A home can absolutely be a source of stability and long-term wealth, but it can also become a burden if purchased at the wrong time. The smartest choice often depends less on the housing market and more on where a service member is in their career and what their life looks like right now.

With that in mind, let’s walk through how the buy‑versus‑rent decision changes as military life unfolds.

Early Career: When Flexibility Matters Most

For newer service members, especially those in their first enlistment or early officer years, renting is usually the safer path. Income is still growing, savings may be limited, and orders can shift with little warning. Renting gives individuals and families the freedom to move quickly without the stress of selling a home or managing a property from across the country.

It also shields from the financial surprises that come with homeownership. A broken HVAC system, a leaking roof, or a major plumbing issue can wipe out savings in an instant. Renting keeps those responsibilities on the landlord, not the service member.

Perhaps most importantly, renting gives families time to learn the area. The first duty station isn’t always the place you want to plant roots. Renting lets you explore neighborhoods, schools, commute times, and community life before making a long-term commitment.

Buying early in a career can work, but only when the assignment is long enough, the budget is stable, and there are enough savings to handle the unexpected. Without those pieces in place, it’s easy to end up “house poor,” stuck with a home that costs more than it’s worth in stress and financial strain.

Mid-Career: When Stability and Space Become Priorities

By the time service members reach mid-career, the picture often changes. Income is higher, financial habits are stronger, and families may be craving more stability. Better schools, more space, a yard, or a sense of community that’s hard to find in short-term rentals may be your priority.

This is the stage where buying a home can start to make long-term financial sense. A fixed mortgage offers predictable monthly payments, and each payment builds equity instead of disappearing into rent. Some families even turn previous homes into rental properties after a PCS, creating an additional income stream.

However, homeownership during active service still comes with challenges. PCS moves can force families to sell during a slow market or manage repairs from thousands of miles away. Becoming a landlord can be rewarding for some and overwhelming for others.

Buying mid-career works best when the family has strong savings, manageable debt, and a realistic plan for maintenance and PCS unpredictability. Be sure to consider whether the home would still be affordable if the family suddenly had to rely on one income. It’s also worth asking whether the purchase is a strategic financial decision or an emotional one.   

Approaching Retirement: Building the Life You Want Next

As retirement draws closer, the housing conversation shifts again. Instead of thinking about flexibility, many families begin thinking about where they want to build their post-military life. Buying a home near retirement can offer stability, predictable housing costs, and the freedom to finally choose a home based on personal preference rather than military necessity.

A paid-off or low-mortgage home can dramatically reduce financial pressure in retirement. However, there are risks here, too. Some families buy too much house, assuming retirement pay will fully replace active-duty income. Transition expenses, healthcare costs, and uncertain civilian employment can make that assumption dangerous.

Before buying, it’s important to consider where you truly want to settle, what your retirement income will actually look like, and whether the home will still fit your needs as you age. Accessibility, healthcare access, cost of living, and long-term maintenance all matter more than they once did.

Questions Every Military Family Should Ask

No matter the rank or stage of service, a few questions rise above the rest:

• How long do we realistically expect to stay here?
• Do we have a strong emergency fund?
• Can we comfortably handle maintenance and repairs?
• Could we manage a PCS or deployment without financial strain?
• Would this home still be affordable if one income disappeared?
• Are we buying because it fits our goals — or because of outside pressure?

These questions aren’t meant to discourage homeownership. They’re meant to protect families from making decisions that don’t align with their reality.

So What Should You Do?

There is no universal answer to whether military families should buy or rent. For some, renting provides freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind. For others, buying offers stability and long-term financial growth. The best choice is the one that supports your family’s goals, lifestyle, and future plans.

Sometimes the smartest move is buying a home. Sometimes the smartest move is waiting…and in military life, flexibility itself is a powerful financial asset.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finance!

That’s just real life, especially in a military family. Things shift. Orders change. Schedules get unpredictable. Expenses show up out of nowhere, and somehow the little things end up being the big things. So, instead of trying to force a budget that no longer fits, I’ve learned to pause and adjust. 

This is the point in the year where I sit down and get honest with myself. Not the ideal version of how I wanted things to go, but what actually happened. Where did our money really go?

Not where I planned for it to go. Where it actually went. The extra gas from running back and forth. The convenience spending during busy weeks. The last-minute things for the kids. The random expenses that weren’t on any spreadsheet, but still happened anyway. However, instead of beating myself up over it, I use it. 

