Your service relief organization may be able to help if you find yourself in a serious financial bind. Army Emergency Relief, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, and the Air Force Aid Society exist to help you deal with financial emergencies.
Depending on the circumstances, service relief organizations provide emergency financial help with interest-free loans, grants or a combination of loans and grants. Sometimes they also offer financial preparedness counseling and tuition assistance.
Loans and grants
Most loans and grants from military relief organizations are for one-time financial needs such as:
- Rent
- Utilities
- Vehicle repair
- Emergency travel
- Funeral expenses
- Some medical and dental expenses
Each organization limits the kinds of financial expenses it will cover. For example, fines and legal expenses, buying a home or vehicle, or other nonessentials aren't covered.
Service websites
Go to your service relief organization's website to learn more about eligibility and how to apply for aid:
If your relief organization isn't nearby, one of the other service relief organizations can help process your request. If no military relief organizations are near you, the local Red Cross chapter can process your request. You can also reach out to your installation's Family Readiness Center for help with finding more support organizations and community resources, and for deployment support and family support.
If you're having trouble making your home payments and are worried about foreclosure, contact Military OneSource for no-cost, confidential financial counseling. Get mortgage information by visiting the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's "Ask CFPB," and listen to these podcasts to help you avoid foreclosure scams: Foreclosure Rescue Scams and Foreclosure Rescue Scams: Red Flags and Real Help.