Tax-Free Shopping by State:

• Alabama – 7/17/26 – 7/19/26 – Clothes, computers, textbooks, school supplies, school art, and school instructional material
• Alaska – No state sales tax – Some locations may waive local sales tax
• Arizona – None scheduled
• Arkansas – 8/1/26 – 8/2/26 – Clothing, electronics, school supplies, school art, and school instructional material
• California – None scheduled
• Colorado – None scheduled
• Connecticut – 8/16/26 – 8/22/26 – Clothing
• Delaware – No state sales tax
• Florida – 8/1/26 – 8/31/26 – Personal computers and accessories, wallets, backpacks, school supplies, learning aids, and clothing
• Georgia – None scheduled
• Hawaii – None scheduled
• Idaho – None scheduled
• Illinois – None scheduled
• Indiana – None scheduled
• Iowa – 8/7/26 – 8/8/26 – Clothing and footwear.
• Kansas – None scheduled
• Kentucky – None scheduled
• Louisiana – None scheduled
• Maine – None scheduled
• Maryland – 08/09/26 – 8/15/26 – Clothing, footwear, and backpacks.
• Massachusetts – 8/15/26 – 8/16/26
• Michigan – None scheduled
• Minnesota – Proposed but not enacted – 7/1/26 – 7/31/26
• Mississippi – 7/10/26 – 7/12/2026 – Clothing, footwear, and school supplies
• Missouri – 8/7/26 – 8/9/26 – Clothing, computers, and school supplies
• Montana – No state sales tax
• Nebraska – None scheduled
• Nevada – None scheduled
• New Hampshire – No state sales tax
• New Jersey – None scheduled
• New Mexico – 7/25/26 – 7/27/26 – Clothing, shoes, computers & software, school supplies
• New York – None scheduled
• North Carolina – None scheduled
• North Dakota – None scheduled
• Ohio – 8/7/26 – 8/9/26 – Clothing, school supplies, school instructional materials
• Oklahoma – 8/7/26 – 8/9/26 – Clothing items
• Oregon – No sales tax
• Pennsylvania – None scheduled
• Rhode Island – None scheduled
• South Carolina – 8/7/26 – 8/9/26 – Clothing, accessories, shoes, school supplies, backpacks, and computers
• South Dakota – None scheduled
• Tennessee – 7/31/26 – 8/2/26
• Texas – 8/7/26 – 8/9/26 – Clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks
• Vermont – None scheduled
• Virginia – 8/7/26 – 8/9/26 – (Virginia Department of Taxation website not updated as of 6/15/26)
• Washington – None scheduled
• Washington D.C. – None scheduled
• West Virginia – None scheduled
• Wisconsin – None scheduled
• Wyoming – None scheduled

Prefer to shop on base? Military families can prepare for the back-to-school shopping season with double the savings on back-to-school essentials at Exchange Stores during their state’s sales tax holiday.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finance!

Let’s break it down in a way that fits the realities of military life.

What Is a Credit Freeze?

• A credit freeze (also called a security freeze) is a free tool that restricts access to your credit report. When your credit is frozen, lenders can’t pull your credit file, meaning no one can open a new credit account in your name, even if they have your personal information.
• You can still use your existing credit cards and accounts normally. A freeze only blocks new credit from being opened.

Why Consider Freezing Your Credit?

• Military families face several identity‑theft risks that civilians don’t:
  • Frequent PCS moves increase the number of organizations handling your personal information.
  • Deployments make it harder to monitor accounts regularly.
  • Living overseas can expose your data to unfamiliar systems or scams.
  • Military records are high‑value targets for cybercriminals.
• A credit freeze is one of the most effective ways to shut down unauthorized credit activity.

