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The Military Money Manual Podcast

Military Money: Investing, spending, saving, financial freedom, and getting out of debt. Real world tactics and strategies for active duty, Guard and Reserve, military spouses, veterans, enlisted, and officers. The Military Money Manual Podcast is all about achieving financial independence while you serve in the US military. Spencer and Jamie, Air Force officers, share everything you need to know to achieve your financial goals while you serve in our Armed Forces. Learn about Military Credit Card annual fee waivers exclusively for active duty, Guard, Reserve, and military spouses in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at https://militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 Find Spencer's 5-star rated book, The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or shop.militarymoneymanual.com Special military credit card benefits, points and miles, investing in the TSP, financial independence, retiring early, military FIRE, maximizing military pay, deployment finances: Jamie and Spencer cover it all. Your hosts are Spencer Reese and Jamie. Spencer served for 12 years in the US Air Force flying C-17 aircraft around the globe. Jamie is currently an active duty Air Force officer.

Buy Now, Pay Later Traps for Military Families with Lacey Langford #195

Dont' fall for these traps! This "convenient" payment option could be sabotaging your financial future and even your security clearance!

Military financial expert Lacey Langford returns to sound the alarm on what she calls "the new payday loan," Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services. With over $170 billion in BNPL transactions this year and 91.5 million Americans using these services, this seemingly innocent payment option is creating a financial minefield for military families.

Main Topics Covered:

  • What Buy Now, Pay Later really is
  • The psychology behind BNPL - how it removes the "pain" of spending and makes overspending dangerously easy
  • Hidden dangers for military families:
    • Multiple small debts that are impossible to track
    • Late fees and additional charges that can turn a $5 purchase into a $35 expense
    • Potential impact on security clearances as reporting to credit bureaus increases
    • Marriage and relationship stress from hidden debt
  • The trap of "death by a thousand cuts" - why small payments add up to big problems
  • How BNPL differs from traditional credit - and why it's actually worse in many ways
  • Recovery strategies for those already caught in the BNPL web
  • Why layaway was better - and how its disappearance pushed consumers toward dangerous alternatives

Resources & Links:

  • Lacey Langford's website: Milmo.co
  • Podcast: The Milmo Show (available on Apple, Spotify, and all podcast platforms)
  • Conference: MilMoneyCon: milmoneycon.com
    • UPDATE! Dates are announced now! May 6-8, 2026 in Savannah, GA
  • Social Media: @Milmo (all platforms) or @MilMoneyCon
  • Military financial counseling: Available free through base aid societies and Military OneSource

If you're already using BNPL services, don't panic - but do take action. This episode provides a clear roadmap for getting back on track before small conveniences become big problems.

Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor

Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card.

Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Published on: September 22, 2025
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Amex Platinum Military 2025 Update: $895 Annual Fee Waiver, Unlock $3,500+ in Annual Value + New Benefits #194

New benefits are available immediately as of 9/18/25!!

Learn how to apply for the  The Platinum Card® from American Express: https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/

Learn more about American Express military annual fee waivers: https://militarymoneymanual.com/american-express-military/

Learn how to maximize your military credit card benefits in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course: https://militarymoneymanual.com/umc3/

Episode Description

Hosts Spencer Reese and Jamie discuss the major refresh of the American Express Platinum card, including a significant annual fee increase to $895 that military service members and spouses don't have to pay thanks to the Military Lending Act (MLA). They break down the extensive new benefits and explain how to maximize value from this popular military credit card.

Topics Covered:

New Benefits & Credits (2025 Refresh) (AVAILABLE NOW!!!!)

  • $600 Fine Hotels & Resorts credit ($300 semi-annually)
  • $400 Resy restaurant credit ($100 quarterly)
  • $300 Lululemon credit ($75 quarterly)
  • $300 Digital Entertainment credit ($25 monthly)
  • $200 Oura Ring credit (annual)
  • $120 Uber One membership credit (annual)
  • Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) Sterling Status

Existing Benefits

  • $200 Uber Cash ($15/month, $35 in December)
  • $209 Clear Plus credit
  • $200 airline fee credit
  • $155 Walmart Plus credit
  • $100 Saks credit ($50 semi-annually)
  • $300 Equinox credit
  • 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels
  • Hilton Gold and Marriott Gold status
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit

Military Lending Act (MLA) Coverage

Welcome Bonus & Value

  • 175,000 Membership Rewards points after $8,000 spend in 6 months
  • Cash value: $1,750-$1,925
  • Travel partner transfer potential: $3,500+
  • 25%+ effective cash back rate

Resources & Links Mentioned:

  • Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course: militarymoneymanual.com/UMC3 (100% free, 5-day email course)
  • Fine Hotels & Resorts Search: maxfhr.com
  • Points Valuation: points.yeah (travel redemption research)
  • MLA Database: Google "Military Lending Act database" to verify coverage
  • American Express Website: americanexpress.com (for enrollment in benefits)
  • Resy App: Restaurant reservations that trigger the quarterly credit

Key Takeaways:

  • Total annual benefits exceed $2,500 in cash value
  • Multiple Amex Platinum cards multiply benefits (spouse can get their own)
  • Must enroll in many benefits through Amex app/website
  • Check quarterly vs. semi-annual vs. annual benefit periods
  • Verify MLA database status BEFORE applying
  • Consider pairing with Chase Sapphire Reserve for maximum value

Important Reminders:

  • Only for those who pay off credit cards monthly (no debt)
  • $8,000 minimum spend may be challenging for junior enlisted
  • Benefits require enrollment - don't assume automatic activation
  • Military spouses must be properly listed in DEERS
  • Some benefits (Uber Cash) only work in the U.S.

About the Hosts:

Spencer - Creator of MilitaryMoneyManual.com and the Ultimate Military Credit Cards course

Jamie - Co-host and military finance expert

Contact & Social:

Episode Notes:

Recording discusses the 2025 refresh of the American Express Platinum card. The hosts emphasize this is only for service members who can responsibly manage credit cards and pay balances in full monthly. They recommend both the Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve as the two essential cards for military families who qualify for MLA fee waivers.

For detailed analysis and current offers, visit MilitaryMoneyManual.com or search "Amex Platinum Military" for Spencer's comprehensive guides.

Military Money Mentor

Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor

Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card.

Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Published on: September 18, 2025
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Find Your Military Financial Community | MilMoneyCon with Lacey Langford #193

"Rising tides lift all ships!"

MilMoneyCon 2026 dates just released! May 26-28, 2026 in Savannah, GA. See https://milmoneycon.com/register/

The military finance community doesn't have to operate in silos. Through strategic networking and mentorship, veterans and military spouses can accelerate their finance careers while building a supportive ecosystem that lifts everyone up.

In this episode, we sit down with Lacey Langford, founder of MilMoneyCon and host of The Milmo Show, to explore how she transformed her frustration with career-building challenges into the premier conference for military financial professionals.

Key Topics Covered:

Military Background and Career Transition

  • The mentorship gap that veterans face when entering civilian finance careers
  • Why starting from "ground zero" shouldn't be necessary for experienced service members

Why She Created MilMoneyCon

  • Identifying duplication of efforts in the military finance space
  • Connecting innovators who didn't know about each other's work
  • Bridging the gap between DOD resources and community awareness
  • Learning curve of event planning without prior experience

Target Audience and Conference Value

  • Active duty members considering finance careers post-service
  • Military spouses entering the financial field
  • Seasoned professionals seeking networking and growth opportunities
  • Supporting businesses and organizations serving the military community

Entrepreneurship Tips for Military Families

  • PCS-proof career strategies and remote work opportunities
  • Portable skills
  • Leveraging unique military spouse skill sets for online services
  • The reality check: every business owner is in sales and marketing

Common Entrepreneurial Pitfalls

  • Underestimating the sales and marketing requirements
  • Creating products without validating market demand
  • Failing to identify what sets you apart from competitors
  • Not understanding the value proposition clearly

Resources and Links:

 

Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor

Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card.

Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Published on: September 15, 2025
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College Finances for Military Families | Kate Horrell's New Book #192

Is the wrong strategy for your GI Bill costing you over $100,000?!

Today's guest is Kate Horrell, author of the new book "College Finances for Military Families," reveals why the "fair share" approach to education benefits might be the most expensive mistake military families make, GI Bill basics, and all the things to know about college for your military kids.

Key Topics:

GI Bill Transfer Strategy

  • Why transferring your GI Bill at exactly 6 years of service is important
  • The one-time 4-year service obligation that trips up many service members
  • How to add dependents and redistribute benefits after initial transfer
  • Documentation tips to protect your family's benefits

Beyond Equal Distribution

  • Real case study: How strategic planning saved one family $110,000
  • Why thinking "flexibly" about family resources beats rigid equal splits
  • When to give one child the entire GI Bill and another child all the 529 funds

529 Plans and Military Families

  • State residency confusion solved for military families
  • Qualified expenses include K-12 private school, technology, and more
  • How grandparents can contribute while maximizing tax advantages
  • Why "it's too late to start" thinking costs families money

Yellow Ribbon Program Essentials

  • The motorcycle and sidecar analogy that clarifies everything (Yellow Ribbon always goes along with the GI Bill- can't be separate)
  • How "full Yellow Ribbon" schools eliminate out-of-pocket tuition costs

Maximizing Benefits for Veterans

  • Why veterans aren't optimizing their benefits like military families do
  • Strategic timing for undergraduate vs. graduate school usage
  • Location arbitrage opportunities with Military Housing Allowance

Links mentioned today:

Bottom Line: Stop thinking about education benefits as individual entitlements and start thinking about them as family resources to be strategically deployed. The difference could save your family tens of thousands of dollars.

 

Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor

Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card.

Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Published on: September 8, 2025
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Guard & Reserve: Financial Flexibility and Career Stability with Sam Lewis #191

Think your military career ends with active duty? Think again. Sam Lewis reveals how Guard and Reserve service can unlock financial freedom, career flexibility, and long-term stability...without sacrificing family life or future goals

Guest: Sam Lewis, CFP®, ChFC®, MQFP
Founder of SJL Financial | Delaware Air National Guard | Member of Military Financial Advisors Association

Key Topics Covered:

  • Transitioning from active duty to Guard/Reserve service
  • Flexibility in career paths, retraining, and deployment options
  • AGR (Active Guard Reserve) positions and lifestyle benefits
  • Retirement points system and pension planning
  • VA disability eligibility and pay coordination
  • Healthcare options: TRICARE Reserve Select vs. civilian plans
  • GI Bill usage, transfer strategies, and state-level tuition assistance
  • Dual-income household stability and homeownership advantages
  • Civilian employer benefits during military service (e.g., double-dipping, 401k match)
  • State-level Guard benefits: education, emergency relief, childcare subsidies
  • Managing TSP and 401k contributions across military and civilian careers
  • Importance of understanding retention vs. accession standards for reentry
  • Strategic use of military leave and maximizing compensation

Resources Mentioned:

Remember: Your military career doesn’t have to end (or begin) with active duty. Guard and Reserve service offers flexibility, financial stability, and continued access to valuable benefits, often with fewer disruptions to family life and career goals.

 

Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor

Over 19,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card.

Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Published on: September 1, 2025
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Military Life Insurance with Jerry Quinn, Armed Forces Mutual (AAFMAA) #190

How much life insurance do military servicemembers need? What about military spouses? Is SGLI enough?

In this episode, Spencer Reese and Jamie sit down with Jerry Quinn, a 40-year Army veteran and executive at Armed Forces Mutual (formerly AAFMAA - American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association), to discuss everything military families need to know about life insurance.

Topics Covered:

SGLI (Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance)

  • Understanding the $500,000 term policy for service members
  • Spouse coverage rider ($100,000)
  • Coverage for Guard and Reserve members
  • What happens to SGLI after military separation

Life Insurance Planning Strategies

  • The DIME-L method for calculating coverage needs:
    • Debt
    • Income replacement
    • Mortgage
    • Education
    • Legacy
  • "10x income" rule of thumb
  • Stacking multiple insurance policies for comprehensive coverage
  • Term vs. whole life insurance considerations

Armed Forces Mutual Services

  • No war clause or aviation clause coverage
  • Survivor Assistance Services (SAS) program
  • Death claim processing (often under 30 days)
  • Special 501(c)(23) nonprofit status

Transition Planning

  • When to apply for life insurance before leaving military service
  • Health considerations and timing
  • Converting from SGLI to civilian coverage

Resources Mentioned:

  • Armed Forces Mutual Website: AAFMAA.com
  • Military Survivor Planning Checklist (available with free subscription)
  • Life Insurance Calculators (on AAFMAA website)
  • Career Accession Program (CAP) Loan: $5,000 at 2.5% fixed rate for 60 months

Additional Resources:

  • Daniel Kopp, CFP: Wise Stewardship Financial Planning
    • Specialist in military widow/widower financial planning
    • Military to Financial Planner Podcast
  • Military Aid Societies:
    • Army Emergency Relief Society
    • Air Force Aid Society
    • Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
    • Coast Guard Mutual Assistance

Key Takeaways:

  • SGLI is an excellent deal at ~$30/month for $500,000 coverage
  • Many military families need supplemental life insurance beyond SGLI
  • Apply for additional coverage 6-12 months before military separation
  • Update beneficiary designations regularly
  • Armed Forces Mutual provides specialized support for Gold Star families

About the Guest:

Jerry Quinn served 40 years in the U.S. Army (7 years active duty, 33 years National Guard), retiring as a Field Artillery Officer in June 2025. He now serves as an executive at Armed Forces Mutual, a 146-year-old organization exclusively serving military and veteran families with specialized life insurance products and survivor assistance services.

Contact Information:

Armed Forces Mutual

  • Website: AAFMAA.com
  • Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram (@armedforcesmutual)
  • Subscribe for free resources and calculators

Hosts:

  • Spencer
  • Jamie

For those needing immediate assistance with military survivor benefits and life insurance claims, Armed Forces Mutual's Survivor Assistance Services team provides comprehensive support including VA claims coordination, DFAS benefit reconciliation, and burial assistance guidance.

Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor

Over 19,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card.

  • https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/

  • https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/

Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

 

Published on: August 25, 2025
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Mini-Retirements and Sabbaticals for Military Veterans or Retirees with Justin Peters #189

Are Mini Retirements, Optionality, and Side Hustles Possible in the Military?

From seven-month sabbaticals to turning a hobby into a thriving side business, Justin Peters from the FI Minded Podcast shares how dialing back work can supercharge your career, creativity, and financial freedom.

Key Points & Topics

  • Part-time work and mini sabbaticals
  • Recognizing burnout and funding a seven-month break
  • Differentiating sabbatical versus mini retirement
  • Logistics: nest egg size, remote options, healthcare planning
  • Optionality and financial independence mindset
  • Dual-track strategy: accumulate wealth and improve life in tandem
  • CoastFi and SlowFi as flavors of the 25x rule
  • Pulling back on work without derailing long-term goals
  • Turning a podcast hobby into a side hustle
  • Initial struggles with audio editing and finding a partner
  • Leveraging serendipity, referrals, and niche communities
  • Advising small business owners: start with five imperfect episodes
  • Intentional time off
  • Avoiding passive downtime—set routines for hobby and health
  • First two-week recovery period, then structured creative blocks
  • Sharing your plan: scripts for family and friends
  • Networking and community building
  • FinCon conference connections
  • Toastmasters for public-speaking confidence and lasting bonds
  • Online FI communities and Facebook groups for accountability
  • Military-friendly breaks
  • Career Intermission Program: up to 36 months and healthcare continuity depending on your branch of service
  • Guard and Reserve options to maintain benefits and part-time earnings

Links Mentioned

Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor

Over 19,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card.

  • https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/

  • https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/

Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Published on: August 18, 2025
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Military Money Mentor | Financial Coaching for Military Families with Spencer Reese & Jamie #188

Financial Coaching & Money Mentor Opportunities

Feeling confident in your research but stalled when it comes to taking action on your military family's financial plan? From TSP questions to credit card strategies, this episode explains how an hour with a dedicated coach can transform hesitation into clear, personalized next steps.

Key Points & Topics

  • Defining financial coaching vs. advisory services

    • No sales pitches, no commissions, no product upsells
    • Confidential, unbiased guidance tailored to your goals

  • Who benefits most

    • Active duty, Guard, Reserve, military spouses, cadets, midshipmen
    • Dual-military couples, high-net-worth families, soon-to-commission officers

  • Typical coaching session structure

    • Pre-call questionnaire to customize the conversation
    • One-hour call via Google Meet 
    • Post-call recap email with transcript and bullet-pointed action steps

  • Sample coaching topics

    • TSP vs. traditional/Roth IRA decisions
    • Career starter loan considerations
    • Financial therapy: uncovering money scripts and spending habits
    • Helping improve communication with your spouse around money
    • Credit card strategies, MLA/SCRA protections, maximizing points redemptions
    • State tax benefits and Military Spouse Residency Relief Act

  • Booking details and logistics

Links Mentioned

Stop second-guessing and start implementing your financial plan today.

Book your one-hour military money mentor session today and walk away with a clear roadmap to your goals.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 11, 2025
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Credit Cards for Military Q&A | Military Credit Card Waivers and Strategies #187

Wondering how to unlock premium travel perks and avoid annual fees while serving on Active Duty, the Guard, Reserves? Or maybe you’re a military spouse and curious if you qualify for the same protections and waivers? This episode dives deep into the ins and outs of MLA and SCRA protections, credit card strategies, and maximizing those free hotel nights and points.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 4, 2025
Listen on Website

Gut Check! Remember How You Felt When the Market Dropped? #186

Remember when you were spooked by April’s market dip? Spencer and Jamie unpack how to discuss your feelings of panic this past April, stay calm, stick to your investing philosophy, and make smart moves post-crisis.

Key Takeaways:

  • The S&P 500 dropped 19%, sparking fear, but headlines thrive on panic.
  • Debriefing your emotional response helps clarify your strategy.
  • Automate contributions to reduce emotional decision-making.
  • Now’s the time to create or revise your personal investing philosophy and asset allocation.
  • You don't actually "lose" money unless you sell your shares when they're down.
  • Long-term success comes from consistency, not reaction.

