Credit and Finances
Personal finance insight and advice for Veterans, service members and their families
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VA Disability Pay Charts for 2024VA disability pay for 2024 increased by 3.2%. New VA disability compensation rates take effect December 1, 2023. Below are the 2024 rates and a VA disability payment calculator to quickly determine your disability compensation. -
Should I Stay or Should I Go? Costs of Leaving the MilitaryIs leaving the service the right thing for you to do? Here's a look at the financial pros and cons of staying in the military vs. leaving. -
How to Improve Your Credit with a Personal LoanIf applying for a credit card to improve your credit isn't an option, you can still boost your score in other ways. Personal loans may help improve bad credit and pay off debt. -
What is Credit and Why It’s ImportantExplore the critical role of credit and why it is important when buying a house. Learn how a strong credit score can unlock lower interest rates, better loan terms, and financial flexibility. -
How to Improve Your Credit Score to Buy a HouseDiscover strategies to improve your credit score with our in-depth guide. Understand how timely payments, debt management and credit history can all influence your mortgage approval. -
What is a Credit Report and What's on it?Explore the world of credit reports. Discover the purpose of a credit report, what information it contains, and how it impacts your financial well-being. -
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) & VA LoansThe Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is a federal law providing various civil and financial protections for active duty military members. According to the Supreme Court, these safeguards are to be implemented with "an eye friendly to those who dropped their affairs to answer their country's call." -
CAIVRS: How Default on Federal Debt Impacts Your VA LoanIn a perfect world, your financial slate is clean when you're ready to purchase a home using your VA loan benefits. But problems with one type of debt in particular—federal debt—can force you to put your homeownership plans on hold. -
How Child Support Can Affect Your VA LoanChild support can help or hinder your chances of getting a VA home loan. See how it can be either potential income or a liability depending on your role. -
How Military Allotments Affect Your CreditPaycheck allotments and automatic payments are useful budgeting tools, but they still require your attention to avoid credit-harming errors.
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The Leave and Earnings Statement ExplainedThe Military Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) is a powerful tool in understanding a service member's pay and benefits, budgeting and planning for the future. -
Which States Do Not Tax Military Retirement?Military retirement is taxable, but whether or not you have to pay it differs depending on the state where you live. As of 2023, California is the only state that taxes military retirement pay at the typical income tax rate. -
Unemployment Benefits for Military SpousesLearn about your options for military spouse unemployment benefits and how to secure the support you need.