Advantages of Freezing Your Credit

• Strong Protection Against Identity Theft – A credit freeze blocks criminals from opening loans, credit cards, or accounts in your name, even if they have your Social Security number or other personal information.
• It’s Free – Federal law requires all three major credit bureaus to offer freezes at no cost.
• It Doesn’t Affect Your Credit Score – Freezing your credit will not change your credit score up or down. Payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, recent credit applications, and your credit mix determine your credit score.
• You Can Lift It Anytime – If you need to apply for a loan, you can temporarily “thaw” your credit online or by phone.

Disadvantages (and How to Manage Them)

• You Must Unfreeze Before Applying for Credit – If you’re buying a car, applying for a mortgage, or opening a new credit card, you’ll need to lift the freeze. This is usually quick—often just minutes—but requires planning.
• You Must Freeze/Unfreeze with All Three Bureaus – A complete freeze means contacting:
  • Equifax
  • Experian
  • TransUnion
• You Need to Keep Track of Your PINs or Login Credentials – Losing access can delay your ability to lift a freeze when needed.

When Should a Service Member Freeze Their Credit?

• A credit freeze is especially useful during:
• Deployments – If you’ll be away from home and unable to monitor your accounts regularly, freezing your credit is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself.
• PCS Moves – Each move increases the number of offices, landlords, and agencies handling your personal data. A freeze reduces the risk of misuse.
• Extended Overseas Assignments – Foreign networks and systems may not have the same security standards as U.S. institutions.
• After Any Data Breach – If your information was exposed—whether through a government breach, a retailer, or a financial institution—a freeze is a smart next step.

How to Freeze Your Credit (Step-by-Step)

You must contact each credit bureau individually. The process is free and takes about 10–15 minutes per bureau.

• Equifax
  • Visit the Equifax freeze page
  • Create or log in to your account
  • Verify your identity
  • Apply the freeze
• Experian
  • Visit the Experian freeze page
  • Follow the identity verification steps
  • Freeze your credit
• TransUnion
  • Visit the TransUnion freeze page
  • Create an account
  • Freeze your credit

You’ll receive confirmation and instructions for lifting the freeze later.

Special Considerations for Military Personnel

• Active-Duty Alerts Are Available – Service members can place a free, one‑year active‑duty fraud alert. This requires businesses to take extra steps to verify your identity before issuing credit.
• A fraud alert is helpful, but a credit freeze is stronger.
• Overseas Phone Numbers May Not Work – Some credit bureaus require U.S.-based phone numbers for verification. If you’re stationed overseas:
  • Use a U.S. phone number (Google Voice, VOIP, or a U.S. line on your plan)
  • Set up your online accounts before leaving the country
• Power of Attorney (POA)
  • If you’re deployed, consider giving a trusted spouse or family member POA so they can:
    • Freeze or unfreeze your credit
    • Handle financial matters on your behalf
• Keep Your Login Credentials Secure
  • Store your credit bureau login information in:
    • A secure password manager
    • A sealed envelope in a home safe
    • A secure digital vault
  • This is especially important if you’re deployed or moving frequently.
• Children’s Credit Freezes – Military families often move frequently, and children’s Social Security numbers can be vulnerable. You can freeze your child’s credit for free with all three bureaus.

Should You Freeze Your Credit?

• For most service members and military families, the answer is yes.
• A credit freeze is:
  • Free
  • Fast
  • Reversible
  • Highly effective
• If you’re deploying, PCSing, or living overseas, a freeze gives you peace of mind and reduces the risk of financial chaos waiting for you back home.

Military life comes with enough challenges—identity theft shouldn’t be one of them. A credit freeze is one of the simplest, strongest ways to protect your financial future, especially when your lifestyle makes you a bigger target.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finances!

Before You Convert: Four Questions Every Military Family Should Ask

1. What will this do to my taxes this year?

• A conversion increases your taxable income.
• That could:
  • Push you into a higher tax bracket
  • Affect eligibility for certain benefits
  • Trigger estimated tax payments
• You must pay the tax bill out of pocket—you cannot use TSP funds to cover it.