Action Steps:

  • Reflect: How did you feel during the downturn?
  • Write down your investing philosophy.
  • Automate TSP/Roth IRA contributions and delete trading apps.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 28, 2025
Listen on Website

Why Save for Retirement #185

If you've ever felt torn between soaking up life now and securing your future, you're not alone.

In this episode, we explore what it really means to invest in “future you” and how to do it without sacrificing everything you love today. Whether you’re a beginner or behind on savings, the best time to start is today.

Key Points

  • The Saver vs. Spender Dynamic

  • Compound Interest Explained

  • Retirement is More Than Just Money or a Pension

  • Understanding the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

  • Insight from the FIRE Movement

  • Saving Gives You Options

  • Reverse Budgeting Strategy

  • Reducing Financial Stress

  • Communication

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 21, 2025
Listen on Website

Dual Military Millionaires: Financial Independence in 4 Years, Navy Lifestyle Tips, and Maintaining Connection as a Couple #184

Carol and Ken didn’t just imagine a life beyond the military- they designed one. In just four years, they transformed from brand-new ensigns with zero TSP contributions into self-made millionaires. 

In this episode, we'll unpack the financial strategy, discipline, and teamwork that helped them achieve Lean FIRE (financial independence, retire early) before 30—all while navigating dual military careers and deployments. They get real about:

  • Starting from scratch: Misconceptions about TSP, military pay issues, and their humble financial beginnings
  • Mindset over mechanics: Why a simple strategy, applied consistently, beats fancy budgeting tools
  • Sacrifice and simplicity: Living close to base, biking to work, and even having a 60% savings rate
  • Lean FIRE: How they hit $800k in just four years and what came next
  • Building a values-based lifestyle: From toddler chaos to travel goals and making intentional choices
  • Tools & tactics: How they used Excel, anti-budgets, and communication to streamline finances
  • Carol's book: Raising Your Money-Savvy Family for Next Generation Financial Independence co-authored with her dad, Doug Nordman

🔗 Links Mentioned

For a limited time, Spencer and Jamie are offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 14, 2025
Listen on Website

Chase Sapphire Reserve Military Update | $795 Annual Fee Still Waived, New Benefits #183

Spencer and Jamie break down all the major updates to the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card and why military families should still consider it their top travel rewards card despite the annual fee increase to $795.

What You'll Learn:

Military Benefits That Make This Card a No-Brainer:

  • How the Military Lending Act (MLA) waives the $795 annual fee for active duty, Guard, Reserve (on 30+ day orders), and military spouses
  • Why the $300 flexible travel credit alone makes this card worth it
  • How to potentially get multiple Chase Sapphire Reserve cards with fees waived on all of them

Major Card Updates:

  • Enhanced earning rates: 4X points on flights and hotels booked directly (up from 3X)
  • New $300 dining credit for Chase Sapphire Reserve exclusive tables
  • Changes to the Chase Travel Portal: goodbye 1.5¢ per point, hello selective 2¢ "Points Boost"
  • New credits: $300 StubHub, $120 DoorDash annual credit, Apple TV+ and Apple Music through 2027

Rule Changes That Open New Opportunities:

  • Relaxed 5/24 rule - you might be eligible even if you've opened 5+ cards in 24 months
  • Modified lifetime bonus restrictions with new application screening
  • Ability to hold both Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve simultaneously

Essential Military Travel Benefits:

  • Primary rental car insurance (rare among credit cards)
  • No foreign transaction fees for overseas assignments
  • Priority Pass lounge access plus exclusive Chase Sapphire lounges
  • $120 Global Entry credit every 4 years

Resources Mentioned:

Whether you're stationed overseas, PCSing frequently, or just want to maximize your travel rewards without paying annual fees, this episode explains why the Chase Sapphire Reserve remains the top recommendation for military families in 2025.

Published on: July 7, 2025
Listen on Website

Target Military Discount | 10% off for 4th of July and Veterans Day #182

Bonus episode! Target is offering 10% off twice for verified military families!

Here's a quick episode were Jamie shares everything you need to know to save big during this limited-time promotion. Whether you're prepping for a move or restocking your household essentials, this discount is an easy win.

🗓️ Promo Details:

  • What: 10% discount at Target—available twice
  • When: June 22 through July 4 (verify in your app—some say July 5)
  • Who: Military members, veterans, and eligible family members
  • Where: Online, in-store, or in-app purchases

📱 How to Get Verified:

  • Create a Target Circle account (free—no credit card required)
  • Go to “My Target” tab → tap settings icon → select Military Verification
  • Upload required documents if needed (e.g., LES, DD-214)
  • Verification may be instant or take up to 24 hours

💡 Tips for Maximizing the Discount:

  • Use it on big-ticket items you need anyway- don't spend extra to save 10%
  • Plan around PCS season and back-to-school shopping
  • Combine with:
    • Target Circle offers
    • Target RedCard (debit card version recommended) 5% discount
    • Price match (except in Alaska & Hawaii)
  • Watch for Veterans Day promos in late October–mid-November

🔗 Mentioned Resources & Links:

The Department of Defense or any other DOD Component does not approve, endorse, or authorize this company, its products or services.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 1, 2025
Listen on Website

$5M by 40: Military Medicine FIRE | Benefits and Pay for Military Doctors with CPT (Dr.) Pritish Sahoo #181

What do you get when you combine a passion for service, a pivot to medicine, and a mastery of money? In this episode, Army doctor Pritish Sahoo breaks down how he leveraged military programs to fund $700K in education—and built a real estate empire along the way.

Topics Covered:

  • Pivot from engineering to medicine
  • Navigating the HPSP (Health Professions Scholarship Program) and USUHS paths
  • Real numbers: military pays, stipends, bonuses, and educational benefits available to military doctors
  • Financial edge of military medicine vs. civilian practice
  • Real estate investing as a service member: lessons, wins, and close calls
  • Using the GI Bill and TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) strategically
  • Building a $5M financial independence goal
  • Advice for young officers and enlisted members starting their wealth journey
  • How mentors and books shaped his approach to money and meaning

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 30, 2025
Listen on Website

Why File for VA Disability | "I'm Good" and Other Lies Veterans Tell Themselves with Doug Nordman #180

Did you know even a 0% rating can unlock important benefits for you and your family?

Why do so many veterans delay or avoid filing for VA disability compensation? It’s not about the money—it’s often about identity, pride, and a labyrinth of red tape. Doug Nordman joins Spencer to break the silence and stigma surrounding VA disability claims, while sharing personal stories, tough truths, and practical advice every veteran—and their family—needs to hear.

🎯 Episode Highlights

1. The Hidden Costs of “I’m Good”

  • How military culture conditions veterans to downplay symptoms
  • The long-term impact of this mindset on health and family

2. Navigating the VA Disability Labyrinth

  • What to expect from the C&P (Compensation & Pension) exam
  • Why VSOs (Veteran Service Officers) are your best allies
  • The importance of documenting everything—early and often

3. Doug’s Personal Story

  • Why he waited over a decade after retirement to file
  • Lessons learned from his own claim process and a friend’s 100% disability case

4. Caring for Aging Veterans

  • The power of a DD-214 and why every family should locate it
  • Benefits many don’t know exist until it's too late
  • The “miscellaneous folder” tragedy every child of a veteran should avoid

5. The Financial Independence Veteran’s Dilemma

  • What if you don’t need the money? Why filing still matters
  • VA benefits as a tool for long-term care planning and protecting your family

6. Zero Percent Can Still Mean Everything

  • How even non-compensable ratings unlock valuable benefits
  • Real-life stories of minor conditions leading to major support later

Links Mentioned in This Episode

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 23, 2025
Listen on Website

Beyond Money Rich: Five Types of Wealth #179

Your net worth isn't the full picture of your wealth. Financial independence is great, but if your health, relationships, and purpose suffer, are you really wealthy?

In this episode, Jamie and Spencer break down The Five Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom and how to create a life that’s truly rich—beyond just the numbers in your bank account.

Overview:

Financial wealth is only one piece of the puzzle. Sahil Bloom’s book introduces the concept that true wealth comes in five forms: time, social, mental, physical, and financial wealth. Jamie and Spencer reflect on their own experiences in the military and beyond, exploring how service members often have hidden riches in some areas—like social and mental wealth—but struggle in others, like financial or physical health.

Wealth isn’t just about money. The most financially successful people often struggle in health, relationships, and purpose. The goal isn’t to maximize one area but to balance all five types of wealth so you can build a truly rich life—one that’s deeply fulfilling, not just financially secure.

Key Points:

  • The Five Types of Wealth Defined: A breakdown of time, social, mental, physical, and financial wealth—why all five matter.
  • Military Service & Wealth: How military members often have strong mental and social wealth but struggle in financial and physical areas.
  • Time Wealth & How to Own Your Schedule: The importance of time freedom—are your days designed to build the life you want?
  • Social Wealth & Deepening Relationships: How to build lasting friendships, especially after leaving the military.
  • Mental Wealth & Purpose: How defining a personal mission statement can shape a more fulfilling life.
  • Physical Wealth & Health: The long-term impact of fitness, nutrition, and recovery on overall life satisfaction.
  • Financial Wealth & The Enough Life: The danger of chasing an ever-moving financial goal and defining your version of financial sufficiency.

Mentioned Resources & Links:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 16, 2025
Listen on Website

529 Debate - Are 529s Helpful or Too Restrictive? Spencer & Jamie Have Differing Views on College Savings for Military Families#178

Too restrictive or a key part of a military families financial planning? Today's episode is a no-holds-barred discussion about the pros, cons, and real-life strategies behind 529 plans.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Spencer and Jamie dive deep into the world of 529 college savings plans—a tax-advantaged tool designed to save for qualified education expenses. They explore the basics of how 529 plans work (after-tax contributions, tax-free growth, and penalty-free withdrawals on qualified education expenses) and highlight recent changes that expand their flexibility beyond just college tuition. The conversation unfolds as Spencer raises his skeptical questions, while Jamie defends the plan’s benefits by sharing personal experiences and strategies. From multi-generational planning to overcoming the challenge of overfunding, the discussion covers everything you need to know to determine if a 529 plan fits into your family’s financial strategy.

Key Discussion Points & Takeaways:

  • Understanding 529 Fundamentals:

    • Contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but the account grows tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses (college, K–12 tuition, apprenticeship programs, computer equipment, and internet access) remain tax-free.
    • Jamie explains the flexibility and evolving nature of 529 plans, including options to roll over funds to a Roth IRA (subject to annual limits and other restrictions) if the money isn’t immediately needed for education.

  • Flexibility vs. Restriction:

    • Spencer shares his concerns about the plan’s restrictions and whether the benefits favor high-income families more than those who might truly need the tax advantages.
    • Jamie counters by emphasizing that the primary goal is to ensure your child’s educational expenses are covered, while also noting that any “overfunding” isn’t a total loss—it comes with backup options like beneficiary changes and penalty adjustments if funds are withdrawn for non-qualified purposes.

  • Practical Money Management:

    • Real-life insights on how to balance your overall financial strategy: build a solid retirement plan, clear debt, and then contribute to a 529 plan once you’ve established your own financial security.
    • Jamie outlines his personal approach, including how much he’s contributed over the years and his strategy for managing contributions as his children get closer to college age.
    • Discussion of exit strategies: potential rollovers, transferring balances between beneficiaries, and even using scholarship funds to unlock part of the 529 savings without penalties.

  • Generational and Strategic Considerations:

    • Beyond college savings, the episode explores whether 529 plans can serve as a mechanism for a multi-generational legacy—providing educational support for nieces, nephews, or future grandchildren.
    • The balance between maximizing tax-free growth and maintaining account flexibility is a recurring theme, with both hosts stressing the importance of aligning a 529 plan with your broader financial plan.

Actionable Insights for Listeners:

  • Evaluate Your Priorities: Before you start pouring funds into a 529 plan, ensure you’ve taken care of high-priority items like debt repayment and retirement savings.
  • Start Early: Open an account when your child is young. Even small, regular contributions can accumulate significantly over time.
  • Customize According to Your Needs: Understand that the “perfect” plan isn’t one-size-fits-all. Consider factors like potential state tax deductions, investment options (like Vanguard 529’s low-cost index fund style), and your own financial situation.
  • Plan for Flexibility: Keep in mind exit strategies (such as rollovers to Roth IRAs and changing beneficiaries) so that if your situation changes, you’re not locked into funds you can’t use as intended.

If this episode sparked some thoughts about your child’s educational future or your family’s financial planning, drop us a message on Instagram or visit our website at MilitaryMoneyManual.com. 

Links mentioned:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 9, 2025
Listen on Website

CZTE The Triple Tax Benefits of Combat Zone Tax Exclusion | Tax Free Pay for Military #177

Did you know there’s a way to get tax-free income, tax-free growth, AND tax-free withdrawals—all legally?

If you’re in the military, you have access to one of the most powerful wealth-building tools that civilians can only dream of. Combat Zone Tax Exclusion (CZTE) is the golden ticket, and in this episode, we break down exactly how you can leverage it to maximize your savings and accelerate your journey to financial freedom.

Episode Summary:

Military members deployed to a Combat Zone Tax Exclusion (CZTE) location receive tax-free pay, but did you know this can also supercharge your retirement savings? 

  1. No federal income tax on military pay earned in a combat zone.
  2. Contributions to Roth IRA or Roth TSP using tax-exempt combat pay grow tax-free.
  3. Withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free, giving you a massive financial advantage.

We also discuss the Savings Deposit Program (SDP), tips for avoiding common financial mistakes, and strategies to maximize your tax-free earnings while deployed.

Key Takeaways:

  • Maximize Your Benefits: Understand the triple tax benefits and how to supercharge your Roth TSP and Roth IRA.
  • Combat Zone Pay Benefits: Know which locations qualify and how even touching a combat zone for one day can get you CZTE benefits.
  • Emergency Fund First: Use the extra tax-free income to build financial security before investing.
  • Savings Deposit Program (SDP): Earn a guaranteed 10% return with this little-known military savings program.
  • Tax Planning Strategies: Advanced moves like Roth conversions, tax-gain harvesting, and earned income tax credit eligibility.
  • Watch Out for Common Mistakes: Avoid lifestyle inflation and missed opportunities to grow tax-free wealth.

Links mentioned today:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 2, 2025
Listen on Website

7 Levels of Wealth for Military Families | Everyone Starts Somewhere #176

Are you just trying to survive financially? Or are you on your way to building a lasting legacy?

Discover the 7 levels of wealth adapted for military life and learn how to move from paycheck-to-paycheck living to financial freedom and abundance! This isn't about rank or time in service – it's about intention and systems.

This episode is inspired by Ramit Sethi's video on the seven levels of wealth, viewed through a unique military money lens.

The levels aren't tied to rank or experience; a junior service member could be ahead of a senior one. Everyone starts somewhere, and there's no shame if you're not at the final step yet.

The Seven Levels of Wealth (with a military twist):

  • Levels 1-2: Beginner's Mindset

    • Level 1: Survival
    • Level 2: Stability

  • Levels 3-4: The Boring Middle

    • Level 3: Security
    • Level 4: Growth

  • Levels 5-7: The Advanced Phase / Financial Freedom

    • Level 5: Freedom
    • Level 6: Abundance
    • Level 7: Legacy

Links mentioned today:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: May 26, 2025
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PCS like a Pro! Our Top Tips for Military PCS, PPM, and Being Financially Ready #175

Navigating PCS Chaos, Saving Money, and Finding Adventure! PCSing is a constant in military life, often bringing stress, extra costs, and confusion. But it doesn't have to be a nightmare!

In this episode, we dive deep into practical tips and strategies to help you survive your next Permanent Change of Station (PCS), save money, and maybe even make it an adventure. We cover everything from getting your paperwork in order to leveraging financial benefits and preparing your family for the journey.

In this episode, we discuss key strategies for managing your PCS:

  • Getting Organized & Paperwork: The importance of physical binders and electronic backups for documents. Tips for outprocessing checklists and hand-carrying essential items like orders, Power of Attorneys, birth certificates, passports, and social security cards. Keep vital documents separate from movers.
  • Financially Preparing: The crucial need to start saving cash early for unreimbursed expenses. Access to liquid money helps with stress management and avoiding debt. Cutting expenses is the first step to saving.
  • Understanding Financial Benefits:
    • Dislocation Allowance (DLA): An entitlement can be taken as an advance upfront (not a loan). Rates vary by pay grade and dependents (e.g., O-5 w/ dependents $5,339, E-4 w/ dependents $3,400 in 2025). 
    • PCS Pay Advance: Option for up to one month's base pay, interest-free, paid back over 12 months. A tool for necessary situations, better than high-interest loans.
  • Moving Your Stuff (HHG government move vs. PPM): Options include full government shipment (through TMO) or the Personally Procured Move (PPM). A partial PPM is recommended for conus moves to get paid for weight in your car. A full PPM offers significant profit potential by paying you the government's cost (examples mentioned: Jamie's $14,000 profit in 2023, and potential $10,000 profit in 2025). Challenge misinformation about PPM rules by referencing the JTR.
  • Temporary Living Expenses (TLE) & Temporary Living Allowance (TLA):
    • TLE (CONUS to CONUS, CONUS to OCONUS, or OCONUS to CONUS variants): Max $290/day, limited to 21 days, can be split between old and new PDS. Can be used for M&IE even when staying with family/friends.
    • TLA (OCONUS): Up to 60 days upon arrival, 10 days upon departure. Covers lodging plus M&IE. Reference the JTR due to common misinformation. Prioritize minimizing stress over maximizing per diem.
  • Preparing Your Family: Frame the move as an adventure. Acknowledge feelings (sadness, excitement) for everyone. Involve older kids in packing. Remember it's a team effort.
  • Decluttering: Less stuff makes moving easier, especially with PPM. Reduces mental stress. Try methods like the hanger trick, Marie Kondo ("spark joy"), or the "poop test" for toys. Holding a garage sale can generate extra cash.
  • Smart Travel & Leave: Explore circuitous travel or taking leave en route by getting it on your orders. PCS is a prime opportunity to take leave between assignments. Can take leave before departing or upon arrival. Understand BH timing.
  • Inventory & Support: Video and photograph your belongings for inventory in case of loss or damage. You are not alone. Lean on your support network, friends, family, or sponsor for help.

