OCTOBER 23, 2025 – Government shutdowns create unique challenges for military families who live on tight budgets, frequently relocate, and manage the constant demands of military service. While the uncertainty can feel overwhelming, following these five strategies can help you navigate the crisis with confidence.
Keep Perspective.
This financial disruption will end, just as the previous 22 government shutdowns over the past 50 years have resolved. Therefore, maintaining a calm, steady outlook helps you make better decisions and provides stability for your family and community during uncertain times.
Communicate Proactively.
You are not alone. You should immediately reach out to your bank, creditors, landlords, and your chain of command. Many financial institutions offer zero or low-interest loans for military members with direct deposit. To obtain one of these loans, you must explain your situation to creditors and landlords to negotiate payment delays or modified terms. Afterward, your leadership can connect you with resources and solutions, especially if you’re facing unique circumstances like permanent change of station (PCS) moves, medical expenses, or family emergencies. Document all communications and track which bills you’ve prioritized versus postponed because eventually all of them will need to be paid.
Tap Into Military-Specific Resources.
The military community offers extensive support networks designed specifically for situations like this. Military relief societies, including the Army Emergency Relief (AER); Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS); Air Force Aid Society (AFAS); and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA), stand ready to provide assistance. If you use the Military Star Credit Card at commissaries in October, your purchases are interest-free for three months. MilitaryOneSource.com offers free financial counseling, and Armed Forces Mutual and others provide helpful advice and support in this time of uncertainty.
Protect Yourself from Scams.
Unfortunately, financial stress attracts predators. Stay vigilant and avoid get-rich-quick schemes, payday loans with predatory interest rates, and “too good to be true” deals. Never share personal information with unsolicited callers or unverified organizations. Always work only with reputable, verified organizations and promptly report suspicious activity to authorities.
Focus on What You Can Control.
Use this moment to reassess your financial priorities. Take advantage of free or low-cost activities like installation gyms and recreation centers, local parks and community events, on-post libraries and family programs, and community fairs and festivals. In addition, review your budget to cancel unused streaming services, eliminate unnecessary subscriptions, and identify discretionary spending to reduce. Building these habits now will strengthen your finances after the crisis passes.
Government shutdowns, unexpected deployments, and emergency expenses are realities of military life. Use this experience to strengthen your financial foundation by building an emergency fund; even small amounts add up over time. Create a crisis response plan so you know your resources before you need them. Practice living below your means to create flexibility when income is disrupted, and stay connected to your military community because support networks are your greatest asset.
Financial readiness is mission readiness. By preparing for the unexpected, you ensure your family can weather any storm with resilience and confidence.
By Michael Meese, President at American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association