2. Will my tax rate be higher or lower in the future?

• This is the heart of the decision.
• A conversion may make sense if:
  • You’re in a low tax bracket now
  • You expect higher income in retirement (pension + Social Security + withdrawals)
  • You want to reduce future required minimum distributions (RMDs)
• It may not make sense if:
  • You’re currently in a high tax bracket
  • You expect a lower income in retirement
  • You can already contribute directly to Roth TSP through payroll

3. How will this affect my retirement income strategy?

• Military retirees often have multiple income streams:
  • Military pension
  • VA disability
  • Social Security
  • TSP withdrawals
• If you expect your taxable income to be high in retirement, having tax-free Roth money can give you flexibility and help you avoid higher Medicare premiums (IRMAA) and Required Minimum Distributions (RMD).

4. What are my long-term goals for my family?

• A Roth balance can be a powerful legacy tool:
  • Beneficiaries can receive tax-free withdrawals
  • You avoid passing on a tax burden
  • Charitable gifts from Roth funds are tax-efficient
• If your heirs will be in a lower tax bracket than you are today, converting now may cost more than letting them inherit traditional funds.

The Five-Year Rules You Can’t Ignore

• Two separate IRS clocks start ticking when you convert:
  • Five-year rule for Roth earnings
    • Earnings become tax-free only if:
      • Five years have passed since your first Roth contribution or conversion
      • AND you’re age 59½, disabled, or deceased
  • Five-year rule for converted amounts
    • If you withdraw converted funds within five years and you’re under 59½, you may owe a 10% penalty.
    • For military families who move, deploy, and transition frequently, these timelines matter.

So… Should You Convert?

• There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
• Here’s a simple way to think about it:
  • A Roth in-plan conversion may be a good fit if you:
    • Are in a low tax bracket this year
    • Have cash available to pay the tax bill
    • Expect higher income in retirement
    • Want to reduce future RMDs
    • Want to leave tax-free money to your family
  • It may not be the right move if you:
    • Are currently in a high tax bracket
    • Can already contribute to Roth TSP through payroll
    • Don’t have cash to pay the taxes
    • Expect lower income in retirement
    • Will need the converted money within five years

Final Thoughts for Military Families

Military life brings unique financial opportunities—and unique challenges. A Roth in‑plan conversion can be a powerful tool, but only when used intentionally and with a clear understanding of the tax implications.

If you’re considering a conversion:

• Run the numbers
• Think about your long-term goals
• Consider your retirement income sources
• Talk with a tax professional

A well‑timed conversion can save thousands in taxes over your lifetime—but a poorly timed one can create an unnecessary tax bill. There’s a lot to figure out when it comes to in-plan conversions, so make sure you are fully informed to make the right decision for your situation!

Did you miss out on the first part of our Roth In-Plan Conversions mini-series? Then, make sure to check it out!

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finances!

Some mornings I promise myself I will just make coffee at home and then somehow I am pulling into a gas station anyway, wishing I had planned ahead with a strong cup from Black Rifle Coffee Company waiting for me instead. 

Nothing crashes. Nothing spirals. It just gets a little chaotic. A little “I will deal with this later.” Then, spring shows up, the weather softens, and I realize it is time for my annual life reset.  Not a full reinvention. I am not waking up at 5 a.m. to journal or suddenly becoming a budgeting influencer. It is more like sitting down with my coffee and having an honest conversation with myself about how the last few months actually went. 

The first thing I do is look back at what drill season really cost us. The extra gas stops. The convenience meals after long weekends. The small purchases that felt completely deserved in the moment because sometimes you just need life to be easier for five minutes. I do not shame myself for any of it. Winter is the survival season. I just take notice because awareness is where better habits start. 

Then, I switch from reactive mode to prepared mode. I start planning for drill weekends instead of winging them. I stock up on freezer meals when sales hit, because Sunday evenings are not the time for ambitious cooking plans. Sometimes that means keeping simple meal options from Home Chef on hand so dinner is already decided before I even walk through the door. I actually check rewards apps before grocery shopping and make sure I am using military savings programs instead of remembering them halfway home. 

