The Military Leaders Economic Security Toolkit, available on the Military OneSource website, provides updated resources and support related to economic security. It includes information on policy changes and financial assistance options.
Unemployment Benefits
- Furloughed employees may apply for unemployment benefits through the state where they last worked.
- Excepted employees who are still working full-time are typically ineligible.
- If retroactive pay is granted, employees must repay any unemployment benefits they received, as required by state law.
- Guidance is available through the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees.
Personal Financial Readiness
The Military and Family Readiness Center offers free counseling, education, and training to improve financial literacy. The Department of the Air Force has expanded the availability of Personal Financial Managers to help service members and their families strengthen money management skills.
The Air Force Aid Society continues to provide emergency financial assistance, including:
- Basic living expenses (food, rent/mortgage, utilities)
- Vehicle costs (payments, repairs, insurance)
- Childcare costs
If local aid centers are unavailable, Airmen, Guardians, and families may also seek help from the Red Cross.
Many banks and credit unions (such as USAA, Navy Federal, and Marine Federal) may advance military pay during shutdowns. Members should check with their banks for specific policies.
Food Insecurity
Military and Family Readiness Centers, along with first sergeants, can assist with food-related grants and loans, including referrals to:
- USDA Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Federal Subsistence Supplemental Allowance (FSSA)
- Air Force Aid Society support
Additionally, the Basic Needs Allowance (BNA), established by the FY22 National Defense Authorization Act, supplements income for service members whose household income is below 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
TRICARE Health Coverage
- TRICARE will continue delivering health care to its 9.4 million beneficiaries.
- Care at military hospitals and clinics will remain largely unaffected.
- Private providers serving TRICARE patients should also continue without interruption.
- The TRICARE website provides up-to-date information on shutdown impacts.
Commissaries and Local Services
- Commissaries overseas and in remote locations may have modified operations.
- Non-appropriated fund services may continue in some areas.
- Families should check local installation websites for updates on services and plan ahead to minimize disruptions.
