Military & Federal Benefits + Housing Resource Center
Added Benefit for Military
Military Relocation Is Personal to Me
As an Air National Guard Finance Veteran, volunteer, Independent Military Financial Counselor, and Realtor, serving military families isn’t just what I do — it’s who I am.
With over 30 years of military finance experience, I understand how overwhelming a relocation can feel. A PCS, separation, or retirement isn’t just a move — it’s a life transition. Questions about pay, allowances, benefits, and budgeting can create unnecessary stress during a time that already demands so much from you and your family.
My role is to bring clarity and calm to the process.
Whether you’re navigating your first PCS, transitioning mid-career, or planning retirement, I help you understand your pay and entitlements so you can make informed, confident decisions. When you know what to expect financially, uncertainty fades — and you can focus on what matters most: your mission and your family.
Let’s make your next home not just a house — but a secure, smart investment you feel good about. A home that fits your budget, supports your goals, and gives you peace of mind.
When the financial side makes sense, everything else becomes easier.
I can also help you explore the different areas of Jacksonville and surrounding communities until you find the place that truly feels like home.
How I Support Military Families:
- Orders review and financial impact
- Military pay and allowances
- Travel pay guidance
- PCS planning
- DITY move procedures and cost comparisons
- Household goods allowances
- JTR / JFTR interpretation
- Coordination with Transportation, Finance, and HR offices
- Retirement pay planning
- And the questions you didn’t even know you needed to ask
You’ve served. You’ve sacrificed. You deserve a smooth transition and a home decision made with confidence.
I’m here to walk that journey with you.
VA Loans: NO MONEY DOWN! NO PMI!
One of the most widely used benefits for service members and veterans outside the gates is the VA Home Loan. With this benefit, eligible borrowers can purchase a home with no down payment and no requirement for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), which saves money compared to conventional loans. PMI protects the lender—not you—if a borrower defaults, and does not pay benefits to your family; separate mortgage protection insurance is still recommended if you want to protect your loved ones in the event of an untimely death.
While not having to make a down payment can be appealing, it’s not always the best financial choice for everyone, especially since VA loans historically have had higher default rates than some other loan types. Making sure you can comfortably afford your monthly payments and have a long-term housing plan is key.
I’ve recently added a new lender to my resources who offers VA loans with no specific minimum credit score requirement, as long as you’ve been current on your payments for the past 12 months. Even if you’ve had past late or outstanding payments due to extenuating circumstances, you may still be able to qualify—let’s discuss your situation.
With rising interest rates and inflation, many lenders are bracing for possible mortgage defaults. If you’re struggling, you don’t have to wait for a default—there may be options to protect your credit and your home equity. Downsizing now could help you access that equity to pay bills and move into a more affordable home with a new VA loan.
Preferred Lenders
Florida Mortgage Brokerage Inc.
Chad Murphy
Mortgage Loan Originator
NMLS #681628
904.566.8825
chad@mortgagebrokerassociation.com
Edge Home Finance
Kayla Worley
Mortgage Professional
NMLS#2152798
706.988.0868
kayla.worley@edgehomefinance.com
First Coast Mortgage Funding
Kassidy Thomas
Mortgage Professional
NMLS #: 1672463
260.901.1315
Financial Education for Military Families
MilSpouse Money Mission® is a free financial education resource designed to empower military spouses with the knowledge and tools to make smart money decisions throughout life’s milestones. From budgeting and debt management to retirement planning and investment basics, the site offers guides, videos, calculators, and
VA Hospitals & Veteran Health Services
Apply & Manage Veteran Benefits at eBenefits
Apply & Manage Veteran Benefits at eBenefits
Apply & Manage Veteran Benefits at eBenefits
eBenefits is an online portal that allows veterans, service members, and their families to apply for, track, and manage VA benefits in one secure location. Through the platform, users can submit disability claims, check claim status, update personal information, access important documents, and review compensation and pension details. Designed for convenience and accessibility, eBenefits gives veterans greater control and visibility over their earned benefits anytime, anywhere.
The National Resource Directory (NRD)
Apply & Manage Veteran Benefits at eBenefits
The National Resource Directory (NRD) is a comprehensive online resource connecting service members, veterans, wounded warriors, caregivers, and their families to trusted federal, state, and nonprofit support services. The directory provides access to programs covering employment, education, housing, health care, financial assistance, and more. Designed to simplify the search for benefits and community resources, the NRD serves as a centralized hub to help military-connected individuals find the support they need — quickly and confidently.
Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP)
The Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP) is a VA-supported initiative designed to help veterans receive their federal benefits safely and securely through direct deposit. For veterans who may not have a traditional bank account, VBBP connects them with participating financial institutions that offer low-cost checking accounts and financial services tailored to their needs. The program promotes financial stability, reduces reliance on paper checks, and helps protect veterans from fraud while ensuring faster access to their earned benefits.
Manage Your Health Care Benefits
TRICARE Medical, Dental & Pharmacy — View and Update Your Information
TRICARE beneficiaries can access and manage key health care details online through secure military health portals, including medical, dental, and pharmacy information. By logging into authorized platforms such as the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal — the Department of Defense’s secure health record system — you can view your medical and dental records, schedule appointments, request prescription refills, and communicate with your health care team 24/7. For enrollment changes, coverage updates, or to verify TRICARE benefits, you can use the milConnect / Beneficiary Web Enrollment tools to review and update your information as needed.
Official link: Typically accessed through the TRICARE secure portal pages or the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal login found via https://tricare.mil/GettingCare/VirtualHealth/SecurePatientPortal (or by searching “TRICARE Patient Portal” on tricare.mil).
VA Careers & Employment — Support for Veterans
The VA Careers & Employment resource (https://www.va.gov/careers-employment/) helps veterans, transitioning service members, and their families explore career opportunities, employment resources, and job-readiness support. The site offers tools for resume building, job matching, training programs, federal employment guidance, and connections to local workforce partners. Whether you’re entering the civilian workforce, seeking advancement, or exploring federal employment options, this resource provides practical support to help you navigate your next career steps with confidence.
Local VA Hospitals & Veteran Health Services
If you are a veteran or military family member in Northeast Florida, the following VA medical facilities and support centers provide comprehensive health care, counseling, and benefits assistance.
🏥 VA Medical Facilities – Jacksonville Area
Facility
Jacksonville VA Outpatient Clinic
1536 N Jefferson St, Jacksonville, FL 32209
904-475-5800
Primary care, specialty care, mental health, dental, lab services
Jacksonville North VA Clinic
145 Heron Bay Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218
904-470-6900
Outpatient medical care, rehabilitation, therapy services
Jacksonville 2 VA Clinic
3901 University Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-732-6300
Primary care and outpatient services
Malcom Randall VA Medical Center (Gainesville – Main Hospital)
1601 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL 32608
352-376-1611
Full-service VA hospital, emergency care, specialty services
🧠 Veteran Counseling & Readjustment Support
Facility
Jacksonville Vet Center
3728 Philips Hwy #31, Jacksonville, FL 32207
904-399-8351
Combat veteran counseling, PTSD support, family counseling, readjustment services
📋 Veterans Benefits Assistance
Jacksonville Veterans Services Office
117 W Duval St #175, Jacksonville, FL 32202 904-255-5550
VA claims assistance, benefits guidance, local veteran support programs
CHAMPVA — Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs
CHAMPVA — Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs
CHAMPVA — Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs
CHAMPVA (Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs) is a comprehensive health care benefits program for certain spouses, surviving spouses, and dependent children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected condition, or who died from a service-connected disability. Under CHAMPVA, eligible family members can receive coverage for inpatient and outpatient care, prescription medications, durable medical equipment, mental health services, and more. It serves as a valuable supplement or alternative when TRICARE is not available, helping families access the care they need with financial support from the VA.
DOD Pay and Benefits
Active Duty Pay Tables
National Guard Family Program – Benefits Guide
National Guard Family Program – Benefits Guide
Active Duty Pay Tables provide the official monthly base pay rates for U.S. military service members based on rank and years of service. Updated annually by the Department of Defense, these tables outline standard compensation before allowances such as BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing), BAS (Basic Allowance for Subsistence), special pays, and other entitlements are added. Reviewing current pay tables helps service members understand their earning structure, plan financially for promotions or PCS moves, and make informed decisions about budgeting, career progression, and long-term financial goals.
Official pay tables can be found through the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) website.
National Guard Family Program – Benefits Guide
National Guard Family Program – Benefits Guide
National Guard Family Program – Benefits Guide
The National Guard Family Program Benefits Guide is a comprehensive resource designed to support National Guard service members and their families before, during, and after deployments. This guide outlines available federal and state benefits, including health care, financial assistance, education programs, family readiness services, and transition support. It serves as a centralized reference to help Guard families understand their entitlements, navigate available resources, and access the programs that strengthen resilience and readiness throughout every stage of service.
TSP Information (Military 401K equivilant)
National Guard Family Program – Benefits Guide
The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is the federal government’s retirement savings program for service members and federal employees. Often referred to as the military’s version of a 401(k), TSP allows active duty, Reserve, and National Guard members to contribute a portion of their pay toward long-term retirement savings.