Spring is also when I reset the practical side of my Guard life.  Uniforms get properly checked. I reorganize my gear and inevitably find something I almost repurchased because I thought it disappeared into the void. Replacing things calmly is always cheaper than replacing them in a panic.  After that, I zoom out and look at the bigger picture. 

Are we still moving toward our savings goals? Did winter utilities quietly attack our budget? What do we need to adjust before Annual Training sneaks up on us? Writing everything down helps me see patterns instead of stress, so I sit with my planner and map out the next few months. Lately, my planner has become part budgeting tool, part life checkpoint, and part reminder that I am actually doing better than I think. 

Guard life has its own financial rhythm, and pretending every month looks the same just does not work. This seasonal reset helps me feel in control again instead of constantly trying to catch up with life. 

What I have learned is that financial organization is not about perfection. It is about maintenance. Small resets. Gentle course corrections. Giving yourself credit for managing a lot while still choosing to be intentional. 

Spring, for me, is less about fixing mistakes and more about setting future me up for success. I stock easy snacks, toss a few Liquid I.V. packets into my bag for drill because hydration somehow becomes optional when weekends get busy, and try to remove as many small stressors as possible before they start. When there is a peace of mind, a stocked freezer, and knowing drill weekend is already planned out? That is the kind of luxury I actually want now. Oh yeah…I will probably still buy the occasional gas station caffeine. It’s about growth, and not perfection.

Find Out More with My Military Lifestyle and Guard Life!

Think of this as moving from understanding the basics to learning how to use the TSP more strategically. A lot of service members don’t realize this option even exists, but when used at the right time, it can shape both your tax bill today and your financial flexibility in retirement. My goal here is to walk you through it in the same clear, practical way we approached the basics without jargon, just the information you need to make a confident decision.

Let’s break it down together.

What Is a Roth in‑Plan Conversion?

A Roth in‑plan conversion moves money from your traditional (pre-tax) TSP balance into your Roth (after-tax) balance. You’re not withdrawing anything, you’re just shifting it inside your account. The trade-off is straightforward: you pay taxes now so you can enjoy tax-free withdrawals later, as long as IRS rules are met.

Think of it as choosing when you want to pay the tax bill now or later, in retirement.

A Quick TSP Refresher:

• Traditional TSP gives you a tax break today. You don’t pay taxes on the money you contribute, but you will pay taxes on both the contributions and the growth when you withdraw it in retirement.
• Roth TSP works the opposite way. You pay taxes on the contribution now, but both your contributions and the growth come is withdrawn tax-free in retirement if you follow the rules.

A Roth in‑plan conversion takes money you originally contributed as Traditional and treats it as if you had contributed it as Roth all along, meaning you settle the tax bill today in exchange for tax-free income later.

Who Can Convert?

Almost everyone with a TSP can do a Roth in‑plan conversion, including:

• Active‑duty service members
• Federal civilians
• Retirees
• Spouse beneficiaries
• Non-spouse beneficiaries are the ONLY group excluded.

The minimum conversion amount is $500, and you can do up to 26 conversions per year.

Special Note for Service Members with Combat‑Zone Contributions

If you’ve contributed tax-exempt money while deployed, a portion of your conversion will also be tax-exempt. However, the IRS requires conversions to be proportional, so you can’t choose to convert only the tax-free portion.

This means:

• If your tax-exempt balance is small, most of your conversion will still be taxable.
• If your tax-exempt balance is large, more of your conversion will be tax-free.

This is one area where military members have a unique advantage, but only if the math works in your favor.

Don’t forget to check out part two of this Roth In-Plan Conversions mini-series!

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finances!