If I see a pattern, I adjust. I stop pretending we’re going to suddenly spend less in an area that clearly keeps coming up. That shift alone has made everything feel more manageable. I’m not constantly feeling behind or like I’m failing some invisible standard. I’m just working with what’s real. 

Then, I look ahead, because the second half of the year always has its own rhythm. Back-to-school costs start creeping in. The holidays are closer than they feel. Travel, if we’re trying to make it happen, needs to be thought about early. Plus, in military life, there’s always the possibility of schedule changes, training, or shifts in income that can throw everything off if you’re not paying attention.  I don’t try to predict everything. I just try not to be surprised by the obvious. 

I also take a minute to look at income, because that’s not always as steady as people assume. Between military obligations, civilian work, and any side income, things can fluctuate more than you expect. I want to know if what’s coming in still lines up with what’s going out.  If it doesn’t, I’d rather adjust now than feel that stress later. 

One of the biggest things I’ve learned is to give myself some breathing room.  Not a perfect savings plan. Not some picture-perfect financial goal that looks good on paper but doesn’t match real life. Just margin. Enough to handle the things that always come up, because they always do. Something with the car. Something with the house. Something for the kids. It’s never nothing. 

Being part of a military family has taught me that flexibility is not optional. So, I’ve stopped trying to make my finances rigid and started letting them move with us.  That doesn’t mean being careless. It means being aware. 

It means checking in before things feel tight. Making small adjustments instead of waiting until something feels overwhelming. Letting go of the idea that sticking to the original plan is the goal, because the goal isn’t perfection.  The goal is stability. 

Mid-year isn’t about starting over. It’s about realigning. Looking at where you are, where you’re headed, and making sure your money is actually supporting your life the way you need it to. 

Honestly, that kind of check-in has made more of a difference for me than any perfectly planned budget ever did. 

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Guard Life! 

Don’t worry, I’m not one of those moms who likes to gatekeep her secrets; I will share my favorite things to ensure you spend your Back to School time more than just surviving and maybe even thriving! My kids never complain when I pack their favorite Lunchables in their lunchbox! I don’t know about you, but when I was a kid, only the coolest kids had those on the regular! Don’t tell my kids, but I still enjoy this nostalgic treat from time to time! Insert another nostalgic favorite with… OREO Minis. I don’t know why everything that is bite-sized just happens to taste better; this goes for both kids and adults! Now you’ll want a delicious drink to wash it down with, and you can’t ever go wrong with Capri Sun Roarin’ Waters. The sweetness of a juice and the hydration of a water, this is something both kids and adults love.

 Now that you have the perfect lunch packed, it’s time to feed those kiddos before, or often in my case, as you head out the door! I’ve got the perfect items to ensure you’re on time to the Drop Off Line! My oldest loves to grab Too Good: Strawberry Banana, and I love that he starts his day with 5 grams of protein! My two middle kids are always grabbing Danimals: Strawberry & Mixed Berry. They love these smoothies because they can continue to be on the go, and I love them because they’re made for growing kids! I can’t forget the littlest member of my crew, and for her, I’m always grabbing Happy Baby: Bananas, Raspberries & Oats. This is a favorite of hers, and they’re not kidding she’s one Happy Baby! I know that these favorites of ours will ensure you actually get to drink your coffee warm on the way to school! 

We did it! We survived drop off and we finally have a moment for ourselves. This is the perfect time to make a lunch that’s not only delicious but filled with fiber and protein that leaves us feeling great! What is on the menu you ask? Well I’m grabbing StarKist Chunk Light Tuna and another pantry staple, Bush’s Original Baked Beans. I always keep these items on hand because they’re the perfect quick lunch that I can feel good about! However, all this driving has left me quite parched. I love to treat myself to a Pink Lady Apple Health-Aid Kombucha. I know that this will help me better prepare for the calm before the storm…AKA School Pickup! 

The one thing that they don’t prepare you for in motherhood is all the germs that kids will bring home. Back to School time is a prime example of that, so before you head to get your favorite sidekicks, make sure you’re stocking your house, car, bathroom, purse, and their backpack with the tried and true favorite, Kleenex Facial Tissues. I love that these tissues are gentle enough for little noses, but still get the job done when sniffles enter the scene! 

I don’t know about you, but a practice run of my day sure does make me feel better about Back to School time looming on the horizon. Another thing that always makes me feel better is a good giveaway, so I’m excited to share that from July 13th through September 13th, five lucky winners will each receive a $100 Commissary Gift Card. Enter at MMSGiveaways.com. If that giveaway didn’t get you in the Back to School spirit, we’ll also be making a donation to the Fisher House Foundation Scholarship for Military Children Program. The program awards 500 scholarships of $2,000 each to military children at participating commissaries around the world every year.