Under the Blended Retirement System (BRS), eligible service members receive government matching contributions, making TSP one of the most powerful wealth-building tools available during a military career. Participants can choose between Traditional (pre-tax) and Roth (after-tax) contributions and invest in a variety of funds based on risk tolerance and retirement timeline.
Understanding how TSP works — including contribution limits, matching rules, fund options, and withdrawal strategies — is essential to building a strong retirement foundation both during and after military service.
SGLI Service Group Life Insurance
VGLI Veterans Group Life Insurance
Service Members’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is a low-cost term life insurance program available to eligible active duty members, National Guard, and Reserve service members. Coverage is provided in increments up to $500,000 and is designed to offer financial protection to a member’s designated beneficiaries in the event of death while in service.
SGLI coverage is automatic for most service members, though individuals may elect to reduce or decline coverage if desired. The program also includes options such as Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI), which provides financial assistance if a member experiences a qualifying severe injury.
SGLI provides essential financial security during military service, helping ensure that loved ones are protected during times of uncertainty.
VGLI Veterans Group Life Insurance
VGLI Veterans Group Life Insurance
VGLI Veterans Group Life Insurance
Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) allows service members to convert their Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage to renewable term life insurance after separation or retirement from the military. It provides continued life insurance protection without requiring proof of good health if applied for within the designated time frame after leaving service.
Eligible veterans can obtain coverage up to the amount they had under SGLI (maximum limits apply), and coverage can be increased in increments at certain intervals. Premiums are based on age and increase over time.
VGLI offers a valuable continuation option for veterans who want to maintain life insurance coverage during the transition to civilian life, ensuring ongoing financial protection for their families.
SBP - Survivor Benefit Plan
VGLI Veterans Group Life Insurance
VGLI Veterans Group Life Insurance
The Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) is a Department of Defense program that allows military retirees to provide continued income to eligible beneficiaries after their death. Instead of benefits stopping at retirement, SBP ensures that a portion of the retiree’s monthly retired pay continues to a spouse, former spouse, children, or other eligible dependents.
At retirement, service members may elect to participate in SBP, choosing a coverage level based on their retired pay. If elected, monthly premiums are deducted from retirement pay, and in return, beneficiaries receive a lifetime annuity (typically up to 55% of the selected base amount).
SBP is designed to provide long-term financial stability and income protection for surviving family members, helping replace a portion of lost retired pay and offering peace of mind during retirement planning.
DIC – Dependency and Indemnity Compensation
Education Benefits for Dependents of 100% Disabled Veterans
Education Benefits for Dependents of 100% Disabled Veterans
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monthly benefit paid by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to eligible surviving spouses, children, and in some cases parents, of service members who died in the line of duty or veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected disability.
DIC is not based on income. Instead, eligibility is determined by the veteran’s service record and the connection between their death and military service. Surviving spouses may also qualify if the veteran was rated totally disabled due to service-connected conditions for a specific period prior to death.
This benefit is designed to provide ongoing financial support and stability to surviving family members, recognizing the sacrifice made in service to the nation.
Education Benefits for Dependents of 100% Disabled Veterans
Education Benefits for Dependents of 100% Disabled Veterans
Education Benefits for Dependents of 100% Disabled Veterans
If a veteran is rated 100% Permanent & Total (P&T) by the VA due to service-connected disabilities, their eligible dependents may qualify for valuable education benefits through the DEA – Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35) program.
What Is DEA (Chapter 35)?
The Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program provides financial support for education and training to:
- Spouses of veterans rated 100% P&T
- Surviving spouses of veterans who died from a service-connected condition
- Dependent children of eligible veterans
What Does It Cover?
DEA provides a monthly education benefit payment that can be used toward:
- College degree programs
- Technical or vocational training
- Certification programs
- Apprenticeships and on-the-job training
- Some online programs
The benefit is paid directly to the student and can be used for approved educational expenses.
How Long Are Benefits Available?
- Children generally have eligibility between ages 18–26
- Spouses typically have 10–20 years to use the benefit (depending on circumstances)
Benefits for Federal Employees - USA.GOV
Education Benefits for Dependents of 100% Disabled Veterans
Benefits for Federal Employees - USA.GOV
The Benefits for Federal Employees page on USA.gov (www.usa.gov/benefits-for-federal-employees) is an official government resource that consolidates the key benefits available to federal workers in one place. It provides clear, easy-to-navigate information about employment protections, retirement plans, health insurance options, leave and time-off policies, life insurance, disability programs, and other workplace benefits. Whether you’re a current federal employee, a federal retiree, or considering federal service, this site helps you understand your entitlements and where to find detailed guidance from the appropriate agencies. It’s a central starting point to learn about the programs that support federal workers and their families throughout their careers.