Links Mentioned:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: May 19, 2025
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Is Military Retirement Worth It? | Valuing Military Retirement w/ The Enlisted Money Guy, Brandon Lovingier #174

The military retirement is one of the best benefits in the world... but is it worth the cost in years of your life?

Summary:

  • How is military retirement pay calculated
  • Military retirement can be worth at least $1,500,000!
  • Benefits for military retirees
  • Intangible benefits of military service
  • What veterans miss about the military after retirement

Links:

Brandon Lovingier, ChFC®, MQFP®, joined the Army right out of high school and has served over 19 years. He wasn’t always good with money, but now his family is debt-free and building wealth. He established Enlisted Money to help enlisted service members avoid his mistakes. He earned his Chartered Financial Consultant – ChFC® designation in 2022 and Military Qualified Financial Planner – MQFP® in 2023. He received The American College of Financial Services NextGen Financial Professional Award for 2024. He’s spoken at MilMoneyCon and loves mentoring other service members on their own financial freedom journey.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: May 12, 2025
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Money for Military Couples | Money for Couples, Military Edition #173

Most couples would rather talk about their sex life with a friend than money!

What would it look like if we both felt good about money? Today we talk about how to get started with dreaming together and how to discover how to create a shared vision and discussing what kind of money stories do you want to write together as a couple

Jamie's 3 main take-aways:

  1. You and your spouse have to talk about money, understand where they're coming from, and their money scripts
  2. Your priorities will be different; find a way to get to a shared vision
  3. Whatever system you choose, shared goals and a shared vision are MOST important

Spencer's main lessons:

  1. Discover how money can be a source of collaboration between you and your partner
  2. Connect with your partner and use the medium of money to do that
  3. Money doesn't have to be a source of stress or strain

Other topics we discussed:

  • Communication
  • Dreaming conversations (visionary dreams, not costs at first)
  • Be curious about why your spouse may have negative mindsets about money
  • "I wonder what it would look like if we had a talk about money this week"
  • Working each person's priorities into your budget with whatever system you choose
  • Starting the meeting with appreciation for each other
  • "A budget is a tactical solution to a psychological problem" - Ramit Sethi
  • "A budget's not going to save you, but learning how to connect over money just might!" - Ramit Sethi 
  • Housing, transportation, and food are often the 3 biggest areas military couples often overspend in

Links:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: May 5, 2025
Listen on Website

Too Much Cash? How Much Cash a Military Family Must Have with Erik Baskin #172

Holding too much cash can be a drag on your gains. You shouldn't have too much of it sitting in your account without a specific purpose.

Today you'll learn answers to questions such as: How much is too much? Where should I keep my cash? What should I do today if I have too much cash?

Links from today's episode:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: April 28, 2025
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Lump Sum Vs Dollar Cost Averaging #171

Which is better, lump sum investing or Dollar Cost Averaging? Bottom line, neither is significantly better, although lump sum investing statistically wins slightly. The more important factor in you building wealth is that you invest consistently for the long-term! 

Missing just the 10 best trading days between 2002-2022 would cut your returns by 50%. Don't play games when you know it's impossible to win. Just keep investing!

Links from today's episode:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: April 21, 2025
Listen on Website

Practice over Perfection - Shifting Your Money Mindset to Reduce Frustration & Improve Communication #170

Better every day. That's the goal. Not perfection.

What skill have you ever learned that you were perfect at right from the start? Then why are you so hard on yourself when your financial journey isn't perfectly smooth and easy? Each positive decision you make, each money conversation you have with your spouse is like a good set at the gym. Not every rep is perfect, so you keep working on it.

This week, we're talking mindset shifts to help you think of one way you can PRACTICE this week with:

  • Spending intentionally
  • Communication
  • Overcoming exessive frugality & moving on from seasons of aggressive saving

Money management is a skill that improves with practice. You'll get better with each rep. Don't expect perfect from you every day (or from your spouse!). What decision today could be one rep? 

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: April 14, 2025
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Money for Military Women, How Gender Roles Affect Your Finances, VA Loan House Hacking, & Off-Duty Employment with Lanae Lang of @Lanaeslife1 #169

"Reading changed my life!"

Today's key topics include: VA House Hacking as a young officer, military influencer and off duty employment in the Air Force, personal finance for military women, and self improvement for new officers and cadets.

As a young officer, Lanae is debt free except her mortgage, owns a home using her VA loan, has a very high savings rate, and helps spread awareness about how women can improve their knowledge and personal finance situation.

Links:

See Important Disclaimer for Department of the Air Force Influencers

Lanae is a Force Support Officer stationed in Colorado. She earned her commission through the ROTC program at Ohio University and received her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Communication Studies 2022. She became a home owner and debt free at 23 years old and loves to read, travel, be outdoors, and is passionate about personal finance education for women.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: April 7, 2025
Listen on Website

International Stock Investment for Military Families with Erik Baskin, CFP #168

30%-40% international funds in your portfolio!?

What is home-country bias and why you may want exposure to markets other than just the US stock market.

Links: 

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: March 31, 2025
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Military Entrepreneurship, Guard Benefits, Contributing $70k into TSP while Deployed with Ryan Guina from The Military Wallet #167

Entreprenuership, Guard benefits, TSP while deployed, and more!

Topics from today:

  • Starting TheMilitaryWallet.com
  • Joining the Guard after 8 years
  • Why he joined the Guard
  • VA disability
  • Guard pay, healthcare, and retirement differences
  • Transition Assistance Medical Program (TAMP)
  • TSP contributions in a combat zone
  • Annual additons limit
  • Ryan's personal considerations for whether to continue serving past 20 years

Ryan Guina is The Military Wallet's founder. He is a writer, small business owner, and entrepreneur. He served over six years on active duty in the USAF and is a current member of the Tennessee Air National Guard.

Ryan started The Military Wallet in 2007 after separating from active duty military service and has been writing about financial, small business, and military benefits topics since then.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: March 24, 2025
Listen on Website

Don't Buy a House When Leaving the Military with Kate Horrell #166

64% of veterans will leave initial first post-military job in the first two years! Repeat guest Kate Horrell joins us again to discuss her thought-provoking post on this topic.

Of course there are always outliers and unique circumstances, but in genral we hope this conversation helps you slow down and question the pressure to "stabilize" and find your "perfect, dream home" immediatley after you leave active duty. 

Main reasons to consider renting for 1 or 2 more years include:

  • Employment instability
  • Effect of stress on decision-making
  • Financial upheaval and the unknowns

Links we mentioned:

Kate Horrell is an Accredited Financial Counselor®, Chartered Financial Consultant®, and Military Qualified Financial Planner®. She's also the spouse of a retired sailor and mom of four young adults. She writes about the financial issues that affect military families - pay, allowances, and benefits. Plus college stuff, landlording, moving, taxes. We cover a little bit of everything. Her goal is to give you the tools to make the best decisions right now, so you'll be confidently prepared for whatever comes next - whether that's a PCS move, transition to civilian life, or retirement.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: March 17, 2025
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"It Feels Like I'd Be Stealing From My Kids" | Jamie's GI Bill Discussion & Financial Therapy with Daniel Kopp #165

As an optimzer, Jamie was concerned about how to perfect his family's GI Bill strategy. In the middle of a discussion (after we wrapped up last week's podcast recording with Daniel), we hit record for this non-standard format. As Jamie allows himself to be vulnerable and curious about the words he used, Daniel is able to help him work through some anxiety and negative feelings. 

You'll also hear some tactical advice for using and sharing the GI Bill.

Links we mentioned:

Daniel Kopp is a fee-only, fiduciary financial planner and founder of Wise Stewardship Financial Planning where he helps young widows and widowers as well as servicemembers get their financial lives in order by aligning their money with their values. He is also an Air Force veteran after almost 9 years as an officer on active duty during which he served as an Air Battle Manager participating in combat deployments and training opportunities all across the world. Outside of his official military commitments, Daniel has always had a passion to help servicemembers and their families master their finances where he served as a volunteer financial counselor during most of his time on active duty.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: March 10, 2025
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Raising Money Smart Kids in Military Families with Daniel Kopp #164

How to teach your military kids about healthy and positive money habits, set expectations for college, use the GI Bill, and leverage 529s and other investment accounts for your military family.

With today's guest, Daniel Kopp, we discussed:

  • Teaching kids spending, saving, and giving buckets
  • Teach, demo, supervise with your kids
  • Give them chances to fail
  • Wants vs. needs & delayed gratification
  • Don't make money a big secret- talk about it
  • Evolving the lessons you teach your kids as they age
  • 529s, UTMAs, taxable brokerage accounts, and life insurance
  • Tax efficient gifting strategies
  • FAFSA for military families
  • VA chapter 35
  • Prepaid college 
  • The "College Pre-Approval Process"
  • How to avoid overpaying for college

Links we mentioned:

Daniel Kopp is a fee-only, fiduciary financial planner and founder of Wise Stewardship Financial Planning where he helps young widows and widowers as well as servicemembers get their financial lives in order by aligning their money with their values. He is also an Air Force veteran after almost 9 years as an officer on active duty during which he served as an Air Battle Manager participating in combat deployments and training opportunities all across the world. Outside of his official military commitments, Daniel has always had a passion to help servicemembers and their families master their finances where he served as a volunteer financial counselor during most of his time on active duty.

Books mentioned in this episode:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: March 3, 2025
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5 Money Questions to Future Focus Your Spending #163

Making your money more focused on your future expenses, goals, and desires. We were inspired by the updates to the YNAB method to share these powerful questions and help your family become more intentional and proactive.

Main themes from today's episode:

  • Use these 5 questions to give every dollar a job for what matters to you
  • What to do when you feel like everyone is coming for your hard-earned dollars
  • Building a system so you can thrive
  • Choosing whether to spend a hard-earned dollar now or put it to work with a productive asset

5 questions to ask:

  • What does this money need to do before I'm paid again?
  • What larger, less frequent spending do I need to prepare for?
  • What can I set aside for next month's spending?
  • What goals, large or small, do I want to prioritize?
  • What changes do I need to make, if any?

Links we mentioned today:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: February 24, 2025
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"Will the Stock Market Crash in 2025?" Plus Military Transition, Backdoor Roth IRAs with Brian "ALF" O'Neill, Winged Wealth #162

  • "What's the mission for this money?"
  • "Wealth is what you DON'T see."
  • "Go find something you're really excited about."
  • "Contributions, Conversion, Characterization."
  • "It's OK to follow your curiosity!"

This episode is full of gems of wisdom from ALF. Some major questions include:

  • Do political changes adjust my investing strategy? 
  • How do I fight against the pull to get a car that's more expensive?
  • What's a backdoor Roth IRA? Who needs to do it?
  • Is there an income limit for Roth TSP contributions?
  • Do I need to make quarterly estimated tax payments?
  • Any advice for career changes after the military?
  • How do I find a fulfilling career after the military?

Links we mentioned today:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: February 17, 2025
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Military Credit Card Update 2025 | Military Annual-fee Waived Credit Cards Explained #161

Military servicemembers and their spouse can get annual fees waived on personal cards from top banks such as American Express and Chase!

Today's episode covers:

  • What's the big deal about these cards? Why are they good?
  • How does this waiver thing work?
  • What order should I open my cards in?
  • How far can I take this? Is it going to be complicated?
  • How can I learn more about credit card strategies?

Remember, NO credit cards if you're already in credit card debt, living paycheck-to-paycheck, or struggling to make ends meet. This is a more advanced personal finance benefit.

Links:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: February 10, 2025
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Air Force Pilot Bonus 2025 Update | Up to $600,000 Bonus #160

The 2025 Air Force pilot bonus is out! 

This episode is specifically for USAF pilots (or anyone else oddly interested in the numbers). There are also bonuses for CSOs/Navs, RPA pilots, and ABMs, although we focus specifically on the pilot bonus.

There are a few types of bonus money available this year for those who UPT ADSC expires in FY25, FY26, or FY27. You can get a preferential assignment, a financial bonus, or both! We'll discuss the legacy bonus (ADSC expiringing in FY25), the demo program bonus (ADSC expiring in FY26 or FY27), and the contract expired bonus (ADSC expired before FY25, never took a bonus, or ADSC from taking a bonus earlier is done.)

Refer the official PSDM on MyVector (CAC required) for full details and source document guidance.

Links:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: February 3, 2025
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Money Can be Simple | How to Reduce Stress with your Finances #159

Money doesn't have to cause stress. It doesn't have to be complex. It doesn't have to require a lot of time to build wealth. Learn how to simply your:

  • Budget
  • Bills
  • Investment
  • Tracking

Links:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: January 27, 2025
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LADS Principle: Low-Cost, Automatic, Diversified, and Simple #158

Low-cost, Automatic, Diversified, Simple (LADS). Consistent, automatic savings poured into my simple and diversified index funds at low costs have been the cornerstone of my successful investment portfolio.

Low-cost: Select low-cost index funds with low-cost expense ratios. All of the funds in the TSP meet these criteria and many Vanguard funds do as well.

Automatic: Set up automatic contributions from your military paycheck to your TSP. Then, set up automatic withdrawals from your checking account to your IRA. Invest monthly or after every paycheck. If you receive a lump sum payment, like a bonus, invest it as soon as possible.

Diversified: Don’t buy one company’s stock. Buy stocks from many companies through index funds.

Simple: Never invest in anything you don’t understand. If you can’t explain it to a five-year-old, it’s too complicated. Buy income-producing assets like stocks, bonds, and real estate.

Links: 

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: January 20, 2025
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Cybersecurity 101: Credit Freezes, 2FA, & Tips for Military Families #157

Protect your credit, protect your identity, and keep your money safe online. You can easily freeze your credit with each of the 3 credit bureaus to ensure no one can open accounts in your name. You don't need to pay for credit monitoring service in most cases or pay to know your credit score.

It's very simple and easy to quickly unfreeze your credit before applying for a new credit card or mortgage.

Also use unique passwords, stored securely and two-factor authentication (preferably on an Authenticator app over receiving a text code) for all your accounts.

Active duty alerts on your credit report is NOT as helpful as actually freezing your credit.

Links: 

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: January 13, 2025
Listen on Website

Always Do Roth | Roth vs Traditional for Military Families #156

Roth is the way to go for almost all military families. Because of the unusually low taxable income military families have (since allowances like BAH and BAS aren't taxable income),  we're going to take a hard stance on this one and show the benefits for Roth:

  • You can always access your Roth contributions tax free and penalty free (can help with gap fund, emergencies, first house purchase, etc)
  • All of the money you'll have in your Roth IRA or Roth TSP will be non-taxed upon withdrawal at retirement age (no big tax bombs or complicated strategies required)
  • No taxable RMDs as you age
  • No taxable RMDs for whomever receives the Roth account after your pass, in most cases (big win for your beneficiaries)
  • No concern about future tax rate, tax laws, or tax bracket changes

Remember, almost all of the million+ you'll have in retirement accounts as you age will be GROWTH- and that's not taxed. 

In a few cases (mil-to-mil senior officers, high income families, complicated tax situations, extreme FI/RE types, etc.) traditional may be better for you. As you get more advanced and learn more about personal finance, you can make the decision. If unsure, go Roth!

*Not financial advice. Do your own research and make your own, informed decisions.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: January 6, 2025
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"Why?" | A Powerful Question You Can Ask Yourself to Get to the Heart #155

Dissect your money stories, the traditions you've adapted from culture and your family of orgin to understand WHY you make the money decisions you make each month?

  • What are money stories you tell yourself?
  • Money is _____.
  • Why do you value what you value?
  • Why do I think ____ about money
  • Does this belief still serve me?

Links:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: December 30, 2024
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Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, & a Happy New Year in 2025 from Jamie & Spencer!

Merry Christmas from the entire Military Money Manual team!

What a year... We hit 250,000+ total downloads this year. Not bad for two pilots who didn't know how to podcast when we started.

We're looking forward to helping everyone with their military money next year.

Published on: December 25, 2024
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2025 Max Out Your TSP & Earn Full 5% BRS Match #154

Spencer and Jamie explain how to maximize TSP contributions under the Blended Retirement System (BRS), including calculating monthly contribution percentages and avoiding common mistakes that could result in missing matching funds. They break down the 2025 contribution limits and discuss strategies for both BRS and legacy retirement system participants.

Here's the TSP BRS maximizing chart.

Questions discussed:

  • What are the TSP contribution limits for 2025?
  • How do Roth TSP and Roth IRA limits differ?
  • How should you calculate monthly TSP contributions under BRS?
  • What happens if you front-load TSP contributions under BRS?
  • How do you handle mid-year pay increases?
  • What should you do if you over-contribute?
  • How do you adjust contributions if starting later in the year?

Resources mentioned:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: December 16, 2024
Listen on Website

Financial Wisdom from the Almanack of Naval Ravikant #153

Biggest financial lessons from The Alamanc of Naval Ravikant

  • 3 biggest decisions: where you live, who you’re with, and what you do
  • Does money make you happy?
  • How to get rich
  • Outsourcing
  • 3 way to retire
  • Cultivating wisdom
  • Things money can't buy

Links: 

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: December 9, 2024
Listen on Website

Tax Intro: What Military Families Need to Know About US Tax Code to Max Your Paycheck #152

Tax advantages, confusing tax brackets, marginal vs effective tax rates, and more!

Spencer and Jamie discuss how military service members benefit from unique tax advantages, including untaxed allowances and combat zone tax exclusions.

They also break down real examples of effective tax rates for different ranks and locations, explain tax brackets, and discuss investment implications, particularly for Roth vs traditional retirement accounts.

Main Topics & Questions Covered:

How did Jamie pay an effective tax rate of only 10% in 2023?

What military pay components are not taxed?

  • BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing)
  • BAS (Basic Allowance for Sustenance)
  • OHA (Overseas Housing Allowance)
  • Overseas COLA
  • Combat Zone Tax Exclusion Pay (CZTE)
  • Hostile fire/imminent danger pay

How do combat zone tax exclusions work?

  • Areas designated by presidential executive order
  • No limit for enlisted members
  • Officers capped at highest enlisted monthly pay

Real examples of effective tax rates for:

  • E5 at Holloman AFB (single)
  • E7 at Fort Sill (married with children)
  • O3 at Wheeler Army Airfield (married with child)
  • O5 in Hawaii (with children)

How do tax brackets actually work?

