Hey folks! I've been thinking about joining the military after graduation, but I don't want to place financial burdens on my family. I heard a thing or two about something called 'family separation pay'. Can anyone expand on this? Like, how does it work and is it enough to help my folks while I'm away on deployment?
Yes, Family Separation Allowance (FSA) is a benefit provided to military personnel who have been separated from their family due to military orders. It's a form of supplemental compensation designed to address the increased living costs that can occur when a servicemember is on unaccompanied orders.
The FSA starts after a servicemember has been away from their dependents for more than 30 days. As of 2024, the monthly rate is $250, but it's important to know that the actual amount is subject to changes.
Also, keep in mind that FSA, while certainly helpful, is not designed to fully cover the cost of supporting a family during a deployment. It's intended more as a supplement to ease the added financial strains that come with being geographically separated.
By no means does it detract from the merits of serving in the military, but it's prudent to familiarize yourself with the financial implications to ensure your family's well-being. While FSA is a part of that, other benefits such as housing allowances, cost of living allowances, and tax advantages should also be considered as part of the bigger picture.
Lastly, it's a good idea to engage in financial planning prior to enlisting - setting a budget, saving, and possibly consulting with financial advisors can go a long way in making sure your family is taken care of while you serve.
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