Hello everyone! I've been exploring different paths after graduation and the military has come up a few times. My main concern is how it might impact my future spouse. Like, would the military cover travel expenses for my spouse if I were to get deployed?
The military does provide some financial support to service members and their families, but it's essential to remember that the nature of these benefits can vary significantly based on your specific situation.
Members of the military receive a basic housing allowance (BHA), which is to help cover the cost of housing for a spouse and family. You may also receive an overseas housing allowance (OHA) if you are stationed overseas.
Concerning travel expenses specifically, there isn't a standard policy that covers the travel expenses of a spouse due to deployment. The military does offer a range of relocation assistance services and programs if a service member is transferred or relocated, though. For instance, the Department of Defense has a program that helps families move themselves, called "Personally Procured Move (PPM)" where they reimburse up to 95 percent of what it would have cost them to move the items.
In the event of deployment, your spouse can also access various support services ranging from counselling to financial advice through Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) and Military Onesource.
Therefore, while the military may not directly cover travel expenses for a spouse during a deployment, there are several benefits and resources available to help ease financial burdens for service members and their families. Seek advice from your base’s family support center or legal advice center that can provide more accurate information based on your specific circumstances.
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