  • Progressive system explanation
  • Standard deduction impacts
  • Marriage tax advantages
  • Common misconceptions about brackets

Investment implications:

  • Roth vs Traditional retirement accounts
  • Why Roth often makes sense for military members
  • Tax considerations when transitioning to civilian life

Key takeaways:

  • Military members often have very low effective tax rates
  • Understanding true taxable income vs. total compensation
  • Importance of tracking tax information on LES
  • Resources for military tax assistance (Military Tax Experts Alliance)

The hosts emphasized two main recommendations:

  • Consider Roth retirement contributions while serving
  • Be cautious about buying houses while on active duty

Links:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: December 2, 2024
Listen on Website

"Where Do I Invest Cash?" Holding a PCS House Down Payment #151

Spencer and Jamie address a listener question about where to save money for a house down payment, which leads to a broader discussion about short-term savings strategies based on different time horizons.

Main Topics & Questions Covered:

  • Where to save money for a house down payment
  • How to handle proceeds from a home sale while waiting to buy another property
  • When to keep money in cash vs. when to invest it
  • Different savings vehicle options for different time horizons

Key Points Discussed:

Short-term savings (0-3 months):

  • Keep in checking account
  • Use for immediate bills and expenses
  • Consider automated savings for regular expenses

Medium-term savings (3 months - 1 year):

  • High-yield savings accounts (HYSA)
  • Money market accounts
  • Consider proximity to primary bank for transfers

Longer-term savings (1-5 years):

  • HYSAs
  • CDs (including no-penalty CDs)
  • Treasury ETFs (SGOV, SCUS mentioned as examples)
  • Avoid stock market investments due to risk

Beyond 5 years:

  • Can consider stock market investments
  • Focus on long-term growth strategies
  • Align with financial independence goals

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: November 25, 2024
Listen on Website

2025 TSP & IRA Contribution Limits: $23,500 & $7,000 #150

2025 contribution limits are out! 

In this episode, Spencer and Jamie discuss the newly announced IRS contribution limits for retirement accounts in 2025. They break down the changes for 401(k), TSP, and IRA accounts, explaining the limits for both standard and catch-up contributions, while also highlighting an important opportunity for military families with non-working spouses.

  • What are the new 2025 contribution limits for 401(k) and TSP accounts?
    • Increased by $500 to $23,500 for those under 50
  • What are the 2025 IRA contribution limits?
    • Remains at $7,000 for traditional and Roth IRAs (under 50)
  • Can non-working spouses contribute to an IRA?
    • Yes, if married filing jointly
    • Can contribute up to $7,000 to spouse's IRA
    • Must have at least $14,000 in combined earned income as a couple
  • What are catch-up contributions?
    • Clarification that these are only for those over 50
    • Not meant for younger service members trying to "catch up" on contributions

We encourage you to maximize these tax-advantaged retirement spaces when possible and gradually increase contributions over time!

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: November 18, 2024
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Blended Retirement System | BRS Pension, Matching Contributions, Continuation Pay #149

Do you still get a pension under the BRS? YES! We can't believe this myth and misinformation is still spreading around the military.

Spencer and Jamie break down the three components of the military's Blended Retirement System (BRS) and address common misconceptions. They explain how the pension calculation works, discuss TSP matching benefits, and detail continuation pay options across different services. The hosts emphasize that servicemembers still receive a pension under BRS and highlight both the advantages and potential pitfalls of the system.

Questions discussed:

  • How is the pension calculated under BRS?
  • What are the three main components of BRS?
  • How does TSP matching work?
  • What are the continuation pay rates across different services?
  • Why did the DOD switch to BRS?
  • Should you take the lump sum option?
  • How can leaders help troops not miss continuation pay opportunities?
  • Is the BRS lump sum retirement option a good idea?

Resources mentioned:

 

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: November 11, 2024
Listen on Website

Money Mindset | Growth vs Fixed #148

  • "I'll always be broke."
  • "I can't build wealth with this salary."
  • "I'm just a spender- I can't help it."

In this episode, Jamie and Spencer discuss how adopting a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset can transform your approach to personal finance.

Drawing from Carol Dweck's book "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success," they explore how changing your perspective from "I'm not good with money" to "I'm not good with money yet" can open up opportunities for financial growth and learning.

Main Topics Covered:
• Definition and differences between fixed mindset and growth mindset
• How mindset affects financial behavior and decision-making
• The power of labels in personal development
• Common financial mindset traps in the military community
• Ways to develop a growth mindset with money
• The impact of mindset on relationships and money management

Links We Discussed Today:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: November 4, 2024
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"I Only Want 1 Credit Card!" Best Military Credit Card Strategies for 1, 3, or 5+ Cards #147

This may surprise you!

Want to experience an easier and simplified strategy for military credit cards? That's fine!

We'd ask "why" you don't want more, but in today's episode we share which cards we'd recommend for listeners who reach out wanting smaller numbers. 

Links:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: October 28, 2024
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HCFSA for Military | Health Care Flexible Spending Account Worth It for Military Families? #146

A new benefit for military families! How good is it?

In fall of 2024, SecDef announced a new Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA) for military families. In March 2025, you'll be able to sign up for it for the first time. It may give you a minor tax savings but also may complicate your situation a little.

We break down the details of this pre-tax benefit, explaining how it works, who's eligible, and whether it's worth signing up for.

Main topics and questions covered:

  • What is the new Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA)?
  • Who is eligible for the HCFSA?
  • What can the HCFSA be used for?
  • How much can be contributed to the HCFSA?
  • How does the contribution process work?
  • What are the tax benefits of the HCFSA?
  • Are there any risks or downsides to the HCFSA?
  • How does the "use it or lose it" rule apply?
  • What are some potential use cases for the HCFSA?
  • Is the HCFSA worth signing up for?
  • How does the HCFSA compare to other military benefits?
  • Where can listeners find more information about the HCFSA?

Links Mentioned:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: October 21, 2024
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Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) | Roth vs Traditional | How RMDs Affect Military Finances, Inherited IRAs #145

Did you know Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) will be a factor in your future that you may not be tracking? 

If you have any traditional TSP or IRA money, you'll be required to take a portion of that money starting at 73 (as of 2024, scheduled to go up to 75), and that distribution will be taxable income. This can affect how to withdraw from accounts in retirement and how you decide to contribute to your accounts now.

RMDs are also required for your beneficiaries on traditional IRAs you pass on (taxable income for them). While RMDs are required for some Roth IRAs for your beneficiaries as well, they're not taxed. (Inheritance tax is 2024 is $13,610,000. As long as you pass on less than that, no federal taxes. If it's all in a Roth IRA for example, no tax at all. If it's an inherited Traditional retirement account, your beneficiary owes taxes on the money as they withdraw funds per RMD schedule.)

Today main takeaways:

  • RMDs are important for you to understand
  • They affect your beneficiaries who receive your accounts after you pass
  • Understanding RMDs may affect how you choose Roth or Traditional investments now
  • If you inherit an IRA, it's complicated but important to get right. Hiring some fee-only help (links below) may be a great idea.

Links from today's episode:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: October 14, 2024
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Gap Funds for FIRE | How to Save for Early Retirement in Taxable Accounts for Military #144

How do you finance the life between possible early retirment and 59.5 years old when you can access you retirement accounts? A gap fund is one common approach.

Today we discuss:

  • What is a gap fund?
  • Is it necessary?
  • Where does it fall in priority order when saving for early retirement?
  • How do you invest a gap fund?

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! Just e-mail us at [email protected] for the free promo code.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: October 7, 2024
Listen on Website

DCFSA | Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account for Military | Possible $5,000 Tax Benefit | With Brandon Lovingier, the Enlisted Money Guy #143

Dependent care flexible spending account- is it even worth your time? (note: this is different than the HEALTHCARE FSA which was announced in Sept 2024- we have an episode coming out on that in a few weeks)

Open season is coming up in mid-November to mid-December! 

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

We are publishing this episode now so you can think about it and prepare for open enrollment season coming up in mid November!

A Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DCFSA) allows up to $5,000 of pre-tax earnings per household, per year for eligible dependent care expenses. If you have dependents, you're married, your spouse is working or going to school, and you have dependent care expenses, the DCFSA may be for you. Highlights of today include:
  • Basics of the DCFSA and what it can be used for
  • How to decide if it's right for you
  • Amount of contributions allowed and how to use it each calendar year
  • How to enroll during the open season or after a qualifying life event
  • Comparison to the existing tax credits and other childcare program/subsidies
  • What types of dependent care expenses would apply
 
Links:

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: September 30, 2024
Listen on Website

Amex Pop-Up Jail, TSP Contributions, Combining Accounts, Low Fee Investments: Reader Question & Answers #142

In this mailbag episode, Spencer and Jamie answer various listener questions about investing, credit cards, and military-specific financial topics. They provide insights on compound growth, TSP options, Roth vs. Traditional accounts, credit card strategies, and investment return estimates.

Questions discussed:
- Is there a benefit to combining multiple investment accounts?
- Should I move out of TSP for lower fee investments?
- How do I choose investments for a spouse's 401(k)?
- Is contributing 6% to TSP good for an E4?
- Are there ways around Amex family restrictions for credit card bonuses?
- Are traditional reservists eligible for annual fee waived cards?
- What are go-to cards for regular spending while stationed overseas?
- How do I get out of Amex pop-up jail?
- What happens to fee waivers after separating from active duty?
- How should I estimate returns for my investment portfolio?

Resources mentioned:
- MLA (Military Lending Act) database
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Amex Platinum, Gold, and Green cards
- Hilton Honors Aspire card
- Vanguard funds (VTI, VXUS)
- TSP funds (C, S, I)
- Personal Capital (now Empower)
- Kubera.com
- Investor.gov compound interest calculator

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: September 23, 2024
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Air Force Pilot: Buying Multiple Homes on Active Duty, Building Wealth, Teaching Financial Habits to Your Troops with Garrison #141

$85,000 in debt and a brand new truck to a wealthy and generous life?!

In this episode, Air Force officer Garrison shares his financial journey from $85,000 in debt to working towards financial independence. He discusses following Dave Ramsey's Baby Steps, buying a home in the military, running a crash pad rental business, and helping his Airmen with financial education. Spencer and Jamie explore Garrison's experiences with budgeting, investing, and balancing financial goals with personal passions like Disney vacations.

Topics:

  • Opting into the Blended Retirement System (BRS)?
  • How did Garrison start his financial journey as a young officer?
  • What sacrifices did Garrison make to pay off debt?
  • Is buying a house in the military a good idea?
  • How does Garrison's crash pad rental business work?
  • How does Garrison help his Airmen with financial education?
  • How does Garrison balance financial goals with personal spending?

Resources mentioned:

 

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: September 16, 2024
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Military Financial Readiness Study | Tom McLean & Jodi Vickery from Armed Forces Bank #140

The May 2024 Military Family Financial Readiness study from Armed Forces Bank highlighted unique financial challenges military families faces due to the nature of their service. Today, Spencer and Jamie are joined by Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery, hosts of the Militarily Speaking podcast, join us to discuss the financial challenges military families face, identifying good banking product, avoiding predatory "advisors," and common sources of financial information for our military families.

Spoiler alert- the findings aren't really positive. We have so much work to do to continue securing the financial readiness of our troops!

Links mentioned in today's show:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: September 9, 2024
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Enlisted Success Story! $500,000+ Invested by Age 31 | Financial Independence by 38 | Darren Thedieck #139

Enlisted Airmen with half a million dollars invested?! Meet Darren Thedieck, US Air Force E-7 who was recently featured by CNBC. and Stripes. We talk very practical tips with Darren about how he learned to save, where he saves, speicific ETFs we like, and handling his family's journey from debt to financial independence.

  • How to handle debt
  • Where to park my savings?
  • How much am I actually paid? (Be sure to review your annual Personal Statement of Military Compensation)
  • Handling financial conversations with a spouse
  • Is 100% stocks ok?
  • Retirement accounts vs taxable brokerage accounts
  • Balancing saving goals vs enjoying life and traveling

Links mentioned in today's show:

Books mentioned:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: September 2, 2024
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Health is Wealth | Physical Wellness and the Connection to Financial Wellness | Increasing your Healthspan and Enjoying your Wealth #138

What's the point of building wealth if you're not healthy enough to enjoy it? Today, Spencer and Jamie explore the connection between physical health and financial health. Although this is a slight diversion from our money-focused podcast, we want to encourage you to keep both portions of wellness in balance as you grow towards a wealthy life that you can enjoy.

Links mentioned in today's show:

Key takeaways:

  • You have to be intentional about maintaining your health- it doesn't happen without intentional planning (just like growing your money!)
  • Don't live inside the spreadsheet in an attempt to maximize savings and have a perfect budget if you won't even be healthy enough to play with your kids or go on vacation
  • The bedrock of good health is sleep
  • Little habits that you repeat over time build on themselves to make you healthier AND wealthier
  • You can prioritize spending on your wellness and health (good mattresses, gym membership, quality food, good running shoes, etc.)
  • Start working to increase your healthspan- the amount of your lifespan that you're actually healthy
  • Being healthier will enable you to have more energy to excel at work and at home
  • If you've been out of balance, let today be the day to ask for help

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 26, 2024
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Vanguard Founder Jack Bogle: 10 Step Wealth Building Bogleheads Investing Philosophy for the Military #137

Does a simple Bogleheads style of investing work for military families? YES!  The Bogleheads are followers of the philosophy of Vanguard founder John C. "Jack" Bogle. 

  1. Live below your means
  2. Develop a workable plan
  3. Never bear too much or too little risk
  4. Invest early and often
  5. Diversify
  6. Invest with simplicity
  7. Use index funds when possible
  8. Keep Costs Low
  9. Minimize taxes
  10. Stay the course

By the way, you can also recreate a bogleheads' style portfolio in your TSP! We talk about it in the Confident TSP Investing course. Lifecycle funds basically build a simple, 3-fund portofilio for you. Check out the course info below.

Links mentioned in today's show:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 19, 2024
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New TSP Fund: L2070 Lifecycle | What are Lifecycle Funds? Are Lifecycle Funds a Good Option? #136

The L2070 lifecycle fund is available now in your TSP as of July 2024. If you were born after 2005, this will be your default fund you'll be automatically enrolled to contribute to. This is for those of you who'll reach retirement age around the year 2070 (2068-2072 ish). We discuss what lifecycle funds are, what mix of C/S/I/F/G funds is in the L2070 fund, what actions are required from you to maximize your retirement savings, and how to avoid high-fee investments.

Main take-aways from this great episode:

  • No action is required for the average TSP participant. No need to go change anything based on this new fund option.
  • Lifecycle funds are a very solid option as your begin your journey. And you have plenty of time to research and develop a different strategy if you want before the lifecycle fund starts shifting slowly towards more bonds.
  • If you want to learn more about the TSP, visit militarymoneymanual.com/tsp for our great course! We also give the course away to any E-4 or below. Just e-mail us- [email protected] for the code.
  • The TSP and the L2070 option is still very low cost (0.054%) and a great way to build wealth.

If you need help, for a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 12, 2024
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Dave Ramsey 7 Baby Steps - Do They Work for Military Families? | How to Get Out of Debt, Build Wealth, Give Generously #135

Dave Ramsey's 7 baby steps have helped millions of families. Do they work for military families?

Today, we discuss each of the 7 baby steps and how they can work for military families. Both Spencer and Jamie started on the Dave Ramsey plan. We highly recommend the Total Money Makeoever book (check your base library- many have it for free), Financial Peace University, and the Ramsey podcast or YouTube.

Military families can get 50% off FPU too!

If you need help, for a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 5, 2024
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Don't Buy a House on Active Duty | Reduce Stress, Hassle, and Build Liquid Wealth While Renting #134

It's okay to rent on active duty! You don't need to buy a house to build wealth. You can safely ignore the push from VA loan sellers, real estate agents, and mortgage brokers.

In this episode of the MMM podcast, Spencer and Jamie challenge the common belief that buying a house is essential for building wealth, especially for active duty military personnel. We explore why renting might be a smarter financial decision for those who move frequently, and debunk popular myths about homeownership.

We discuss the hidden costs and risks of real estate investment, including unexpected repairs, market fluctuations, and the impact on lifestyle flexibility. The episode also touches on the misconceptions surrounding real estate as a passive income source and the true nature of home equity.

Whether you're an active duty service member considering buying a home or simply curious about alternative wealth-building strategies, this episode offers valuable insights to help you make informed financial decisions. Join us as we examine why renting might be the better option for many and how you can build wealth without relying on real estate.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 29, 2024
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Listener Success Story! Travel Hacking Military Honeymoon to Tahiti | Free Flights and Hotels for Military with Brian #133

Listener Brian joins us today to share how he used annual-fee waived credit cards to save about $6,000 on his honeymoon by saving big on his flights and hotel.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course for FREE at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Big take-aways:

  • If you're expecting a big expense, open a new credit card like we recommend to easily meet your minimum spend requirements for your welcome offer
  • The perfect military travel hacking redemption can be hard to do unless you have a very flexible schedule
  • How to research big redemptions and balance hotels vs flight redemption options including using transferable points to partner airlines

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 8, 2024
Listen on Website

Military Officer's Guide to Money | Building Wealth for Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine, Space Force, Coast Guard, NOAA, USPHS Officers #132

New officer's guide to personal finance! In this episode, Spencer and Jamie share all the financial advice they'd share with a new officer in their unit. You CAN become rich on active duty as a military officer!

If you're an enlisted servicemember, go check out episode #131 covering all the personal finance advice for an enlisted member.

Topics include:

  • Career starter loans
  • Tracking your expenses
  • Balancing enjoying your new life with keeping expenses down
  • Buy a car (use the lemon lot to look for a ~$10,000 used car)
  • Focus on easy plans to focus on learning your job and being the best officer you can be. Learning to be an officer and do your job well is your #1 priority for now.
  • Emergency funds
  • Picking the right bank without fees
  • Starting your credit history (pay off your card every month!)
  • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
  • Insurance
  • Real estate investing
  • Security and two-factor authentication

Total stock market index fund options Spencer mentioned:

  • VTSAX at Vanguard or
  • VTI (ETF version)
  • FZROX at Fidelity
  • SWTSX at Schwab or
  • SCHB (ETF version)

Links mentioned:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 1, 2024
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Enlisted Military's Guide to Money | Advice for New Military Members, Boot Camp & First Paycheck #131

New enlisted servicemember's guide to personal finance! In this episode, Spencer and Jamie share all the financial advice they'd share with a new enlisted troop in their unit. It is possible to accumulate and save while on active duty as an enlisted service member!