So even though back-to-school time may feel a little chaotic with a trip to your favorite local Commissary, you will enter this era thriving and not just surviving! 

They’re the free programs, services, and support resources available through the military community. From financial counseling and career support to child care assistance and crisis resources, these programs can help families navigate challenges, reduce stress, and avoid costly setbacks. Here are some of the resources every military family should know about.  

Military OneSource – If there’s one resource every military family should bookmark today, it’s Military OneSource. Military OneSource provides free support, expert consultations, and confidential assistance for a wide variety of military life challenges.

• Available services include:
  • Financial counseling and money management support
  • Budget planning assistance
  • Career coaching
  • Relationship resources
  • Parenting support
  • Elder care consultations
  • PCS and transition assistance
  • Confidential non-medical counseling
• Whether you’re creating a budget, preparing for a move, exploring a new career opportunity, or navigating a major life change, Military OneSource can connect you with trusted experts at no cost. 
• Phone: 800-342-9647
• Website: militaryonesource.mil
• Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Financial Emergencies Happen – Even the most carefully planned budget can be impacted by unexpected expenses. A vehicle breaks down. Emergency travel becomes necessary. Housing costs increase unexpectedly. A family emergency arises. Military relief organizations exist to help eligible military families through these situations before financial hardship becomes overwhelming. 

• Army Emergency Relief (AER) – Army Emergency Relief provides financial assistance to eligible Soldiers and their families facing unexpected financial challenges.
  • Website: armyemergencyrelief.org 
• Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) – The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society offers financial assistance and educational programs designed to help Sailors, Marines, and their families achieve financial stability.
  • Website: nmcrs.org 
• Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) – The Air Force Aid Society supports Airmen, Guardians, and their families through financial assistance and community support programs. 
  • Website: afas.org
• Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) – Coast Guard Mutual Assistance provides financial and educational support programs for Coast Guard members and their families.
  • Website: cgmahq.org 
• Depending on eligibility and circumstances, assistance may be available for: 
  • Emergency travel
  • Rent or housing expenses
  • Utility bills
  • Vehicle repairs
  • Essential living expenses
  • Disaster-related needs
  • Family emergencies
• Knowing these organizations exist before a crisis occurs can save both money and stress.  

Protect Your Financial Wellness by Supporting Your Mental Wellness – Financial stress rarely exists on its own.  Major life challenges, deployments, relationship challenges, caregiving responsibilities, and mental health concerns can all impact a family’s financial well-being. That’s why military families have access to several free support resources.  

• Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC) – Military and Family Life Counselors provide free, confidential, non-medical counseling to help military families navigate everyday challenges. 
  • Support is available for: 
    • Stress management
    • Relationship concerns
    • Parenting challenges
    • Deployment-related stress
    • Grief and loss
    • Military transitions
  • Contact your installation’s Military and Family Support Center to learn about available services.
• Installation Behavioral Health Resources – Most military installations offer behavioral health and mental health services through military treatment facilities and support centers. Taking advantage of available resources early can help prevent challenges from becoming larger issues later. 

Career Resources for Military Families – Military families often face career disruptions to PCS moves, deployments, and changing duty assignments.  Fortunately, several military-focused programs exist to help spouses and service members build long-term career success. 

• Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) – The Military Spouse Employment Partnership connects military spouses with employer partners committed to recruiting, hiring, promoting, and retaining military spouse talent.  These employers understand military life and unique challenges military spouses face. 
• SECO Career Center – The Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) program provides: 
  • Career coaching
  • Resume assistance
  • Interview preparation
  • Education guidance
  • Employment resources
  • Learn more through Military OneSource. 
• Investing in your career can create long-term financial stability for your family, and these resources are available at no cost. 

Child Care Support for Military Families – Child care is one of the largest expenses many families face.  Military families may be eligible for programs that help connect them with quality care and reduce out-of-pocket costs. 

• Child Care Aware® of America – Child Care Aware of America helps eligible military families access quality child care and fee assistance programs. 
  • Website: childcareaware.org
• MilitaryChildCare.com – MilitaryChildCare.com is the Department of War’s gateway for military-operated and military-subsidized child care programs worldwide. For many families, these programs can provide both financial savings and peace of mind. 
  • Website: militarychildcare.com 

Resources for Veterans – Veterans and their families have access to a wide range of benefits and services through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. 

