Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) in addition to their base pay.

 

2. Educational Benefits

Military spouses have access to educational opportunities through programs like the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which allows service members to transfer their GI Bill benefits to their spouses or children. Additionally, the MyCAA Program offers up to $4,000 for spouses to pursue certifications or degrees.

 

3. Hiring Preference

The Military Spouse Hiring Preference program gives military spouses an advantage when applying for certain federal jobs, including civilian positions within the Department of Defense.

 

4. Health Care Insurance

Active service members receive health care through TRICARE, and this coverage extends to their dependents, including their spouse and biological or adopted children.

 

5. Travel Opportunities

While military life may require frequent moves to different cities or even countries, it also presents the chance to experience diverse locations worldwide. The Overseas Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA) provides additional compensation for spouses stationed overseas.

 

6. Military Recreation Benefits

Military Welfare and Recreation programs offer various facilities and activities, such as gyms, bowling alleys, and event centers, at more affordable prices than civilian alternatives.

 

7. Military Discounts

Numerous stores and restaurants offer year-round military discounts on their products and services. These discounts often extend to the spouses of service members, providing extra savings.

 

8. Marriage Counseling and Family Support

The Military and Family Life program (MFLC) offers counseling services to help spouses adjust to military life or navigate challenging periods in their marriage. The program ensures privacy and even arranges off-base meeting areas if preferred.

 

9. Standing Next to Your Hero

While it may sound cliché, being married to someone in the military means standing beside a partner who has dedicated their life to serving their country and building a life with you. Having a personal hero to look up to and share life's journey with can be truly meaningful.

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-FAQs

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What are the reasons for fast military marriages?

Fast military marriages often occur due to upcoming deployments or the need to secure benefits for the spouse, such as healthcare and housing allowances.

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What entitlements do military spouses receive?

Military spouses are entitled to various benefits, including healthcare coverage (TRICARE), access to base facilities, educational assistance (GI Bill and MyCAA Program), and hiring preferences for some federal jobs.

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How is military spouse pay handled?

There is no specific military spouse pay. However, married service members receive their base pay along with allowances such as Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS).

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What college opportunities are available for military spouses?

Military spouses can pursue college degrees or certifications through programs like the Post-9/11 GI Bill (transferred benefits) and the MyCAA Program, which provides financial support for education and career advancement.

 

Can military spouses travel with their partners?

Yes, military spouses can travel with their partners, especially during assignments or deployments. However, there may be logistical considerations and requirements for overseas travel.

 

Can military spouses live on base?

Yes, military spouses can live on base with their service member partner if housing is available. However, some couples may choose to live off-base depending on personal preferences and circumstances.

 

What employment options are available for military wives?

Military wives have various employment options, including finding jobs on or off base, remote work, freelance opportunities, or pursuing higher education while taking advantage of educational benefits.

 

Is there financial support available for military spouses?

Yes, financial support is available for military spouses through allowances, educational benefits, and special programs aimed at assisting military families during times of need.

 

Who is eligible for military spouse benefits?

Military spouse benefits are available to legally married spouses of active-duty service members or those in the Reserves or National Guard. The service member's marital status must be verified to access these benefits.

 

What is the "20/20/15 rule" for military divorces?

The "20/20/15 rule" refers to a condition that allows former military spouses to retain certain benefits after divorce. If the marriage lasted at least 20 years, the service member served for at least 20 years, and the marriage overlapped with the military service for at least 15 years, the ex-spouse may be eligible for certain benefits, such as healthcare under TRICARE.