If you're an officer, go check out episode #132 covering all the personal finance advice for a new officer!

Topics include:

  • Money mindset
  • Banking
  • Tracking spending
  • Debit vs Credit
  • Emergency Fund
  • Keeping up with the Joneses
  • Prioritizing what matters to you
  • Temporary sacrifices bring long-term gain
  • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
  • Roth IRAs
  • SGLI and insurance
  • Account security/two-factor authentication
  • Why you shouldn't buy a house while on active duty

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Links mentioned in today's show:

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 1, 2024
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Military Taxes, State Tax Laws & Spouse Side Hustles | Military Spouse Residency Relief Act | Military Tax Experts Alliance w/ Paul Allen #130

Taxes can be complicated. Military families have a number of unique concerns when thinking about their taxes- which state(s) to file in, how to withhold taxes, how a gig economy or side hustle affects the plan, how to handle rental property, etc.

Today's main points include:

  • Common tax problems for military families
  • Important tax implications for families with a rental property or side hustle
  • Warning signs when looking at financial advisors
  • Filing in multiple states
  • Filing wholly on your own or wholly through a CPA are not your only options

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 24, 2024
Listen on Website

Tips for Separating from Active Duty, Avoiding Index Universal Life Insurance (IUL), and Military Entrepreneurship with Erik Baskin #129

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Real-estate returns, disability insurance, time-blocking techniques, and more! Erik Baskin is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and Air Force veteran. He's a fee-only, fiduciary financial planner and entrepreneur. 
 
Main points:
  • Separating from the military and lessons learned during the transition
  • Military veteran entrepreneurship
  • Knowing if real estate investing is good for you
  • IUL policies- the math doesn't work out
  • Why it's good to invest at all-time highs
  • Holding onto too much cash

Links:

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 17, 2024
Listen on Website

Continuation Pay Calculation & Timing With BRS & TSP With Brandon Lovingier, the Enlisted Money Guy #128

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Confused about continuation pay? Join the club. Unfortunately, too many servicemembers and their leaders are confused about the continuation pay benefit in the BRS. In today's episode with Brandon Lovingier, ChFC®, MQFP® aka The Enlisted Money Guy™, we share all you need to know to understand the benefit.

For active duty, it's currently:

  • 2.5 times your monthly base pay in either a lump sum or up to 4 equal, annual payments. 

For example, a monthly base pay of $4,252 x 2.5 = $10,630 bonus or $8,684 monthly base pay x 2.5 = $21,710 bonus (pre-tax)

Other important points from the episode:

  • When am I eligible for continuation pay?
  • Does it come automatically?
  • Does the program vary by service?
  • How does the payment come to me?
  • Does it reduce my pension?
  • What is the service commitment after taking the bonus?
  • Does it impact my eligibility for other bonuses like a re-enlistment bonus or aviation bonus? 

Links discussed:

 

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 10, 2024
Listen on Website

12% TSP Returns? How Long to Become a TSP Millionaire #127

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call!
 
12% annualized return in my TSP??
 
Take an inside look at Spencer's actual TSP numbers to show exactly how quickly your account can grow once you start contributing to your TSP and then eventually maxing it out.
 
Spencer and Jamie both got off to a slow start and didn't max out their TSP accounts right away. But now, compounding interest is taking off and the future is looking bright. It's ok to not max it out right away. You don't need to get it right every time, every year. Find a strategy that works, back-test your plan, and contribute automatically. 
 
Bottom line- investing in the TSP is a long-term win for you!
 
PortfolioVisualizer.com https://www.portfoliovisualizer.com/
The Simple Path to Wealth by J.L. Collins https://jlcollinsnh.com/books/ 
Personal Finance Club's chart of average stock market returns https://www.personalfinanceclub.com/heres-why-the-sp-500-doesnt-return-10-per-year/

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you're an E-4 or below, e-mail us at [email protected], and we'll send you a promo code to use for a FREE course.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 3, 2024
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Upgrading Flights on Military TDY / TAD with Points and Miles #126

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

You can easily explore flight upgrades on your TDY travel flights. It's 100% legitimate and in line with government regulations and JTR. After using government contract flights and booking on your GTC in DTS, you can check your upgrade options.
 
 
On this flight, Jamie was able to see United upgrades on an 8-hour flight for only 20,000 United miles or ~$1300 each way. He was able to transfer credit card points instantly to his United account. 40,000 points for round trip, lie-flight, first class experience is a great redemption!
 
 
You can easily earn well over 40,000 points with the welcome offer of just ONE annual-fee waived credit cards for military servicemembers AND their spouse. Remember, you can EACH get your OWN account and each enjoy the benefits. 

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: May 27, 2024
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Find a Financial Advisor You Can Trust | Nectarine with Jeremy Schneider @PersonalFinanceClub | #125

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Finance advise doesn't have to be confusing and depressing. Most of the "financial advisors" are actual salesmen. (Check out the 4 types of financial advisors.)
 
So how does a military family find good help? Well Jeremy Schneider of Personal Finance Club (@personalfinanceclub on Instagram), Shane, and Vivi, the minds behind Personal Finance Club, have a new product called Nectarine.
 
Nectarine provides one hour, no strings attached appointments with advisors for a flat fee- no subscription costs or recurring charges. You can book one hour and stop, or schedule more time. 
 
And one of our favorite parts about it- they even have a military filter to help you find an advisor that understands the unique challenges of military life.
 
At certain times in your life, getting some professional help could literally change the trajectory of your life.
 
The 2 Rules of Jeremy's Personal Finance Club:
  • Spend less than you make
  • Invest early and often
(This is not an ad or paid episode- we're just fans of what the Nectarine team is doing.)

Links:

Personal Finance Club on Instagram 
Our podcast episode #57 where we talked with Jeremy Schneider 
Our podcast episode with Sean Gillespie about MFAA
Personal Finance Club's courses (use code "militarymoney" for $20 off!)

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: May 20, 2024
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GI Bill, 529s & Yellow Ribbon Program | "529s Aren't Just for College: It's Just Another Tax-Advantaged Vehicle" | College Planning for Military Families with Kate Horrell #124

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

How to maximize your GI Bill, save using 529 accounts, and explore the Yellow Ribbon program? Kate Horrell tells us all about it in this episode where we discuss:
  • 529s are more flexible than most people realize (transfer to other family member, transfer $35,000 to a Roth IRA, other uses than just college)
  • Scholarship awards allow you to take money out of the 529 (up to the amount of the scholarship)
  • No one's ever been mad about having too much money saved in a 529
  • In general, you can buy into a 529 from any state (doesn't have to be your state of legal residence or where you child may go to college one day)
  • 529 Prepaid Plans are also available but not as good of a fit for most families
  • When might you have "enough" saved for college?
  • Yellow Ribbon program only applies to a semester where you're using GI Bill benefits. You can't use Yellow Ribbon benefits without using the GI Bill.
Remember, you can't be great at the big financial decisions like college if you've never done it before.
 
Ways to prepare for college decisions:
  1. Transfer your GI bill as soon as you can
  2. Evaluate which benefits are tied to an individual and which can be transferred around
  3. Look for scholarships
  4. Consider a 529 for your children after your basic needs are met
  5. Research Yellow Ribbon program options
  6. Consider working with Kate for 1-on-1 coaching the maximize your college options
 
Links:

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: May 13, 2024
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Earn 1 Million Credit Card Points without Annual Fees | Secret 25% Cash Back Cards | Using Rewards to Max Out Your Roth IRA #123

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Military families can earn 1 million points without annual fees?!
 
You're not going to earn a lot of points from spending. You need to focus on earning welcome bonuses. We'll teach out how in the free Ultimate Military Credit Cards course.
 
Main points today:
How to earn 1,000,000 credit card points without annual fees
   1. Greatest bang for your buck comes from welcome bonuses
   2. Referral bonuses
   3. Spending category maximazation 
 
Value of 1 million points: $10,000 minimum, $11,000 cashout value, or $20,000+ when you transfer to a travel partner.
 
Ways to maximize your points earning:
1. Use welcome bonuses more than spending for points
2. Use transferable points (like American Express) more than specific airline or hotel cards
3. Earn towards a specific redemption goal 
 
For example, if a business card offers $750 back after spending $6,000 in 3 months, that's 12.5% effective cash back! Or even better, you can pair with CSR and use at points in travel portal 18% cash back. To take it one step further, you can transfer to Hyatt or United, for example, and earn 2 cents and 25% cash back.
 
Another example: Amex Platinum 150,000 offer, and you spend all $8,000 requirement on airfare. That's 5 pts per dollar (extra 40,000 points), 190,000 points earned for $8,000 spent = 47.5% effective cash back rate! Even an 80,000 point offer after $6,000 spend would be 13% effective rate... way better than the average cash back card.
 
You can refer your spouse or friends (details in episode 26) 
 
Keep earning your points easy with 3 simple rules we use- 
1. Gold card for dining and groceries 4x (not Platinum's 1 point per dollar)
2. Amex Platinum for flights (5 pts per dollar)
3. Chase Sapphire Reserve for travel and hotels (3 pts per dollar)

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: May 6, 2024
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"E-4s Don't Make Enough to Save" | Myths & Mindsets Keeping Enlisted Troops from Saving Money | TSP Fund Confusion & Other Financial Lessons from a Young Marine, Devin Daniels @Knuckledraggerz | #122

An E-4 with over $50,000 in savings in one tour?!
 
Devin is an E-4 in the USMC who shares tips about military life, budgeting, and saving money on social media. He's done a superb job of transparently showing how a young, enlisted servicemember can cut costs and save for their future. He also challenges the mindset that you don't make enough to save anything and shares how he combats peer pressure and how his sidehustle income provided extra savings opportunities.
 
Plus, as a bonus, Devin allowed us to deep-dive into a discussion of why he chose the TSP lifecycle fund he is currently in, and why that might not be the best fund for his situaiton.
 
Follow Devin on:

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! Again, free for E-4 and below- just e-mail us at [email protected] if you're an E-4 or below for the promo code!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: April 29, 2024
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The Financial Value of a Military Spouse | Military Spouse Roth IRAs | Financial Goals and Insurance Needs for Stay-at-Home Spouse | Colleen Salchow #121

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Highlights of this episode include:

  1. How to ensure spouse feels like they're contributing financially, even as a stay-at-home spouse
  2. Setting goals as a spouse
  3. Does a stay-at-home spouse need life insurance coverage? 
  4. Both spouses can contribute to their Roth IRA (if married filing jointly)
  5. How are you treating yourself financially?
  6. How to resolve differences in financial goals and communicate better as a couple
  7. How to move on from financial mistakes
  8. How a spouse can take the lead on family finances to help throughout the seasons of military life

Links we mentioned today:

Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you're an E-4 or below, e-mail us at [email protected], and we'll send you a promo code to use for a FREE course.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: April 22, 2024
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Amex Family Language Rules | Updated Restrictions for Military Credit Cards | Revised Credit Card Strategy for Military #120

Want help refining your strategy for military credit cards? For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

American Express recently updated the requirements for earning a welcome bonus by adding family language restrictions to their cards. Learn all about what a "family" is and how to adjust your strategy for annual-fee waived cards for military servicemembers and their spouse!

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you're an E-4 or bleow, e-mail us at [email protected] for the free promo code.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: April 15, 2024
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Military Tax & Spouses: "Which State Do I File Taxes In?" Military Spouse Residency Relief Act (MSRRA) with Kate Horrell # 119

Spouse residency rules can sometimes feel very confusing. But today, Kate Horrell helps understand the rules and requirements regarding which state servicemembers and their spouses can use for tax filing purposes. We cover things like:

  • What is the SCRA?
  • What is the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act?
  • What have the recent laws changed regarding military taxes?
  • How does my home of record impact my state taxes?
  • How do spouses actually have more protection in this area that the servicemember does?
  • How does a servicemember's non-military pay get taxed?

The Military Spouse Residency Relief Act (MSRRA) is not a standalone law. It actually updates SCRA. The SCRA was also further amneded under the Veterans Auto and Education Improvement Act of 2022 which stated:

"For any taxable year of marriage, a servicemember AND the spouse of such servicemember may elect to use for purposes of taxation, regardless of the date on which the marriage of the servicemember and the spouse occured, any of the following: 

   (a) The residence or domicile of the servicemember

   (b) The residence or domicile of the spouse

   (c) The permanent duty station of the servicemember"

View the full text of the law here.

Read more about these laws on Kate's webiste and her awesome Confidently Prepared Life Binder (avaialble as a fillable PDF too!). KateHorrell.com has a lot of great info on military life, pay, benefits, and college and helpful checklists, and she's a great friend of the show.

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: April 8, 2024
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Advanced Personal Finance Topics for High Net Worth Military Families | High Net Worth Military Finances | Protecting your Assets, Tax Planning, and Investment Fees #118

For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call.

High-income, high net worth, or dual military couples, this episode was made for you! 

While not all of our audience will directly relate to today's topics, we hope that it will at least give you things to think about, topics to become aware of, and ideas of what your wealthy future holds for you.
 
Tax planning, wealth protection, and investment fees are 3 areas that WILL move the needle for you and do have a big impact on your financial journey.
 
Today's topics include: 
 
- Taxes
  • Backdoor Roth when your income is too high to contribute to a Roth directly
  • Non-deductible IRA contributions
  • Capital loss harvesting
  • Donor Advised Funds (DAF)
  • Donation batching
  • Roth conversions
- Wealth protection and umbrella insurance 
- Generously giving and estate tax planning
- Investment fees 
 
It's ok to ask for help if you're situation is getting more complex. We recommend checking out the Military Financial Advisors Association (MFAA) if you need help or don't feel comfortable doing DIY investments anymore (or even if you just need a sanity check on your planning).
 
If you're looking for a Donor Advised Fund, Jamie uses DAFFY- you can check them out here (his referral link for an extra $25). Spencer uses Vanguard Charitable's DAF.
 
Doctors and medical professionals: check out the White Coast Investor site.
 
Books we discussed today:

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: April 1, 2024
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TSP I Fund Change 2024 | New Index Will Increase Exposure to Emerging Markets | TSP for Military #117

New (and positive) I Fund changes coming to your TSP in 2024! The I Fund update during 2024 will include more emerging markets, increasing and diversifying your international exposure. 
 
This is a positive change. In this episode we explain the benefits of the change, what it means for you, and what action is required on your part to take advantage of it. 
 
It now represents 90% of non-US market cap now.
 
Best way to take advantage of this? Automatic contributions to your TSP each month! When you start in the TSP, you're automatically enrolled in the latest life cycle fund (currently L2065) which includes some L fund.
 
We encourage you to not succumb to home-country bias and think you don't need any international exposure. There 50% of the world's economy outside of the US you might miss out on without international investments.

We talk about this topic and more in our Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp and learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! (If you're an E-4 or below, just shoot us an e-mail at [email protected] for the promo code!)

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: March 25, 2024
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Can I Contribute to a Roth IRA & Roth TSP? | IRA vs TSP Limits are Different! #116

Roth limits? IRA limits? TSP limits? We get this question often: "How much can I contribute to my Roth each year?"

There are several DIFFERENT limits at play here and lumping them all as "Roth" isn't quite correct.

Public Service Announcement: Roth IRA is not the same as Roth TSP. You can contribute your maximum to your Roth IRA and still the maximum to your Roth TSP. Or you can do traditional. Bottom line- IRA and TSP limits are NOT the same. IRAs are not the same as employer-sponsored retirement accounts like a TSP or 401k.

In 2024, that means up to $7,000 (per spouse if married filing jointly) PLUS up to $23,000 in your TSP (plus up to $23,000 more in your spouse's TSP or 401k)!

Document your retirement contributions carefully on your taxes. Your TSP contributions are captured on your LES. Your IRA contributions are reported separately on your tax preparation software. Do not combine your TSP and IRA contributions and think you over-contributed and owe a penalty!

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: March 18, 2024
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Free Hertz's Elite Status for Military | Hertz President Circle | Rental Car Benefits for Military Servicemembers and Spouses #117

Want elite status with Hertz for free? Want to skip the line at the rental car counter? Want a free upgrade? Easy! As a military servicemember or spouse, you get top-tier credit cards with amazing benefits like this with no annual fee.

Today we discuss:

  • What is Hertz President's Circle?
  • How do military servicemembers and spouses get this elite status for free?
  • How do you maximize Hertz President's Circle benefit on your next TDY or vacation?

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: March 11, 2024
Listen on Website

$14,000 Profit to PCS Yourself?! | Jamie's Personally Procured Move (PPM) or Partial DITY PCS #114

In this episode, Jamie transparently shows how he profited over $14,000 from his last PCS by doing a full PPM (Personally Procured Move). The government will pay you 100% of the amount they would pay a contractor to ship your HHG. It's not easy, but you can earn a lot of money with this strategy. We talk through the pros and cons of handling yourself, what a DITY/PPM means, exactly how the reimbursement works, and what it means to my taxes.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: March 4, 2024
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PCS Pet Reimbursement | Up to $2,000 for Your Dog or Cat | Military PCS with a Pet #113

The DoD now allows up to $500 for a CONUS move and up to $2,000 for an OCONUS move for one pet per household. This benefit begins for any PCS effective dates of 1 January 2024 or later. We discuss exceptions, mil-to-mil benefits, documentation requirements, and more!

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: February 26, 2024
Listen on Website

Credit Card Tracking App Travel Freely with Founder Zac Hood: Grateful Travel + Secret Cash Back Cards #112

Today, Spencer talks with Zac Hood, founder of TravelFreely.com and CashFreely.net and their amazing apps that are free!

We personally use these apps to find the best offers on cash-back credit cards and travel cards. Zach's apps even monitor your Chase 5/24 status, recommend which card to get next and when, and track your annual fees (while accounting for the Military Lending Act waivers on credit card annual fees for military servicemembers and their spouses).