• Department of Veterans Affairs
  • The VA offers benefits and services that support Veterans throughout every stage of life, including: 
    • Health care services
    • Mental health care
    • PTSD treatment
    • Telehealth appointments
    • Women’s health services
    • Caregiver support
    • Housing resources
    • Benefits assistance 
  • Phone: 877-222-VETS (8387)
  • Website: va.gov
  • Many Veterans are eligible for programs and services they may not realize are available, making it worthwhile to explore available benefits regularly. 

Save These Numbers Before You Need Them – Some resources are important enough to keep readily available. 

• Veterans Crisis Line – Free, confidential support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. 
  • Call: 988, then Press 1
  • Text: 838255
  • Website: veteranscrisisline.net
• Emergency Services – If someone is in immediate danger or at risk of harming themselves or others: 
  • Call: 911
  • Visit: Your nearest emergency room

A Different Kind of Savings

At My Military Savings, we’re passionate about helping military families save money, but some of the most valuable savings don’t come from coupons, discounts, or cashback offers. They come from knowing where to turn when life becomes challenging. 

The right resource at the right time can help prevent financial hardship, reduce stress, support a career transition, strengthen a family, or provide help during a crisis. Save this guide. Bookmark it. Share it with a fellow military family, because one of the smartest investments you can make isn’t something you buy. It’s knowing how to access the benefits, programs, and support you’ve earned through military service. 

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

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!

The combination of emotional stress and financial pressure can make this time of year especially challenging. However, with some planning and a few smart budgeting strategies, military families can reduce the stress and keep school expenses from overwhelming their finances.

Why Back-to-School Season Can Be Harder for Military Families

• Military children often experience far more school transitions than their civilian peers.
• A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move may mean:
  • New schools
  • Different academic standards
  • New sports or extracurricular fees
  • Different school supply requirements
  • New childcare arrangements
  • Emotional adjustment for both parents and children
• For dual-military families or single-parent service members, the challenges can multiply quickly when deployments, training schedules, or shift work are added to the mix.
• Back-to-school season is not just about buying notebooks and backpacks—it is about rebuilding routines, stability, and support systems.

Start with a Back-to-School Budget

• Before shopping begins, create a realistic spending plan.
• List expected expenses such as:
  • School supplies
  • Clothing and shoes
  • Activity fees
  • Sports equipment
  • Lunch expenses
  • Technology needs
  • Childcare costs
  • Transportation costs
• Many families underestimate how quickly “small” purchases add up.
• A few $10 and $20 purchases scattered across several weeks can quietly turn into hundreds of dollars.

School Supply Costs Add Up Quickly

• School supply lists seem to grow every year, especially when families have multiple children.
• Common expenses may include:
  • Backpacks
  • Calculators
  • Binders and folders
  • Headphones
  • Art supplies
  • Classroom donations
  • Tablets or laptops
• Military families who PCS during summer months may face even higher costs because schools in different districts often require completely different supplies.

Budget-Friendly Shopping Strategies

• Shop with a List
  • Avoid impulse purchases by sticking closely to required school supply lists.
  • Stores place attractive “extras” throughout back-to-school displays, making overspending easy.
• Compare Prices Before Buying
  • Prices vary widely between:
    • Big box stores
    • Dollar stores
    • Office supply stores
    • Online retailers
    • Warehouse clubs
  • Buying everything in one location is convenient, but not always cheapest.
• Reuse What Still Works
  • Children do not always need brand-new supplies every year.
  • Check for reusable:
    • Backpacks
    • Lunch boxes
    • Binders
    • Pencil cases
    • Calculators
  • Even reusing a few items can significantly reduce costs for larger families.
• Spread Out Purchases
  • If possible, buy some items gradually throughout the summer instead of all at once.
  • This helps avoid a large financial hit in one paycheck cycle.
• Watch for Military Discounts
  • Some retailers offer military discounts during back-to-school season.
  • Local military family organizations, churches, and community groups may also host:
    • Free school supply giveaways
    • Backpack drives
    • Clothing assistance programs
  • There is no shame in using available resources when times are tight.
• Don’t Forget Tax-Free Weekends
  • Many states offer tax-free shopping weekends before school starts.
  • These events may allow families to save on:
    • School supplies
    • Clothing
    • Computers
    • Shoes
  • For larger families, those savings can add up quickly.
  • Military families should check both:
    • Their current duty station state
    • Their legal state of residence
  • Depending on timing and location, one state may offer better savings opportunities than another.

