YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR MILITARY SPOUSE RESOURCES
Note: Military spouse resources continue to evolve as the needs of the community do as well. Be sure to check back from time to time as we continue to update this page with the tools you need to succeed.
Eight Top Military Spouse Resources You Need to Know
From navigating your benefits, to accessing military bases, and everything else that goes along with a life of service, there are several resources for military spouses available.
Keep in mind that while some of these military spouse resources may not meet your needs today, life changes and they may one day be something you’ll use in the future.
Of course, we here at MyBaseGuide pride ourselves on delivering military spouses resources they can trust. Here are a few other trusted sources you can utilize as well:
1. Military OneSource
Provided by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Military OneSource is an all-encompassing resource available for military families.
It’s virtually impossible not to find information, help, and support for a range of topics involving military life.
This even includes financial advice, tax-free services, and even a checklist for new military spouses.
2. MilitaryChildCare.com
Sponsored by the DoD, MilitaryChildCare.com (MCC) helps you find quality child care without the hassle.
MCC lets families search for child care near their home or work and request care anytime, from anywhere.
Not only is the DoD committed to providing affordable care around the world, but the programs are available during non-traditional hours and weekends to better assist your family.
You'll find different options depending on where you're stationed as well as various types of child care for both on and off-base options.
3. Homes.mil
When it comes to PCS resources, nobody has your back like MyBaseGuide with plenty of guides and helpful blogs to make your move as smooth as possible.
However, if you’re moving, the most important thing you’ll need is a place to live.
Homes.mil is affiliated with the DoD, so you can trust the listings and find the next place you’ll call home in one convenient place.
4. Exceptional Family Member Program
The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) provides families that have special needs with the tools and resources to meet them.
Online, you can use the EFMP&Me tool and find the right solutions near your base involving both medical and educational needs your family might have.
5. VA
Being in the military means getting familiar with the VA healthcare system, which operates a bit differently than the civilian options you may be used to.
Furthermore, understanding your VA benefits is equally important as they affect you and your dependents.
This includes healthcare but can also extend to education and even life insurance policies.
Furthermore, you’ll also need to understand how burial benefits and your benefits work in the unfortunate event in which you become a survivor.
No matter what, the VA is an important resource you need to keep in mind when navigating these complex topics. Their staff is available to help you make sense of it all.
6. TRICARE
Military families have access to the TRICARE healthcare system involving both physical and mental health needs.
Additionally, this resource for military spouses is important when it comes to coverage as TRICARE coverage is also offered to families who have someone serving and some retired military personnel.
7. Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS)/ID Card
Enrolling in DEERS is important because not only does it affect your benefits but you're also going to need to get checked in to access military bases.
In the same vein, you're going to need to visit your base's ID card office to get the credentials you need to access the post, exchanges, healthcare facilities, etc.
This is necessary for everyone in your family ages 14 and up. Be prepared to bring your marriage license, birth certificates, Social Security cards, etc. when you visit.
Schedule your appointments and, pro tip---you can typically knock out DEERS and get your ID simultaneously.
8. Additional Military Spouse Resources on Post
Similar to DEERS and the ID office, each base is going to have a lot of different facilities that can help you if you have questions, need something done, etc.
Depending on your base and branch, each service might have a different name but the idea is the same.
You’ll find family centers, assistance with finding employment, financial services, vets, healthcare facilities, legal resources, recreational centers, classes for hobbies, skill development opportunities, and much more.
At the top of the page, you’ll see a tab marked as “installations” offering plenty of base guides.
There you’ll find plenty of contact information for these resources available to you with just a few clicks.
Going Beyond the Top Military Spouse Resources
Having military resources for spouses is important but there are other things each milspouse should be aware of or consider:
Be sure to establish power of attorney so that you can do things you might otherwise need your spouse for while they are off training or deployed. Contact your base’s legal officer for more help.
Furthermore, keep all of your family’s emergency contact information and data up to date using DD Form 93.
Taxes work differently depending on where you live and for the military, there are even more considerations. Stay up to date with all of your tax information and receive help through the base’s legal office or by taking advantage of the Voluntary Income Tax Assistance program (VITA).
You’ll also want to be sure that you’re a beneficiary on your partner’s Servicemember Group Life Insurance (SGLI) policy.
Military spouse resources continue to evolve as the needs of the community do as well. Be sure to check back from time to time as we continue to update this page with the tools you need to succeed.
Suggested reads:
Fly High at the Palm Springs Air Museum
Military Enlistment Incentives: Your Guide to Bonuses, Pay & More
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