Retirement Benefits for FERS & CSRS
Retirement Benefits for FERS & CSRS
Benefits for Federal Employees - USA.GOV
Federal employees are covered under one of two primary retirement systems: FERS (Federal Employees Retirement System) or CSRS (Civil Service Retirement System).
FERS is the current retirement system for most federal employees and includes three components:
- A basic pension based on years of service and high-three average salary
- Social Security benefits
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions, including government matching
FERS is designed to provide a balanced retirement income through a combination of pension, personal savings, and Social Security.
CSRS, which applies to employees hired before 1984 (with limited exceptions), provides a larger standalone pension based on years of service and salary but does not include Social Security coverage. CSRS participants may also contribute to the TSP, but without government matching contributions.
Understanding which system you are under — and how your pension, TSP, and Social Security work together — is critical for building a secure federal retirement strategy and making informed decisions about timing, benefits, and income planning.
FERS Survivor Benefits
Retirement Benefits for FERS & CSRS
FERS Survivor Benefits
Under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), survivor benefits provide ongoing financial protection to eligible family members after the death of a federal employee or retiree.
For a current federal employee, if death occurs while still employed, a surviving spouse may be eligible for:
- A Basic Employee Death Benefit (a lump-sum payment)
- A monthly survivor annuity, if the employee had at least 18 months of creditable civilian service
- Potential continuation of FEHB health insurance coverage, if eligibility requirements are met
For a retired federal employee, if a survivor benefit was elected at retirement, the surviving spouse may receive:
- A monthly annuity, typically 50% or 25% of the retiree’s pension, depending on the election made
- Continued eligibility for Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) coverage, if properly elected
FERS survivor benefits are an important part of retirement planning. Elections made at retirement directly impact the financial stability and health coverage of a surviving spouse, making it essential to understand options before making final decisions.
Proper planning ensures that while circumstances may change, financial protection for loved ones remains in place.
Nonprofit community programs for military families & Veteran
Wounded Warrior Project
Cohen Veterans Network
Whether you are looking for in-person counseling, telehealth counseling or crisis care, they have care options that meet your needs.
Onward to Opportunity
A career skills program that provides civilian career training, professional certifications and employment services support to transitioning service members, members of the Reserves or National Guard, veterans, and military spouses.
VetNet
Online resource offering innovative networking tools, career training, job opportunities and entrepreneurship classes. VetNet is a free service for the entire veteran and military family community.
https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/entrepreneurship/resources/vetnet/
Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV) Accelerate
EBV Accelerate is a bootcamp-style program focused on growth and tackles head-on topics such as the financial, management, marketing and strategic planning challenges established businesses face.
https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/entrepreneurship/growth/ebva/
Boots to Business (B2B)
For those interested in exploring business ownership or other self-employment opportunities by leading them through the key steps for evaluating business concepts and providing foundational knowledge required to develop a business plan.
https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/entrepreneurship/ideation/boots-to-business/
Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship (V-WISE)
A women-focused training program in entrepreneurship and small business management that provides tools, ongoing support and business mentorship to veterans, active duty service members and military spouses aspiring to become successful entrepreneurs.
https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/entrepreneurship/start-up/v-wise/
Veteran EDGE
Veteran EDGE (Engage. Develop. Grow. Evaluate.) is a four-day conference dedicated solely to veteran and military spouse business owners and the ecosystem that supports them.
https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/entrepreneurship/growth/veteran-edge/
V-WISE IGNITE
Introduction to entrepreneurship available to women veterans, active duty service women, and women military spouses/life-partners who are just beginning to explore the opportunity of small business ownership as a post-service career path.
https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/entrepreneurship/ideation/ignite/
Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV)
Cutting edge entrepreneurship training program teaching the steps and stages of business creation and business management, with a tailored emphasis on the unique challenges and opportunities associated with being a veteran business owner.
https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/entrepreneurship/start-up/ebv/
Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans’ Families (EBV-F)
Entrepreneurship training program that integrates training with caregiver and family matters, positioning participants to launch and grow small businesses while tending to family responsibilities. Offered to spouses and family members, or the surviving spouse of a military member who gave his or her life in service to our country.
https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/entrepreneurship/start-up/ebvf/
Operation New Uniform
National Disabled Veterans Association (DVNF)
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MILTAX: TAX SERVICES FOR THE MILITARY
MilTax from Military OneSource and the Department of Defense is a free tax services . It includes a tax prep and e-filing software and personalized support that address the realities of military life such as deployments, combat and training pay, housing and rentals, multistate filings, living OCONUS and more.