Childcare Costs Can Become a Major Expense

• For dual-military couples and working military spouses, childcare is often one of the largest back-to-school expenses.
• Challenges may include:
  • Before-school care
  • After-school programs
  • School break coverage
  • Waiting lists at Child Development Centers (CDCs)
  • Shift work scheduling conflicts
• Costs can rise significantly during:
  • Deployments
  • Temporary duty assignments (TDYs)
  • Training periods
• Families should explore available military resources such as:
  • Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN)
  • Installation youth programs
  • Fee assistance programs
  • School-age care options on base
• Planning early is critical because childcare availability can disappear quickly before the school year starts.

Avoid Using Credit Cards for School Shopping

• Back-to-school shopping can become dangerous when families rely heavily on credit cards for routine expenses.
• It is easy to justify purchases with thoughts like:
  • “The kids need it.”
  • “We’ll pay it off later.”
  • “It’s only temporary.”
• But carrying school-related debt into the holiday season can create long-term financial strain.
• If money is tight:
  • Prioritize essentials first
  • Delay non-urgent purchases
  • Look for gently used items
  • Ask schools about assistance programs
• Many schools quietly help families in need, especially military families dealing with recent moves or deployments.

Back-to-school season can stretch both the emotions and finances of military families. Between school supplies, childcare, PCS transitions, and emotional adjustments, the pressure can feel overwhelming at times, but careful planning, realistic budgeting, and smart spending decisions can help families navigate the season successfully.

Military life already brings enough uncertainty. A solid back-to-school plan can provide one small but important sense of stability for both parents and children. While backpacks, notebooks, and new shoes matter, the most important thing military children carry into a new school year is the strength and support of the family beside them.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finances!

AT doesn’t just pull you out of your routine. It stretches everything around you: your time, your energy, your budget, your household. If you’re a parent or balancing multiple roles, you feel that stretch immediately.

Every year, I’ve learned to stop pretending I’m going to “wing it” and instead just plan for what I already know is coming. 

Childcare is always the first thing on my mind. Schedules don’t line up the way you want them to. Report times are early, days run long, and field time does not care about your normal routine. Even with a solid plan in place, something always shifts. I’ve gotten to the point where I just expect to need backup options, extended hours, or a last-minute save. The peace of mind alone is worth budgeting for it. 

Then, there’s the reality of being exhausted. During AT, I am not the version of myself who meal preps and makes intentional grocery runs. I’m grabbing coffee, picking up food on the way home, and calling it a win if everyone is fed. Could I try and be more disciplined? Sure. Am I going to after a full day of training? No. So, I stopped pretending and started planning for convenience instead of guilt. 

Uniforms and gear will humble you every single time. You can lay everything out perfectly and still end up needing something: a missing patch, boots that suddenly don’t cut it, or something that disappears at the worst time. I always leave room in my budget for those last-minute fixes because they are not “ifs,” they are “whens.”

Then, there’s the part people don’t always see: the impact on your income and your normal workflow. AT doesn’t always fit neatly into your civilian life. Maybe that means missed opportunities, using PTO, or just a temporary shift in how money is coming in. Even when everything is supportive on paper, it still creates a ripple. I’ve learned to respect that and plan ahead for it instead of being caught off guard. 

At home, everything keeps moving, just without you there to help manage it. If anything, it becomes more expensive. More convenience, more support, more little things that make life easier for the people holding it down while you’re gone. That matters to me. I want my kids to feel stability, not stress, even when my schedule is anything but normal.

Honestly, the part that caught me off guard the most was coming home. No one really talks about that reset. You’re tired, your house needs attention, your routine is off, and you’re jumping right back into real life. I’ve started planning for that too: restocking groceries, giving myself an easy night, catching up on the things that had to wait. It makes the transition feel a lot less overwhelming. 

Annual Training isn’t just about showing up in uniform. It’s about holding your entire life together while you do it. The biggest mindset shift for me has been this: I’m not budgeting to be perfect. I’m budgeting to feel steady. Steady enough to focus on the mission. Steady enough to take care of my kids. Steady enough to not feel blindsided by things I already know are coming, because the truth is…none of this is actually unexpected. We just don’t say it out loud enough. 

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Guard Life! 

As an actor and stuntman in my mid-30s, I love seeing the newest releases on the biggest screen possible. Action movies in IMAX? Mandatory. Animated movies “for the kids” that I absolutely wanted to see too? Also mandatory, especially when my friends were the animators. Something about summer movie season feels nostalgic in the best way.