The apps are secure with no bank information or login info exchanged.

On today's episode, we discuss:

  1. Having a mindset of gratitude while traveling free on points and miles
  2. Tracking credit cards with an app, not a spreadsheet with TravelFreely and CashFreely
  3. How to find secret cash-back card offers and how to know which cards' welcome offer is the best value for you

Find Zac free apps and web-based software at militarymoneymanual.com/freely.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops

Published on: February 19, 2024
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MilTax: Free Tax Prep for Military w/ Military One Source | Tax Planning + Tax Prep #111

It's tax season! Start collecting your 1099s, W-2s, and charitable donations. Whether you do your own taxes or not, you'll need all the documentation ready to go. 
 
Most military families should be able to do their own taxes via MilTax from MilitaryOneSource, especially if you have W-2 income only with a simple tax situation. The software is FREE, our favorite one, and what we've personally used when our situations were more simple. Once you start having multiple rental properties, side hustles, or are having to pay taxes, it's probably worth $400 or so to hire a CPA.
 
We also discuss tax planning for military families, what that means, and how to reduce your tax bill and withholdings smartly. If you like getting a big refund each spring, but you're living paycheck-to-paycheck, we discuss why you might want to change that strategy too.

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: February 12, 2024
Listen on Website

Top 3 Things To Do for Your Financial Situation This Year | Money Goals in the New Year #110

Are you stressed about money? Do you have a lot of debt? What are you general feelings about money and your future?

In this episode we cover the top 3 things to do with your money this year. No, there's no gimmicks or get-rich-quick schemes. Just simple and easy-to-follow, pracitical advice:

  1. Clarify your goals
  2. Add a little bit more to your retirement accounts
  3. Automate your financial life

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! 

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5-star rated book, The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: January 29, 2024
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Military Financial Advisors Assocation (MFAA) | How to Find a Good Financial Advisor and When You May Want One with Sean Gillespie, MQFP #109

What is the MFAA or who is it? How do I find a good financial advisor who has my best interests in mind and understand the uniqueness of military families' finances? When is the right time to see a Cerified Financial Planner? 

In this episode with Sean Gillespie from the Military Financial Advisors Association (MFAA). Sean began his second career as a finanical advisor in 2013 after 20 years of active duty Navy service. After practicing solo for 5 years, he partnered up to found Redeployment Wealth Strategies, a fee-only financial planning investment firm that specialized in serving military service members and their families. 

In this episode we discuss:

  • What is The Military Financial Advisors Assosiciation (MFAA)?
  • What does MQFP mean? (Military Qualified Financial Planner)
  • What is a fee-only planner?
  • Why is the term “fiduciary” important?
  • When does a more complicated situation drive outside expertise or help?

Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: January 8, 2024
Listen on Website

Ramit Sethi's 10 Money Rules | How Do They Apply to Military Families? #108

Can you boil down all the best financial advice into a perfect list of 10 items that all work for our military listeners?

Ramit Sethi's book "I Will Teach You to be Rich" is one that we reference often. In this episode, we review Ramit's 10 Money Rules, how they fit into our personal investing philosophies, and how military servicemembers can apply them to their lives. Ramit's style encourages his readers and podcast listeners to enjoy life while saving money without being overly extreme. Sometimes we get into an obession about saving money that we get too out of balance.

What do you think of the 10 money rules? Any you particularly relate to or don't agree with at all? Let us know via e-mail or Instagram.

Our NEW course is out! Confident TSP Investor course is on sale now. For every course purchased, we'll donate one to an E-4 and below!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: January 1, 2024
Listen on Website

3 Things Great Marriages Do with Money | Research-Backed Principles to Help Military Couples Build Wealth #107

Managing day to day finances, having little to no debt, and controlling spending are three of the top ways for couples to build wealth together.

Today Spencer and Jamie are talking about a paper entitled "Financial Management Practices of Couples with Great Marriages" published in the Journal of Family and Economic Issues.

Our NEW course is out! Confident TSP Investor course is on sale now. For every course purchased, we'll donate one to an E-4 and below!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: December 18, 2023
Listen on Website

2024 TSP Contribution Strategy and Limits | BRS Matching Contributions #106

What percent should you contribute each month to your TSP in 2024? If you are under the Blended Retirement System (BRS), you want to make sure that you contribute at least 5% every month and don't max out your TSP too early. 

In this episode, we cover:

  1. 2024 TSP contribution limits
  2. Strategies for maximizing your contributions under the BRS
  3. Ways to increase your contributions this year if you are not able to max your contributions yet

Find the 2024 military TSP BRS matching contribution maximizing charts, based on the 2024 military pay raise and TSP contribution limit moving up to $23,000 at militarymoneymanual.com/military-tsp-match-max/

Our NEW course is out! Confident TSP Investor course is on sale now. For every course purchased, we'll donate one to an E-4 and below!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: December 11, 2023
Listen on Website

Andy Hill, Marriage Kids and Money: Building Generational Wealth, Health, & Happiness #105

Learn about generational wealth, Coast FIRE, saving for your kids' future, and learning to enjoy life after years of frugal living, in this episode with Andy Hill from marriagekidsandmoney.com, live from FINCON 2023 in New Orleans.

Check out Andy's new course "Make My Kid a Millionaire"

Andy's YouTube

Andy's Podcast

Andy Hill is the award-winning family finance coach behind Marriage Kids and Money - a platform dedicated to helping families build wealth and happiness. 

Andy's advice and personal finance experience have been featured in major media outlets like CNBC, Forbes, MarketWatch, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance and NBC News. With millions of podcast downloads and video views, Andy’s message of family financial empowerment has resonated with listeners, readers and viewers across the world.

Our NEW course is out! Confident TSP Investor course is on sale now. For every course purchased, we'll donate one to an E-4 and below!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: December 4, 2023
Listen on Website

Confident TSP Investing Course: How to Invest in Your TSP

Our new course is out! The Confident TSP Investing Course is on SALE now at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp. Listen to the episode for special promo code for $50 off through the end of 2023! Plus for every course sold, we'll donate one to an E-4 and below.

We created this course to consolidate all the information we've put out there over the years and to give you confidence in your investing decisions. The TSP is one of greatest wealth-building tools for military families. We remember being new and overwhelmed with all the options and decisions. So we created this course to make it easy to understand your options and make confident decisions for your future. militarymoneymanual.com/tsp- $50 off through 2023 with the promo code mentioned in the episode!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: November 27, 2023
Listen on Website

American Airlines Credit Cards by Citi | Airline Credit Cards Series 4/4 #103

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: November 20, 2023
Listen on Website

Southwest Credit Cards by Chase | Airline Credit Card Series 3/4 #102

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: November 13, 2023
Listen on Website

United Airlines Credit Cards | Airline Credit Cards 2/4 #101

Show notes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep101

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: November 6, 2023
Listen on Website

TSP for Beginners: Navigating Your First 2 Years #100

Episode 100! Big thank you to all of the listeners and supporters of the podcast!

In this episode, Spencer and Jamie go on a journey through the first two years with a Thrift Savings Plan or TSP. If you are new to the military or know anyone new to the military, this one is for you! 

Show notes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep100

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: October 30, 2023
Listen on Website

Delta SkyMiles Amex Cards | Airline Credit Cards 1/4 #99

Will airline credit cards give you the best benefits and point value? In this episode, Spencer and Jamie begin their Airline Credit Card Series with a review of the Delta SkyMiles American Express Card.

Show notes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep99

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: October 23, 2023
Listen on Website

TSP Loan to Pay Off Credit Card Debt | Good Idea? #98

In this episode, Spencer and Jamie answer a listener question about taking out a TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) loan to pay of debt. 

Show notes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep98

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: October 16, 2023
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Why the Amex Gold Card is One of My Most Used Cards - Welcome Offers, Earning Categories, Benefits, and How to Get This Card Free #97

In this episode, Jamie discusses why the Amex Gold card is one of his most used cards. Find out about the current welcome offer, earning categories, other benefits, and how you can get this card for free!

Note: As of October 7, 2023 Amex changed the terms on the Gold Card. You won’t be eligible for a welcome bonus offer on the Gold Card if you have already received a welcome bonus offer on the Platinum card. We now recommend you open the Gold card first THEN the Platinum based on this recent change.

Shownotes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep97.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: October 9, 2023
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The Enlisted Money Guy, Brandon Lovingier - Money Mistakes, Combatting Overspending, What Officers Should Know About Enlisted Money #96

In this episode, Jamie is joined by The Enlisted Money Guy, Brandon Lovingier from EnlistedMoney.com to discuss the financial differences between enlisted service members and officers, combatting the desire to spend, and what resources are available to enlisted servicemembers. 

The Enlisted Money Guy on instagram: @enlistedmoneyguy

Shownotes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep96

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: October 2, 2023
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Government Shutdown Military Pay: 3 Things to Do Now #95

Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com and Jamie talk about the potential federal government shutdown in 2023 and what military servicemembers and families can do to protect their paychecks.

  1. Don't panic
  2. You will be back paid and may be paid anyways.
  3. Focus on what you can control

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: September 29, 2023
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My Review of the Mandatory Financial Literacy Training for Military Members #94

In this episode, Jamie goes solo to give his review of the latest mandatory financial literacy course he received through the Air Force.

Shownotes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep94

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: September 25, 2023
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Invest Re-enlistment Bonus in TSP + Does BRS Have a Military Pension? #93

Spencer from militarymoneymanual.com tackles two questions from an active duty Army E-6:

Is it a good idea to invest $18,000 of my $50,000 reenlistment bonus into the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)?

If I'm in the Blended Retirement System (BRS), will I receive a military pension if I serve 20 years?

Show notes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep93

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: September 18, 2023
Listen on Website

Dreams, Goal Setting, Moving the Finish Line, & Leaving the Military #92

Spencer from militarymoneymanual.com and Jamie discuss defining/re-defining the "finish line", the benefits of dreaming about what you want your future to look like after reaching Financial Independence and retirement, and setting short and long term goals to get you to that dream life.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

 

Published on: September 11, 2023
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Kate Horrell on Military Checklists for Retirement, Separation, & Life #91

Your Military Family’s Confidently Prepared™ Life Binder: https://www.katehorrell.com/confidently-prepared-life-binder/

Retirement checklist: https://www.katehorrell.com/military-retirement-checklist/

Separation checklist: https://www.katehorrell.com/military-separation-checklist/

If you want to reach out to Jamie or Spencer for a military financial question, DM instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Spencer also offers a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: September 4, 2023
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Calculate Your Net Worth in the Military #90

Starting your journey to Financial Independence might seem daunting at first, but calculating your net worth is a necessary first step.

Spencer and Jamie discuss what exactly net worth means, how to calculate it, and how to identify debts and assets.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 28, 2023
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Brian "ALF" O'Neill, Fighter Pilot & CFP® on Survivor Benefit Program SBP #89

Spencer Reese from MilitaryMoneyManual.com and Jamie from the Military Money Manual Podcast sit down with Brian O'Neill from Winged Wealth Management and Financial Planning.

Brian is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, fiduciary, and fee only financial planner focusing on the military community and especially pilots. He runs the private Facebook group, Fighter Pilot Finance to help military pilots gain air superiority over their financial life.

If you want to reach out to Jamie or Spencer for a military financial question, DM instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Spencer also offers a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 21, 2023
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Military Retirement Overseas with Stephanie from Poppin' Smoke #88

Stephanie Montague joins Spencer Reese and Jamie on the podcast to talk about retiring overseas on a military pension. We talk TriCare, Space-A travel, visas, accidental financial independence, sabbaticals, geoarbitrage, banking overseas, and much more.

Stephanie runs Poppinsmoke.com and a US military veterans overseas retiree Facebook group.

In 2015 her husband retired from the Army, she quit her corporate job, and they set off for a one-year adventure to break from their routine and explore the world on their own terms. Since then, she's circled the globe and spent 2.5 years living in Japan. Now she lives on the coast of Spain.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 14, 2023
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8 Tips For a New Credit Card #87

Jamie and Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com share their top 8 tips for when they get a new credit card in the mail. Find the transcript of this episode at militarymoneymanual.com/ep87

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: August 7, 2023
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Mid-Year Military Money Check In #86

Jamie and Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com discuss evaluting how your financial goals are going for the year.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 31, 2023
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Free TSA PreCheck, Global Entry for Active Duty + Military Spouses #85

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

This episode covers TSA PreCheck for active duty, Guard, Reserve, and military spouses. Global Entry can also be free for military servicemembers and military spouses through Military Lending Act annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card.

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: July 24, 2023
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Military Spouse Jobs & 8 Million TikTok Views: Miranda Head from LinkedIn #84

Miranda Head, Corporate Engagement Lead at LinkedIn and @CookingWithMiranda on TikTok, joins Spencer and Jamie to talk about military spouse jobs, using LinkedIn to find your next job, and overcoming the aniexity of meeting new friends with each PCS.

  • How Miranda found remote jobs while moving every few years in the military
  • Secretarial housing allowance waiver - for short term PCS, you can leave your family in place and collect the higher BAH of the two locations.
  • Should you hide your military spouse status from potential employers?
  • Negotiating maternity leave at a new job
  • Military spouses are eligible for free premium LinkedIn every time you PCS

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

LinkedIn Premium for free for one year for active duty and mil spouses anytime you move or if you are transitioning out of service

Follow Miranda on LinkedIn

Connect with the military community - there are so many veterans who have started businesses helping other veterans/military spouses on finding employment. 

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Published on: June 26, 2023
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Military Spouse Benefits After Servicemember Death in the Line of Duty with Daniel Kopp #83

https://military.wisestewardshipfp.com/militarymoneymanual - Free resources for Gold Star Spouses and Families

Daniel Kopp CFP, joins Spencer Reese and Jamie to explain survivor benefits for Gold Star Spouses and Families.

Programs and resources for active duty military widows include:

  • Survivor Benefit Program (SBP)
  • Tax exempt VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) rates for the surviving spouses and dependent children of Veterans
  • 12 months of BAH or on base housing
  • $500,000 of SGLI plus $100,000 death gratuity, both of which can be deposited directly into a Roth IRA thanks to the HEART Act
  • Fry Scholarship, which essentially sets up an individual GI Bill scholarship plan for each surviving child and spouse
  • And many more resources and programs available to assist surviving military spouses during this extremely difficult time

More information on the HEART Act: The HEART Act permits Surviving Spouses who receive death gratuities and SGLI death benefits to invest some or all of the funds into a Roth IRA, thereby allowing the funds to grow tax-free, including when they are withdrawn or passed on their beneficiaries.

Published on: June 19, 2023
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Rewriting Your Money Scripts with Daniel Kopp: Deep Money Stories That Drive You to Spend, Save, Fail, & Succeed #82

Daniel Kopp, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER, joins Spencer and Jamie on the Military Money Manual Podcast to talk about understanding your money story. Daniel introduces the 4 money scripts, which are often learned in childhood, partially true, passed down from generation to generation, and can be completely unconscious.

  • Money status - is your self worth tied to your net worth?
  • Money vigilance - do you save too much?
  • Money worship - prevelant in the FIRE community, the idea that wealth is freedom and if you just had a bit more money, you would be happy.
  • Money avoidance - do you believe money is the root of all evil?

We talk about combining money stories with a spouse and many other topics.

You can find your own Money Scripts in the test on Brad Klontz website.

Daniel Kopp is an Air Force veteran, fee only and fiduciary CFP, a writer, public speaker, and an entrepreneur. Daniel hosts the Military to Financial Planner Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Daniel founded the firm Wise Stewardship Financial Planning, which provides fiduciary financial advice with a special focus on young widows and widowers, as well as service members and their families. Daniel brings a unique and compassionate approach to helping those going through the worst possible life events.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for military spouse dependents of active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Published on: June 12, 2023
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Military Travel Hacking Lightning Round #81

Spencer and Jamie tackle reader questions in a lightning round format in this episode. Questions include:

  • If you can only recommend one card, would you choose The Platinum Card from American Express or Chase Sapphire Reserve?
  • Why am I not getting SCRA benefits?
  • Roth TSP or Roth IRA?
  • I'm active duty. Do I need to be an authorized user on my civilian wife's account?
  • How do you cash out Amex points?
  • Do USPHS Commission Officers get MLA or SCRA benefits?
  • How can I get a free copy of the Military Money Manual sent to a deployed location?
  • Gap funds
  • Roth limit is $6,500? Or is it higher?
  • Are Amex business card annual fees waived for military?
  • Amex pop up jail
  • How to get more than one Amex Platinum card

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for military spouse dependents of active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: June 5, 2023
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Home Depot Partners with AAFES Exchange for Tax Free Appliances #80

The Home Depot is partnering with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (Exchange) to launch its tax-free offering of major appliances to military shoppers.

All active-duty service members, dependents, retirees, Department of Defense civilians and retirees, and honorably discharged veterans who have confirmed eligibility at ShopMyExchange.com can make tax-free online purchases from the Exchange through this program.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for military spouse dependents of active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: May 29, 2023
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Free Audiobooks + Ebooks for Military Families | DOD MWR Libby App, Harris County, & Overdrive #79

Military servicemembers and their dependents can access the entire DOD MWR Library at https://dodmwrlibraries.org/ and through the Libby App by Overdrive. This allows free access to audiobooks and ebooks that can be delivered to your Kindle.

Harris County in Houston Texas also allows all US military servicemembers worldwide access to their online library at https://hcpl.net/military-library-card/

Finally, your local public library probably also provides free access to audiobooks and ebooks through the Libby app.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for military spouse dependents of active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: May 22, 2023
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Dislocation Allowance: DLA Rates, Advance, & PCS Guide #78

Jamie takes it solo in this episode to explain how to get a Dislocation Allowance advance. Jamie recently started a PCS and used his DLA advance to shore up his pre-PCS finances.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for military spouse dependents of active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: May 15, 2023
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Meet Hosts Spencer & Jamie: 2 Year Podcast Anniversary #77

Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com and Jamie introduce themselves to the listeners of the Military Money Manual Podcast.

Your hosts talk about how they are investing for financial independence, their backgrounds, families, and their military careers.

They also discuss what's changed in their lives over the last 2 years while hosting the podcast.