The PCS-Season Planning Timeline:
First, back-plan from your “keys by” date. Pick your “keys by” target, then work backward. Start with the moment you want to be moved in. Then, reverse engineer your timeline. For example, if you want the keys by early June, then aim to be under contract by mid-end of April. Begin serious touring and ready-to-move offers by March. This means, in February, you’ll start your prep stage (pre-approval, budget, must-haves, neighborhoods).

Why so early? That’s because even when everything goes smoothly, the path from offer to closing still includes multiple moving parts. Inspection negotiations, appraisal timing, and lender underwriting can all add time. One delay can push you into the busiest weeks of PCS season. If you want to close by summer, start seriously looking in March, not May. Then, make sure you have a solid team in place to get through this process!

If you can do one thing that lowers stress, it is this: choose people who understand military timelines. Find a realtor familiar with military families and VA transactions. A VA-friendly realtor helps you move quickly without skipping steps. They are used to coordinating video tours, remote paperwork, tight deadlines, and the reality that life can change quickly with orders.

Questions to Ask Your Realtor:
1. How many VA closings have you handled recently?
2. What appraisal-related issues come up most for VA buyers in this area?
3. How do you structure inspection deadlines and repair negotiations when the market is moving fast?
4. If we are buying from out of state, what is your plan for walkthroughs and quick decisions?

VA Loan Factors First-Time Buyers Should Know:
These are the things most military families ask early, and they can impact your timeline. Look into VA occupancy and options for being able to rent the home later. VA home loans are designed for primary residences, not investment properties. The big idea is good-faith intent to occupy the home as your main place to live.

A lot of people ask, “How long do I have to wait before I can rent it out?” There is not always one universal “wait this many months” rule. What matters most is that you planned to live there first. If PCS orders or life changes happen later, renting may be possible, but it is smart to talk to your lender early, because lenders can have extra rules on top of VA guidelines. Just remember, buy it to live in it first. If PCS orders change the plan later, confirm options with your lender early.

With a VA loan, you will have a VA appraisal. An appraisal is not the same thing as a home inspection. The appraisal supports the home’s value and checks for baseline safety and livability standards. If something comes up that does not meet those standards, it can turn into a required repair before closing. A home inspection is your deeper look at the home’s condition and systems. Even though it is not always required, it is one of the best ways to protect yourself as a first-time buyer because it helps you understand what you are walking into and what you might need to budget for. The VA appraisal helps you qualify and close. The inspection helps you buy smarter and negotiate with confidence.

More Questions to Ask Your Realtor:
1. If we need keys by ___, when should we start touring and offering?
2. What is normal here in spring…for example, days on market, multiple offers, and offer deadlines?
3. What contingencies are still realistic right now?
4. What issues are common here: drainage, flooding, termites, foundation movement?
5. What is the typical age range for roofs and HVAC in this neighborhood?
6. If we PCS in 2 to 3 years, does this area rent well?
7. What VA appraisal conditions show up most often in this market?
8. If repairs are needed, how do you usually negotiate: repairs, credits, or price adjustments?

Home Inspection Questions That Actually Help:
1. What are the top 3 safety concerns, if any?
2. What will likely cost us money in the first year?
3. What maintenance should we put on a calendar?
4. Where are the shutoffs and how do I use them?
5. Is there evidence of past leaks or moisture problems?

Treat the inspection like a lesson, not a pass/fail report. If the report flags expensive items (roof near end of life, aging HVAC), do not panic. The inspection is information. It helps you decide what you can handle, what you want to negotiate, and what you should plan for right away.

Finally, you’ve reached the home stretch. Insurance is one of the easiest places to accidentally under-prepare, especially during a PCS rush. Do this early. Confirm you understand deductibles (wind, hail, named storm, etc.) Ask what is covered and what might require separate coverage. Store policy docs and a home inventory in shared cloud storage that both spouses can access. For paper versions, store those in a fireproof/waterproof container. Your emergency fund is part of being “insurance-smart,” because not every home issue turns into an insurance claim.

