Military families can have unique financial challenges during the deployment. Generally the day-to-day management of the budget is the responsibility of the spouse at home, who may not be accustomed or prepared to handle the family finances. Family budgets may need to be adjusted, especially in the case of reserve and National Guard members, whose military pay may be significantly less than what they received in their civilian jobs. If the need arises, members should seek help from the bishop or branch president.

Sometimes both the spouse at home and the deployed member can exhibit financial irresponsibility. Some may go on spending sprees that can cause serious financial hardships. Others may feel that they need to be rewarded or compensated for enduring the increased responsibilities associated with family separation. There is also a tendency for the spouse at home to indulge the children while the service member is away, rationalizing that such indulgences are compensation for the loss of daily interaction with the deployed spouse. These indulgences can cause serious financial and emotional problems and can be a source of discord when the service member returns. Members should be aware of these tendencies and strive to avoid them.

The pamphlet One for the Money: Guide to Family Finance (item no. 33293), available through Church distribution centers, is an excellent resource to help families get out of debt and establish good financial discipline. Also, to help ensure financial well-being, service members are encouraged to take advantage of the military's briefings and resources regarding power of attorney and Servicemen's Group Life Insurance.

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