The good news? Movie theaters are actually making it affordable this year.

With ticket prices getting a little wild lately, the Summer 2026 theater deals are incredible. Whether you’re trying to entertain kids during summer break, survive the heat with some air conditioning, or just want cheap date nights, here are the best movie theater deals happening this summer.

Regal Cinemas Is Bringing Back the $1 Movies

Regal’s Summer Movie Express might honestly be the MVP of summer break. From June 1 through August 13, Regal is offering $1 family movie tickets starting at 11 a.m. Monday through Thursday. Which, in this 2026 economy, feels almost suspiciously affordable.

The lineup is stacked with family favorites including:

• Kung Fu Panda 4
• The Garfield Movie
• A Minecraft Movie
• Despicable Me 4
• Paddington in Peru
• And more!

I would fully watch Paddington in Peru even without kids present. No shame.

Regal is also offering:

• $3 off Snack Packs
• Discounts on Dippin’ Dots
• Affordable weekday morning showtimes that scream “summer nostalgia”

I wish this existed when I was younger because my entire childhood would’ve been spent in air conditioning watching animated movies and eating blue raspberry ICEEs.

AMC Is Going All In on Summer Deals

AMC is making a serious play for movie lovers this summer, and… they’re crushing it. The AMC Summer Movie Camp runs from June 22 through August 12 with discounted family movie tickets every Monday and Wednesday.

Featured movies include:

• How to Train Your Dragon
• Sonic the Hedgehog 3
• Muppet Treasure Island
• And others!

Which is one of the most random and elite combinations possible. But the real AMC deal this summer is for Stubs members.

AMC is offering:

• 50% off regular evening tickets on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
• Daily discount matinees for earlier showtimes
• Summer Movie Camp discounts
• And the absolute game changer: AMC A-List – which I am 100% a part of!

AMC A-List Might Be the Best Deal for Movie Addicts

Look, I’ll say it. If you’re someone who sees multiple movies a month, AMC A-List becomes dangerously worth it. A-List lets you watch multiple movies per week, including premium formats like IMAX and Dolby Cinema, for one monthly price. Which means if you’re the type of person who says things like:

“I’ll probably only see one movie this month…” and then somehow ends up seeing four?

This thing pays for itself fast. As someone who loves action films, stunt-heavy movies, and giant blockbuster releases, Dolby and IMAX alone make A-List tempting. Watching explosions shake the seats is part of the experience. Also, summer 2026 has so many releases coming out that I already know I’d abuse this membership immediately.

Cinemark Quietly Has One of the Best Deals

Cinemark’s Summer Movie Clubhouse is another insanely good option for families.

From June 1 through August 6, Cinemark is offering $1.75 movie tickets for select family-friendly films during Wednesday morning showtimes at 9:30 a.m. Some locations are even adding extra show days.

They’re also offering:

• $1 off snack packs
• $1 off popcorn and drink combos

It is weirdly fun seeing movies early in the morning during summer. You haven’t fully experienced summer until you’ve eaten popcorn before noon while sitting in freezing AC watching animated animals save the world.

Marcus Theatres Has the Ultimate Family Pass

I have never heard of this theatre before but the Marcus Theatres is going full “parents, we got you” mode this summer.

Their Kids Movie Magic program includes 10 different summer movies, and you can either:

• Buy individual tickets for $3 each
• Or grab the full Summer Kids Movie Magic Passport for $15

That passport gets you access to all 10 movies, which is honestly an absurdly good deal.

Marcus is also offering:

• $3.50 popcorn
• $3.50 sodas
• Discounted food and drinks throughout the program

Movie theaters are basically competing to become the official summer survival plan for parents. With these deals, you can actually enjoy it without spending your entire paycheck on popcorn and tickets. This summer, grab the oversized soda, show up way too early for trailers, and go watch something loud on the biggest screen possible. I’ll be the guy in the back row quietly judging stunt choreography, and looking for my friends in the films, while pretending I’m “studying for work.”

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

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!

As a huge thank you to military families past and present, you have the opportunity to enter an amazing sweepstakes. In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Stories of Service is giving away FIFTY $100 gift cards. And what’s even better is that if you share your story and are selected as a winner, you can pick between a Commissary or Exchange gift card.

It’s so easy to enter. Just head over to their website and tap the link, enter your info and join the celebration! You have until July 6th to enter, so don’t miss your chance.