Buying during PCS season does not have to feel like guesswork. Starting early, working with a realtor who understands military life, and knowing how VA loans and inspections work can help you make more confident decisions. The goal is not to do everything perfectly. It is to stay prepared enough that you can move forward with less stress and more clarity. After all the back-planning, paperwork, and decision-making, getting those keys is a big deal. Take a moment to celebrate how far you have come.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Military Life & Family!

For military families juggling PCS moves, deployments, and unpredictable schedules, knowing the account is professionally managed and federally regulated brings real peace of mind.

Who Chooses the Investments?

• Not parents — and not the IRS.
• Once Form 4547 is approved, your child’s Trump Account is assigned to an approved trustee, usually a financial institution authorized to manage IRA‑type accounts. That trustee makes all investment decisions on behalf of the child.
• Parents don’t pick individual stocks or funds. This design keeps the account simple, consistent, and compliant, no matter where military life takes you.

How Are Trump Account Funds Invested?

• Since Trump Accounts function like a traditional IRA for children, they follow standard IRA investment rules.
• Trustees may invest in:
  • Mutual funds
  • ETFs
  • Target‑date or age‑based portfolios
  • Other diversified IRA‑eligible pools
• They may not invest in:
  • Collectibles
  • Life insurance contracts
  • Direct real estate
  • Certain restricted or leveraged products
• For military families, this means the account stays aligned with mainstream, long‑term, retirement‑style investing — portable, regulated, and built for steady growth.

This Setup Helps Military Families

• This structure is designed to offer:
  • Professional management — one less account for you to track
  • Diversification — spreading risk across sectors
  • Consistent federal rules — no matter your duty station
  • Tax‑deferred growth until age 18 — more time for compounding
• Even without additional contributions, the federal pilot deposit alone can grow meaningfully. At an 8% annual growth rate, the initial $1,000 becomes over $3,900 by age 18. If left untouched until age 60, it can exceed $101,000 — a powerful head start for your young adult.

Why This Matters

A Trump Account isn’t meant to replace a 529 plan, family savings, or the TSP. It’s another layer of financial readiness for your household — portable across every PCS, low‑maintenance, and quietly growing in the background while you focus on the mission.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finance!

For military households navigating PCS moves, deployments, and the unique rhythms of service life, understanding how this new account works can help you build long‑term financial stability for your children, no matter where the military sends you.

What IRS Form 4547 Does

• Form 4547 is the official election form that:
  • Opens a Trump Account for a child under age 18
  • Requests the $1,000 federal seed contribution for eligible children born 2025–2028
• This form is filed during the 2026 tax season, alongside your 2025 return.

Who Can File (Important for Deployed or Geographically Separated Families)

• The following individuals may file Form 4547:
  • A parent
  • A legal guardian
  • In certain cases, an adult sibling or grandparent
• To receive the $1,000 contribution, the filer must also claim the child as a dependent.
• This matters for military families because:
  • If one parent is deployed, the at‑home spouse can still file.
  • If a child is living temporarily with grandparents during a PCS or deployment, the dependency rules still determine who can claim the $1,000.
  • Dual‑military families should coordinate who claims the child to avoid delays.

Who Qualifies for the $1,000 Pilot Contribution

• A child must meet all of the following:
  • Born January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2028
  • U.S. citizen with a valid Social Security number
  • Lives with you and is claimed as your dependent
  • Has not already received the pilot contribution
• Children outside this birth window can still open a Trump Account—they simply won’t receive the $1,000 seed deposit.
• Key Dates Military Families Should Track
  • January 2026: Filing season opens
  • April 15, 2026: Tax deadline (extensions still available for deployed members in combat zones)
  • May 2026: Activation instructions sent
  • July 4, 2026: Contributions begin and federal deposits start
• For service members deployed to a combat zone, the IRS typically extends filing deadlines. That means you may have additional time to submit Form 4547 without penalty.