Finally, they discuss the present state and future of the podcast.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for military spouse dependents of active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: May 8, 2023
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Military Kids: AAFES $20 for A Grade Students #76

Jamie and Spencer discuss a $20 AAFES gift card available for students of military parents with A level grades.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for military spouse dependents of active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: May 1, 2023
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Easy Orlando Travel Hacking w/ Military Credit Cards | Universal Studios + Disney #75

Jamie and his son take a trip to Universal Studios Orlando and Harry Potter World using 3 annual fee waived credit cards:

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: April 24, 2023
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IRS Tax Refund Military: What To Do Next Year & Now #74

Jamie and Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com discuss what to do if you received a tax refund from the IRS this year.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for military spouse dependents of active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: April 17, 2023
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Save Your First $1,000 $10,000 or $100,000 in the Military #73

How to save your first $1,000 $10,000 or $100,000 in the US military.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: April 10, 2023
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Erik Baskin - BLUF Finance, Side Hustles on Active Duty, & Military Separation #72

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

In this episode, Jamie and Spencer Reese chat with Erik Baskin on life insurance, when it's appropriate to hire a financial advisor, and how to start a side hustle or business when you're on active duty. Learn more about what Erik is working on at BLUF Finance and Baskin Financial Planning.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: March 13, 2023
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Military PCS Tips: How to Prepare and Maximize Your DITY, DLA, TLA, TLE, & More #71

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

In this episode, Jamie and Spencer Reese discuss how to prepare for your next PCS.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: February 20, 2023
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Prioritize Credit Card Spending Categories or Welcome Bonuses? #70

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

In this episode, Jamie and Spencer Reese discuss how much welcome bonuses are worth, how to maximize spending categories on credit cards, and how you can earn 18%, 27%, or even 54% effective cash back by earning the welcome bonuses on the best travel rewards credit cards available.

Remember: military spouses and active duty military pay no annual fees on the cards!

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: February 6, 2023
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Military Academy Cadets & Midshipmen Eligible for Military Lending Act Credit Cards #69

Military academy cadets and midshipmen are eligible for MLA benefits thanks to a recent change to the MLA database. That means cadets from West Point, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Merchant Marine Academy, and Coast Guard Academy are eligible for American Express and Chase credit cards with no annual fees.

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: January 30, 2023
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Amex Offers + Chase Offers | Credit Card Rewards, Best Deals, & How to Get Targeted Offers #68

American Express and Chase offers can be an easy way to get even more value out of your premium travel rewards credit cards.

Spencer offers a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting military annual fee waived credit cards for active duty, guard, reserve, and military spouses. The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card are all fee waived. Learn how to get yours in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

Published on: January 23, 2023
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Amex Purchase Protection, Return Protection, & Extended Warranty - $1000 Back in 6 Months #67

Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

In this episode, Jamie and Spencer discuss how American Express cards offer many benefits including:

  • purchase protection of up to 90 days on items that are lost, damaged, or stolen.
  • Return protection up to 90 days on unused items
  • Extended warranty extending your warranty up to 1 year from when the manufactors warranty ends

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: January 16, 2023
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Military Spouse Licensure Reimbursement | $1000 for Military Spouses #66

Spencer Reese and Jamie explain how to get up to $1,000 reimbursed for military spouses expenses incurred by PCS through Military Spouse Licensure Reimbursement.

Learn more on Military One Source

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: January 9, 2023
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Ben Miller (ChroniFI) | Stoicism, Time is Money, Risk, & Imposter Syndrome #65

Ben Miller from ChroniFI joins Spencer Reese and Jamie to talk about Stoic philosophy, learning humility on Wall Street, imposter syndrome, and how everything is risk.

Learn more about ChroniFI at chronifi.com/ and Ben Miller's writing at chronifi.com/blog

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: January 2, 2023
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End of Year Review 2022 #64

Spencer Reese and Jamie talk about their investment performance, budgets, changes in lifestyle, and what they're looking forward to in 2023.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: December 19, 2022
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TSP Contribution Limits 2023 | Roth IRA and Thrift Savings Plan IRS Limits

$22,500: The 2023 Thrift Savings Plan IRS Contribution limits for the Traditional TSP and Roth TSP

$6,500: The 2023 IRS contribution limits for the Roth IRA and Traditional IRA

Happy New Year! Look for more episodes of The Military Money Manual Podcast in 2023.

Published on: December 15, 2022
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Split TSP Contributions Between Roth & Traditional? Is Earning a Military Pension Likely? #63

In this episode, Spencer Reese and Jamie answer 2 reader questions:

  1. Should you split your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions between the Roth TSP and Traditional TSP?
  2. Should I focus on contributing to my TSP or should I just rely on my military pension?

While government TSP matching must deposit into your Traditional TSP, you can contribute all of your funds to the Roth TSP and you will still get the matching.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: December 12, 2022
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Amex Bonvoy Brilliant vs Amex Hilton Aspire - Best Amex Hotel Credit Cards #62

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card annual fee is waived for military servicemembers and military spouses.

In this episode Spencer Reese and Jamie break down the differences between two of the best Amex hotel credit cards available: The Amex Bonvoy Brilliant and the Amex HIlton Honors Aspire Card.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: December 5, 2022
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Jaspreet Chawla NFCU - CD Ladders and Inflation Fighting Tips from Navy Federal #60

Jaspreet Chawla, Senior Vice President of Savings Products at Navy Federal Credit Union, joins Jamie and Spencer to talk about Certificate of Deposit or CD ladders, Money Market Savings Accounts (MMSA), and inflation fighting tips.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: November 28, 2022
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My First Nest Egg | Allowance, Chore, and Budget App for Military Kids #59

Annie and Nicole from My First Nest Egg join Jamie and Spencer today to talk about how military families can use apps to help teach their kids the core financial concepts of spending less than you earn, compounding interest, and generously sharing your resources with those around you.

Learn more at https://www.myfirstnestegg.com/ or in the Apple or Google store on your phone or tablet.

Spencer offers a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting military annual fee waived credit cards for active duty, guard, reserve, and military spouses. The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card are all fee waived. Learn how to get yours in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

Published on: November 21, 2022
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Jesse Mecham (YNAB) on Target Shooting, Japanese Woodworking, & How to Budget If You Make A Million Dollars Per Year #58

Jesse Mecham from the popular budgeting software You Need a Budget YNAB joins Spencer and Jamie today to talk about how pistol marksmanship is like personal finance, how many samauri swords Jesse would buy if he was stationed in Japan, and why you still need a spending plan if you make a $1,000,000 per year.

You can sign up for a 34 day risk free trial at militarymoneymanual.com/ynab , no credit card required to sign up.

Spencer offers a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting military annual fee waived credit cards for active duty, guard, reserve, and military spouses. The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card are all fee waived. Learn how to get yours in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

Published on: November 14, 2022
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Jeremy Schneider, Personal Finance Club | Millionaires Who DON'T Fly First Class, the 90/10 Rule, & Cryptocurrencies #57

Jeremy Schneider from Personal Finance Club joins Spencer Reese and Jamie to talk how to money like a millionaire, how to invest in index funds in 2023, and the difference between cheap and frugal.

Jeremy helps over 400,000 followers on his Instagram account @personalfinanceclub and his website PersonalFinanceClub.com. He sold his first company for $5 million dollars and retired at the age of 36. Now, he helps people become millionaires through 2 simple rules: spend less than you earn and invest early and often.

Until 31 December 2022, you can get $20 off either of Jeremy's courses at https://www.personalfinanceclub.com/courses/ using promo code "militarymoney" Spencer bought both of them recently and found them jam packed full of practical information to increase your wealth.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: November 7, 2022
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Military Crash Pads, Short Term Rentals, & Military Real Estate with Air Force Officer Paul #56

Spencer Reese from Military Money Manual and his co-host Jamie chat with their friend Paul, an Air Force officer and real estate investor.

Paul has built up a small real estate empire in his 12+ years in the Air Force. He focused on long term rentals when he PCSs and short term rentals near military training bases, also known as military crash pads.

Paul shares some of his tactics, techniques, hacks, and tips for succesful real estate investing.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast or just need some extra guidance and help with your military money, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: October 31, 2022
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Colleen Salchow | Military Spouse Financial Coach, Empowering Military Families to Maximize Their Money #55

Colleen Salchow of Salchow Coaching joins Spencer and Jamie to talk about how important it is to include military spouses in any family financial decisions.

You can find Colleen on Instagram, email, and the web at:

Colleen works remotely over a year long program to help miltiary families maxizine their military paycheck and benefits. One of her clients was able to save $4700 in the first month of working with her.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast or a military money success story to share, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected] 

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking for active duty, military spouses, Guard, and Reservists. All US military branches can get annual fee waived credit cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. Learn how in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: October 24, 2022
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#54 "When I Leave the Military, Do I Pay Annual Fees on Credit Cards?" Retire, Separate, or EAS

Listener Will writes "Will Amex and Chase stop waiving my annual fees on my credit cards when I get out of the militay?"

Spencer has a great article on annual fees on credit cards after you leave the military.

The short answer is no, you will not be immediately charged annual fees on your credit cards when you separate or retire from the military.

The longer answer is American Express takes a while to start charging you annual fees again. Chase usually sends a letter to you 3 months after you leave the military. The Chase letter states that the MLA database shows you no longer on active duty and Chase will start charging you annual fees in 24 months.

So don't panic, relax, you have time to decide which cards you want to keep and which cards you want to close. Even if you need to close a few cards, you shouldn't have much impact on your credit score if you keep your oldest account open and continue to pay your bills on time.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast or just need some extra guidance and help with your military money, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected]

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: October 17, 2022
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#53 14 Air Force Leaders Talk Money, FI, and What Confuses Them About Military Personal Finance

Jamie and Spencer recap Jamie's personal finance discussion with a group of 14 Air Force officers and Government Service civilians.

Everyone agreed personal finance needs to be more discussed. Some themes mentioned were budgeting, TSP vs IRA, and investing.

Jamie and Spencer point listeners where to find good financial resources for military service members. They explore how financial readiness should be an additional pillar to consider for Comprehensive Airman Fitness, and how financial independence is achievable for all military service members.

Lastly, reminding everyone that people are hurting, and they need your support, not just with money, but that is a very common issue for military service members and their families.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast or just need some extra guidance and help with your military money, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected]

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: October 10, 2022
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#52 Q&A Should You Include BAH in Savings Rate Calculation? Military FI Savings Rate

In this Q&A episode, Jamie and Spencer answer listener Dustin's question from a Facebook message: "When you talk about savings rates, are you talking base pay only or do you include BAH and BAS in that percentage?"

It's a nuanced question, but in general you should include all of your income when calculating your savings rate. But, the fact that you're even thinking about a complex topic like a savings rate means you are already way ahead in the financial game.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast or just need some extra guidance and help with your military money, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected]

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: October 3, 2022
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#51 Q&A Military Emergency Funds: Where to Keep, How Many Accounts To Have

Justin, an Air Force captain, reached out to ask: "How do you organize your savings accounts?"

Some ideas co-hosts Jamie and Spencer discuss are using separate accounts, bucket accounts, a spreadsheet, or an app like You Need a Budget (YNAB).

Automate as much as you can and make your financial life as simple or complex as you need to. Simple is usually the best option.

Q&A or "Question and Answer" episodes are shorter and designed to answer a single listener question.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast or just need some extra guidance and help with your military money, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected]

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: September 12, 2022
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Amex Platinum Military Spouse Fee Waiver, Best Credit Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve #50

In this episode Jamie and Spencer discuss Military Lending Act (MLA) benefits for military spouses.

Military spouses enjoy the exact same benefits active duty military servicemembers do on American Express, Chase, Citi, and US Bank credit cards: the annual fees are waived on all the premium cards.

Spencer and Jamie break down the best credit cards for military spouses including:

Spencer offers a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting military annual fee waived credit cards for active duty, guard, reserve, and military spouses. The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card are all fee waived. Learn how to get yours in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email [email protected].

Published on: August 22, 2022
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#49 Rob Shaye: Military Reservist & Military Spouse Travel Hacking, Certified Financial Planner,

Rob Shaye is a Coast Guard reservist, Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and military travel hacker.

He's passionate about financial education and helping military servicemembers make the best decisions with their money. Learn more about Robert Shaye's company Fireside Finances on his website.

In this wide ranging episode, co-hosts Jamie and Spencer talk with Rob about a variety of topics including:

  • The mistakes Rob made investing his lawn mowing money at 15
  • How Rob got into travel hacking
  • Converting a Chase Marriott card to a Ritz Carlton card
  • Rob's favorite card at the moment, the Paceline Card
  • Getting military fee waivers as a Reservists and military spouse
  • Maximizing the Amex Platinum $200 airline fee credit
  • Bank account bonuses
  • Where Rob goes for credit card news
  • Recommended fiction and non-fiction books

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express and Chase Sapphire Reserve® in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: August 8, 2022
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#48 4 Ways to Budget a Military Paycheck: The Anti-Budget, Apps, Spreadsheets, and Envelopes

Jamie and Spencer attack how to budget your military paycheck. Ideas discussed on this episode include:

  • Classic pen and paper budget
  • Google Sheets and Excel spreadsheets
  • Apps like Mint.com, You Need A Budget (YNAB), EveryDollar
  • The Reverse Budget, or Anti-Budget (set a high savings rate and spend the rest)

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out my 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like the Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: August 1, 2022
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#47 Breaking the Paycheck to Paycheck Cycle in the Military

Living paycheck to paycheck can be extremely stressful. It can negatively affect your mental, physical, spiritual, and financial health.

Learn how to stop living paycheck to paycheck and to get out of the cycle of never having extra cash in your checking account.

If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out the 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like the Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.

Published on: July 25, 2022
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#46 The Psychology of Money for Military Servicemembers

Morgan Housel's book the Psychology of Money is an excellent refresher of the core concepts of financial independence and personal finance.

In this episode, Jamie and Spencer apply Housel's concepts of personal finance and investing to military life. The 3 main takeaways for today are:

  1. Save money for no reason at all.
  2. Play your own game.
  3. Better to be reasonable with a good enough plan, than rational with a plan you can't stick to.

For a military specific personal finance book, check out the 5 star rated The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com.

Published on: July 11, 2022
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#45 Smarter Military Travel: TSA PreCheck, Hotel Upgrades, Airport Lounges, + More

Travelling in the military doesn't need to be painful! Know your Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) and benefits available to you.

TSA PreCheck is free for military servicemembers. Military spouses can use the right credit card to get Global Entry and TSA PreCheck for free as well.

With the right travel rewards cards, you can access airport lounges, upgrade your seat, upgrade your hotel room, and earn hotel perks like free breakfast, executive lounge access, and other free perks.

Learn how to maximize your military paycheck in my new book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom available directly from me on my website or on Amazon.

The book has dozens of 5 star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. It's available as a:

If you enjoyed the book, please leave a review on Amazon or Goodreads so other military servicemembers and spouses can find it.

Published on: June 27, 2022
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#44 Spending Money: How to Get Bang for Your Bucks

Jamie and Spencer talk about a few of their favorite things in this episode.

Learn how to maximize your military paycheck in my new book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom available directly from me on my website or on Amazon.

The book has dozens of 5 star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. It's available as a:

If you enjoyed the book, please leave a review on Amazon or Goodreads so other military servicemembers and spouses can find it.

Published on: June 20, 2022
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#43 Introduction to The Military Money Manual Audiobook | Free Sample

Learn how to maximize your military paycheck in my new book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom available directly from me on my website or on Amazon.

The book has dozens of 5 star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. It's available as a:

If you enjoyed the book, please leave a review on Amazon or Goodreads so other military servicemembers and spouses can find it.

Published on: June 13, 2022
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#42 Stock Market Crashes: What To Do in 20%+ Drops + A Guided Meditation from JL Collins

Don't have a good asset allocation or investment strategy for when the stock market crashes?

Learn how to self-invest your military paycheck in  my book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom. available directly from me on my website or on Amazon.

The book has dozens of 5 star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads:

Three main takeaways from today's episode:

  1. The stock market has normal cycles of ups and downs
  2. Don’t panic- it’s not a realized loss until you sell
  3. When the market is down, long-term investors, like most people in the military, especially younger ones, have the chance to buy index funds basically on sale

Continue your education:

Published on: June 6, 2022
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#41 Buying a Car in the Military: New vs Used Tips, Hacks, and Advice

To learn how to maximize your military paycheck, check out my book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom. available directly from me on my website or on Amazon.

Dozens of 5 star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads:

Buying a car is usually the largest purchase of a young servicemember. Take some time to think through the decision. Even saving 10% can add up in a big way.

I cover buying your first car in the military in the book. In this episode, Jamie and Spencer talk through their car buying process and what to consider when making a large purchase.

Published on: May 30, 2022
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#40 VA Loans: Everything Military Veterans Need to Know

Active duty, guard, reserves, and military veterans are all eligible for VA loans if certain conditions are met.

I built the VA Loan Ultimate Guide to explain the confusing VA loan process.

  1. What is a VA loan?
  2. How to determine if you are eligible for a VA loan?
  3. How to get a VA loan Certificate of Eligibility?
  4. What credit score do you need for a VA loan?
  5. What is the VA loan process, from start to finish?
  6. Who are the best VA loan lenders?
  7. What is a VA cash-out refinance loan?

In this episode Jamie and Spencer explain everything you need to know about VA loans and how to use them for maximum benefit.

To learn how to maximize your military paycheck, check out my book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom. available directly from me on my website or on Amazon.

Dozens of 5 star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads:

Published on: May 23, 2022
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#39 2022 Changes to the TSP: Mutual Fund Window, TSP App, + More

To learn more about my LADS investment strategy and how to apply it to the TSP, check out my book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom. available directly from me on my website or on Amazon.

Dozens of 5 star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads:

Changes are coming to the TSP! Learn all about the June 2022 changes to the TSP in this episode.

  • New TSP app
  • New TSP website
  • Mutual fund window

Published on: May 16, 2022
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#38 The *BEST* TSP Investing Strategy! (Hint: There Isn't One)

To learn more about my LADS investment strategy and how to apply it to the TSP, check out my book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom. available directly from me on my website or on Amazon.