Contribution Limits

• $5,000 per year from family
• $2,500 per year from employers
• Unlimited philanthropic contributions

This structure allows military families to:

• Build savings even during lower‑income years
• Invite grandparents or extended family to contribute
• Use employer contributions if your service‑connected civilian employer offers them (may apply for some Guard/Reserve families)

Trump Account vs. 529 Plan: Which Fits Military Life?

• Both accounts can work together, but they serve different purposes.
  • Trump Account
    • General long‑term savings
    • Usable after age 18
    • Not restricted to education
    • Portable across states and duty stations
  • 529 Plan
    • Education‑focused
    • Tax‑free for qualified education expenses
    • Can be used for college, trade school, or certain K–12 tuition
    • Also portable across states
  • For military families who move frequently, the portability of both accounts is a major advantage. A Trump Account can serve as a flexible “launch fund” for adulthood—useful for first‑car purchases, emergency savings, or early career expenses—while a 529 remains the go‑to tool for education.

Why This Matters for Military Families

• Military life creates unique financial challenges:
  • Frequent PCS moves disrupt employment and savings
  • Deployments create periods of separation and logistical complexity
  • Childcare and school transitions vary by duty station
  • Many families support children through long-distance parenting
• A Trump Account offers:
  • A federally backed starting point for long‑term savings
  • A predictable contribution window
  • A way for extended family to support children even when parents are deployed
  • A tool that stays with the child regardless of where the military sends you
•    For junior enlisted families especially, the $1,000 pilot contribution can be a meaningful jump‑start to long‑term financial security.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finances!

What IS the Thrift Savings Plan?

• The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is the federal government’s version of a 401(k), a retirement savings account that allows you to invest money in now, so it grows over time.
• For service members in the Blended Retirement System, the TSP is an integral part of your retirement package, complete with automatic contributions and potential matching from the Department of Defense.

Why the TSP Matters for Military Members

• Retirement investing can be confusing. The TSP is designed to simplify planning, offering low fees, simple investment options, and the flexibility to continue contributing whether you’re stateside, deployed, or transitioning out of the service.
• Since your career path may include PCS moves, breaks in service, or early separation, the TSP gives you a portable, long‑term financial foundation that stays with you no matter where the military sends you.

How does the TSP work?

• Think of it as a partnership between you and your future self.
• You choose how much to contribute from your paycheck, and that money goes into your TSP account.
• If you’re in the Blended Retirement System, the DoD also contributes automatically and may match part of what you put in.
• Over time, your contributions and investment growth compound, meaning your money earns money.

What are my contribution options (Traditional vs. Roth)?

• The TSP offers tax-advantaged savings in two ways:
  • Traditional TSP: You don’t pay taxes on the money now, the money grows tax-deferred, and you pay taxes on the amount contributed and the growth when you withdraw it in retirement.
  • Roth TSP: You pay taxes on the contribution amount now, and the investment grows tax-free. Withdrawals in retirement are tax‑free if you follow the rules.
• Both options can be smart—it just depends on your situation and goals.

What are the TSP investment funds?

• The TSP keeps things simple.
• Instead of hundreds of choices, you get a small menu of funds that represent different parts of the market.
• These include the G, F, C, S, and I Funds, plus the Lifecycle (L) Funds that mix them automatically based on your target retirement date.

What does each TSP fund invest in?

• Here’s a quick overview of the different fund options, what each invests in, the level of risk, and how the funds have performed over the past decade:
• Each fund represents a different “slice” of the market and mixing them helps balance risk and reward.

How do the Lifecycle (L) Funds work?

• L Funds are “set it and forget it” options.
• You pick the fund closest to the year you expect to retire, and it automatically adjusts your mix of investments over time—more growth when you’re younger, more stability as you get closer to retirement.

How do I choose the right TSP fund for my goals?

• Start with two questions:
  • How long until I need this money?
  • How comfortable am I with ups and downs in the market?
• Longer timelines usually allow for more growth‑focused funds (C, S, I).
• Shorter timelines or lower risk tolerance lean toward more conservative options (G, F).
• L Funds are a great middle ground if you want simplicity.

How much should I contribute to my TSP?

• A good starting point is enough to get the full DoD match if you’re in the Blended Retirement System.
• From there, increasing your contribution by even 1% each year can make a huge difference over time.
• Investing early in your career enables greater growth opportunities.
• The key is consistency.

What happens to my TSP if I PCS, deploy, or leave the military?

• Your TSP stays with you.
• You can keep contributing while deployed, and if you separate or retire, the account remains yours.
• You can leave it where it is, roll it into another retirement account, or start withdrawing in retirement, typically age 59 1/2.

How do I check or change my TSP allocations?

• You can log into your TSP account online and adjust your contributions or investment choices anytime.
• It’s quick, and even small changes can help you stay aligned with your goals.

What mistakes should I avoid?

• A few common ones:
  • Not investing at all.
  • Leaving money on the table by not contributing enough to receive the government match.
  • Putting everything in the G Fund because it “feels safe.”
  • Forgetting to update contributions after a PCS or promotion.
  • Trying to time the market.
• Slow, steady, and consistent usually wins.

How can the TSP help me build long‑term wealth?

• The combination of low fees, matching contributions, and decades of compound growth makes the TSP a powerful engine for your financial future.
• Even modest contributions can grow significantly over a military career.

Where can I learn more or get help?

• The TSP website is the go-to source for TSP information.
• Your installation’s financial readiness office and Military OneSource are excellent sources for personalized TSP assistance.
• The more you understand, the more confident you’ll feel about the choices you’re making.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finances!

Here are five creative ways to turn February into a financial win:

• “Buy Nothing” Month
  • Challenge your household to skip all non‑essential purchases for the entire month. That means no impulse buys, no takeout splurges, and no new gadgets. Instead, focus on using what you already have, borrowing from neighbors, or swapping with friends.
  • Bonus Tip: Keep a “wish list” of things you almost bought. Revisit it in March—you’ll be amazed how many items no longer feel important.

• “Empty the Freezer” Month
  • Think of your freezer as a hidden treasure chest. Build your meal plan around what’s already tucked away—frozen veggies, meats, leftovers, and even those mystery containers you’ve been avoiding.
  • Military Twist: This strategy is especially helpful before a PCS move or deployment. Clearing out food now saves money, reduces waste, and makes packing day a whole lot easier.

• “Declutter & Sell” Sprint
  • Tackle clutter one room per week and list usable items on Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or base swap groups. Price fairly and include clear photos to move items quickly. Donating items to a charity thrift shop can give your gently used items a second life and may net you a tax deduction.
  • Family Angle: Get kids involved—let them sort toys and earn a portion of the proceeds. It teaches responsibility, basic money skills, and the value of giving (consider donating part of the earnings).

• “Pantry Potluck” Nights
  • Host themed dinners using only pantry staples—think “rice night,” “canned‑goods chili,” or “pasta remix.” Invite neighbors or fellow military families to bring a dish made from their pantry finds.
  • Community Bonus: These nights build connection and morale, turn meal prep into a social event, and cut everyone’s grocery bills. Combined with a game night for adults and movies for the kids, it becomes an event that everyone loves.

• “No-Spend” Hobby Month
  • Pick hobbies that cost nothing: borrow library books, start a journal, hike local trails, craft with recycled materials, or learn a new skill through free online resources. Schedule regular time for these activities to make them stick.
  • Deployment‑Friendly: These low‑cost pastimes are great for solo parents or service members looking to relax and recharge without spending.

February’s brevity is a blessing—it’s long enough to build habits, short enough to stay motivated. Whether you’re stationed stateside or overseas, these challenges can help military families build resilience, save money, and spark joy in simple living.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finance!