Dozens of 5 star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads:

In this episode Jamie and Spencer discuss several TSP investing strategies and why you may want to go with a particular strategy.

The most important thing is to a pick a strategy and then stick with it through good times and bad. Consistency and a high savings rate can overcome any investing performance issues.

Chasing performance and market timing nearly always ends up in failure. The safer solution is a long term strategy of buying and holding low cost passive index funds, like the 5 TSP Funds: G, F, I, S, and C Funds.

Published on: May 9, 2022
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#37 5 TSP Funds Explained - Guide to the C, S, I, F, & G Funds

To learn how to select TSP funds for early financial independence, read The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom.

The book is available as a hardcover, ebook, and audiobook. With 20+ 5 star ratings, the book is available directly from me on my website or on Amazon

Jamie and Spencer break down the 5 Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Funds:

  • C Fund - the S&P 500 fund
  • S Fund - The rest of the US stock market
  • I Fund - International stock market fund
  • F Fund - US Bond market fund
  • G Fund - US treasuries fund

And explain the historical rates of returns of the funds.

Published on: May 2, 2022
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#36 Legacy Planning for Military Families

Learn more about building a financial legacy for your family in my book The MIlitary Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom.

In this episode Jamie talks about his recent experience as the executor of the estate of an extended family member that passed away.

We cover building a "legacy box," why you should buy term life insurance over whole life insurance, and things to think about if you're ever the executor or administrator of an estate.

Published on: April 25, 2022
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#35 Amex Gold Card Military | Points and Miles, Amex Green Benefits Explained

The American Express® Gold Card military benefits include an annual fee waiver for active duty servicemembers and military spouses.

The American Express® Green Card military benefit is the same, with an annual fee waived for anyone in the MLA database, which includes military dependents and active duty troops.

Both the active duty servicemember and the spouse can be primary users on the card and do not need to be authorized users on each other's accounts.

Both cards can add tens of thousands of additional Amex Membership Reward points to your account. They also have complementary bonus categories to the Amex Platinum card, so you can earn more points in different categories like US supermarkets, travel, and restaurants.

Learn more to maximize your military travel benefits in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course. 100% free, email based, and I'll send you all the content straight away. Unsubscribe at any time.

Published on: April 18, 2022
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#34 Air Force Pilot Bonus 2022 - What Would You Do With $420,000?

The Air Force announced the Fiscal Year 2022 Air Force Pilot Bonus on 11 April, 2022. You can see the bonus chart and all the details in my article on my website, Military Money Manual.

If you're eligible for a bonus, this can be an amazing opporuntiy to accelerate your journey to financial independence.

Learn more about achieving financial freedom in the military in my book, The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom

The book is available as a hardcover, ebook, and audiobook. With multiple of 5 star ratings, the book is available directly from me on my website or on

Published on: April 12, 2022
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#33 Space A Travel with Luke: $40,000 in Free Flights + Why He Wanted a $148 Paycheck

Learn more about the amazing military benefits in the Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide t Financial Freedom now available on Amazon, Kindle, Audible, and directly from the author on MilitaryMoneyManual.com in ebook, audiobook, and hardcover.

Jamie and Spencer talk to their friend Luke about Space-A travel, also known as space available travel. Luke estimates he has saved over $40,000 in flights for his family over the years.

This is a program opened to active duty servicemembers on leave, some dependents, and most military retirees.

We also talk about Luke's journey to FI as a C-17 pilot and Air Force officer.

If you enjoy the podcast please share it with a military friend. A 5 star review on Spotify or Apple podcasts also helps other military personnel interested in FI and personal finance find the podcast.

Published on: March 28, 2022
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#32 Military Bonuses and Windfalls - How to Invest, Splurge, and Reach Your FI Goals Faster

Learn more about achieving financial independence in the military in The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom. Now available on Kindle, Audible, and soon on Amazon. Always available on MilitaryMoneyManual.com

Jamie and Spencer break down how to build a plan, how to overcome winner's guilt, how to be generous with your windfall, and how to avoid windfall errors.

Published on: March 21, 2022
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#31 Doug Nordman: How to Live on the 4% Rule, Recover from Investing Mistakes, and Start a Kid's 401k

Doug Nordman from The Military Guide joins us today on the Military Money Manual Podcast. While he would never say it, Doug is a bit of a legend in the personal finance, FIRE, and military finance community. He retired 20 years ago in 2002 after a 20 year career in the Navy.

I stoppd by Doug's house in Hawaii to have a conversation with him about all kinds of great military FI topics.

Doug was an early beta-reader of The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom available at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. This is the perfect book to get you started on your journey to financial independence.

Published on: March 14, 2022
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#30 VA Home Loans with Rich Carey from "Rich on Money" - Using the VA Loan to Buy Rental Properties, How to Buy 30 Doors Before You Leave Active Duty, and Why Real Estate Is the Last Investment You Should Consider

If you want to learn how to set yourself up to purchase your first rental property, check out my book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom. Available now on Amazon, Kindle, Audible, and my website.

On today's episode Spencer and Jamie welcome Rich Carey from Rich On Money

Topics we address today:

  • VA home loans for primary residences that you can turn into rental properties when you PCS
  • The 1% rule for buying rental properties and then 50% rule. Your profit is not mortgage minus rent! You must include expenses as well.
  • How to set yourself up financially to be in a position to get into real estate
  • How Rich purchased dozens of homes remotely and 30 doors by the time he retired from the military
  • The systems Rich built to automate his property management
  • What Dave Ramsey and Rich Carey disagree on
  • The downfalls of the VA loan in a seller's market (like February 2022)
  • Why short term rentals like Airbnb aren't Rich's cup of tea
  • If you can use a VA construction loan for a new home build
  • Why Rich doesn't recommend LLC structures for most military landlords
  • Why Rich doesn't recommend any books on real estate investment

This was a great episode! Jamie and I (Spencer) both learned a lot and we hope you will too.

Published on: February 28, 2022
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#29 LICWO TDY and Circuitous Travel PCS - How to Take Leave and Add Extra Stops on Official Travel at No Additional Cost to You or the Government!

Learn more about military travel hacking and how to make thousands of dollars off of annual fee waived credit cards in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course. "Leave in conjuction with official travel" or LICWO is a great deal to get a free or reduced cost flight to take leave when you go TDY or TAD. Circuitous travel is a good way to make a PCS a little less stressful and to potentially take a little vacation while you move on government orders.

Find out how to do both in this episode! Learn more in the LICWO and circuitous travel guide I published.

Published on: February 21, 2022
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#28 100,000 Free Hilton Points for Separating Military and Spouses + What To Do With Annual Fee Waived Cards When You Leave the Military

The Hilton Honors Military Program offers separating military servicemembers and their spouses up to 100,000 free Hilton points each to aid veterans and their spouses in searching for their next job or establishing their new life. These points can be used for a job hunt, interview, conference, or any other purpose to establish your foundation after the military. This is a separate and complementary program to the Amex Hilton Honors Aspire annual fee waiver program.

If you've been travel hacking for a long time, chances are you have accumuluated many annual fee waived cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Amex Platinum. If you're separating or retiring, what should you do with your credit cards when you leave the military?

If you're just getting started on your military travel hacking journey, check out the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course. It's 100% free and only takes a few minutes a day to read through the material. I will send you an email every day for 5 days. Unsubscribe at any time, I promise to never send you any spam.

In this episode Spencer and Jamie talk about the Hilton Honors Military Program, how to use it, and how to earn the free 100k points.

We also discuss if you should close, downgrade, or keep your credit cards after you get your DD-214 and separate or retire from active duty. The answers may surprise you!

Published on: February 14, 2022
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#27 Military Taxes - How to Stop Paying State Income Tax, Get a Smaller Refund, and Stop Fearing Taxes

In this episode Spencer and Jamie breakdown

  1. How to stop paying state income tax
  2. Why you should do your own taxes
  3. How to stop being afraid of taxes

We also cover military spouse taxes including the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act (MSRRA), which allows military spouses much more flexibility in which state they are taxed in.

This is extremely helpful if you need to PCS in the middle of a year. You can avoid paying and filing taxes in multiple states!

We also cover why you DON'T want a large refund when you file your tax return.

Other topics include:

  • When it makes sense to hire a CPA
  • What to do if you receive a Combat Zone Tax letter CP04 from the IRS
  • How to avoid tax audits
  • If you need to pay taxes on points and miles
  • Should you keep mortgage or student loan debt around for the tax deduction (spoiler alert: no)
  • Taxes on military career bonuses
  • Taxes on side hustles or 2nd jobs
  • Real world examples of taxes paid by military servicemembers

Resources mentioned in the podcast:

If you're enjoying the podcast, please leave a 5 star review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen! Thank you!

Published on: February 7, 2022
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#26 How to Use Credit Card Referral Links to Earn Extra Points, Miles, and Cash

Learn everything there is to know about travel hacking the military in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course. Besides welcome bonuses, credit card referral links are the easiest and fastest way to earn thousands or even millions of credit card points, miles, and cash.

Spencer and Jamie break down the easiest way to earn lots of point and miles with your Chase and Amex cards.

Published on: January 31, 2022
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#25 How to Upgrade Chase and Amex Credit Cards

Learn how to maximize your military annual fee waivers in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards course at https://militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 By upgrading Chase and Amex cards from lower tier cards to higher tier cards, you can earn valuable recurring annual benefits like airline fee credits, travel credits, and much more. For example, you could upgrade an American Express Hilton Honors Surpass card to a Amex Hilton Honors Aspire card even if you already have an Amex Hilton Honors Aspire card. Then you could double your free hotel/resort nights certificates annually and earn $500 of resort credit rather than just $250.

Published on: January 24, 2022
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#24 Military FIRE: Financial Independence, Retire Early

Could you achieve financial freedom while you serve in the military? Thousands of servicemembers already have! Check out The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom to discover the exact investment strategies and personal finance tactics you can use to achieve financial independence while you serve. Availabe now at shop.militarymoneymanual.com

Published on: January 17, 2022
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#23 Favorite Financial Independence Calculators

Want to learn how to achieve financial independence rapidly in the military? Check out the new book, The Military Money Manual, at shop.militarymoneymanual.com

Calculators we talk about in this episode include:

Published on: January 10, 2022
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#22 Roth IRAs for Military Families

Spencer and Jamie cover a lot of ground in this short, start of the year episode. Topics include:

  • Spousal IRAs
  • Contributing to last years IRA (during this year!)
  • Roth TSP vs Roth IRA
  • And much more

Did you know if you max out your Roth IRA every year while you work you could easily end up with $1.2 million by the time you retire?

It sounds crazy, but thanks to compounding interest, it's very possible.

Published on: January 3, 2022
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#21 Chase Sapphire Reserve vs Chase Sapphire Preferred

Long term, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is definitely the superior card. But you may want to open the Chase Sapphire Preferred first because the Sapphire Preferred often offers a higher welcome bonus than the Sapphire Reserve After keeping the Preferred open for a year you can then upgrade to a Chase Sapphire Reserve. You must wait 1 year to upgrade due to a federal law called CARD Act.

Cards mentioned in this episode:

You can also compare the Chase Sapphire Reserve vs Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Optimal order to open credit cards in while you're in the military. You can maximize the benefits of military annual fee waivers rapidly by opening up credit cards in this order.

Learn more about military travel hacking in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at https://militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

Published on: December 27, 2021
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#20 Points vs Cash vs Free Night Certificate: How To Decide Which to Use

Sign up for the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 to learn how to accumulate millions of points and miles. Plus, you can pay no annual fees if you're in the military or a military spouse.

Once you've accumuluated a lot of points, it can be tough to decide if it's a good deal to use points for a purchase or not. Jamie and Spencer break down the math of valuing points.

Just take the cash value of the flight or hotel you are trying to book, divide by the number of points required, and multiply by 100 to get the cents per point valuation.

So if the hotel is $100 and costs 20,000 points to book, that's $100 / 20,000 = .005 x 100 = .5 cents per point. If this was a Hyatt booking, that would be a bad redemption because Hyatt points are usually valued at 2 cents each.

If this was a Hilton booking, it might be worth it, since Hilton points are usually valued around .5 cents each.

We also discuss when it makes sense to use a free night certificate.

The new book is getting great reviews and is available right now at https://militarymoneymanual.com/book/ This is a short, practical guide to financial freedom. Most people are reporting reading it in an afternoon or on a short flight.

I very internationally kept it short and to the point so I don't waste your time.

Published on: December 20, 2021
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#19 How to Get Chase and Amex Annual Fee Waivers

Learn more about annual fee waived credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at https://militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. In this episode you will learn how to get Military Lending Act (MLA) benefits applied to your Chase and Amex accounts. It's a very easy process as long as your Social Security Number is correctly loaded in the MLA database, available here: https://mla.dmdc.osd.mil/

Published on: December 13, 2021
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#18 Best Hotel Cards for Military Families

The best hotel credit cards for military families are:

You can learn everything you need to get started with military annual fee waivers in the 5 day, 100% free Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course.

All of these cards are annual fee waived for military and come with annual free night certificates.

In this episode Jamie and Spencer talk about the 4 best hotel credit cards for active duty militay and their civilian spouses. We cover:

  • How to get annual fee waivers and check the MLA database
  • Value of hotel points
  • Value of free night certificates
  • Which cards to start with
  • How to maximize your benefits
  • Elite status with the hotel cards

Let me show you how to earn thousands of dollars of hotel free nights every year in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

Relevant articles:

Also check out my new book, The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom available right now at http://militarymoneymanual.com/book. This is the book I wish I had received as a gift on my first day in the military. I wrote it for you, the US military servicemember who has no idea what to do with your money. I achieved financial independence while I served and you can too.

Thanks for listening!

Published on: December 6, 2021
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#17 Jamie's End of Year Review

Make sure next year is your most successful year yet with the timeless financial freedom lessons in the Military Money Manual, available now at militarymoneymanual.com/book

The end of the calendar year is an excellent time to review your progress, success, and failures over the past year.

It's also a good time to look forward and set intentions for the new year.

In this episode Jamie and Spencer dissect how Jamie approaches his end of the year review and how he approaches the new year.

We discuss:

  • How to use You Need a Budget (YNAB) to quickly generate end of year reports
  • How to track whether you're on pace to FI or need to step up the savings rate
  • Jamie's biggest spending categories and what he wants to do about it next year
  • Various housekeeping tasks like checking your credit report and setting your contributions to your IRAs and TSP
  • Making sure your spending and savings goals align with your values and priorities

Learn more at militarymoneymanual.com

Published on: November 29, 2021
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#16 Spencer's End of Year Review

Make sure next year is your most successful year yet with the timeless financial freedom lessons in the Military Money Manual, available now at militarymoneymanual.com/book The end of the calendar year is an excellent time to review your progress, success, and failures over the past year. In this episode Jamie and Spencer dissect Spencer's "State of the Money" address to his wife.

We also discuss:

  • What's a "sinking fund" and how to use it to stay ahead of infrequent but predictable expenses
  • How Spencer analyses his income, expenses, investing performance, and 
  • How to set financial and non-financial goals for the next year
  • When Spencer rebalances his portfolio and why
  • Focusing on actions that move the needle
  • Using the Pareto Principle to focus on the 20% of efforts that produce 80% of the results

Learn more at militarymoneymanual.com

Published on: November 22, 2021
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Military Money Manual Book Available Now

This is the book I wish someone had handed me on my first day in the military. Shipping now at https://militarymoneymanual.com/book

The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom lays out the road map to achieve financial independence (FI) while you serve in the military.

I walk you through how to build your financial foundation, my 9 principles to achieve FI, unique military investments, and the philosophy of military FI.

The book is available in a beautiful hard cover printed in the USA, an audiobook, or an e-book.

You can find it exclusively on my website at https://militarymoneymanual.com/book

Published on: November 15, 2021
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#15 $218,000: How Spencer and Jamie Paid Off 6 Figures of Debt

Learn the behaviors and habits of financially independent military troops in my new book the Military Money Manual, available now at militarymoneymanual.com/book/

Paying off debt, especially when it's 5 or 6 figures, can seem insurmountable.

A journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step. The same is true for financial independence. The journey to being a millionaire investor starts with paying off your high interest rate loans.

In this episode, 2 Air Force officers Spencer and Jamie walk you through the exact strategies and techniques they used to each pay off more than $100,000 of student, credit card, auto, and time share debt.

Published on: November 8, 2021
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#14 How to Get Out of Debt in the Military

Check out my new book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom where I lay out exactly how to achieve financial independence in the military. One of the first steps on the journey to FI is getting your debt under control and getting back to a positive net worth.

Whether you use the debt snowball, debt avalanche, or just get it done, getting out of debt is possible!

Jamie and Spencer explain how to get out of debt in this tactic filled episode.

Published on: November 1, 2021
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#13 Maximize Your Deployment Investing: Healthier, Wealthier, and Wiser

Military deployments can be tough. Usually the "98% boredom, 2% sheer terror" rule applies. Learn how to maximize your military money in the The MIlitary Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom

If you have downtime on a deployment, you can grow not just your net worth, but your health, fitness, and knowledge as well.

A military deployment gives you the unique opportunity to increase your income and decrease your expenses to near zero. You can achieve 90%+ savings rates and make huge improvements to your financial situation.

Debt repayment, maxing out your Roth retirement accounts, and saving for financial independence are all possible on a military deployment.

If you have down time while your deployed, take the time to educate yourself through good podcasts, books, and articles. Come up with a plan and execute it with ferocity.

Pay down your debts, build your investment portfolio, and leave your deployment in a better position than when you started.

Military deployment articles:

Published on: October 25, 2021
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#12 Cadets and Midshipman: Build Your Financial Foundation in the Military

Learn how to build your financial foundation and achieve military financial independence quickly in the Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom.

Available now at militarymoneymanual.com/book

Cadets and midshipmen at West Point, Naval Academy, and the Air Force Academy or in Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC have a unique opportunity to rapidly accelerate their journey to financial independence.

When you're young your most valuable resource is time. Time to educated yourself, time to learn good money habits, and time to start investing so compounding interest has a long time to go to work for you.

In this episode Jamie and Spencer recommend several books to start your education and discuss which credit cards to get when you're in college. We also cover investing strategies, opening a Roth IRA, and buying a home at your first duty station.

Cadets can also check out our episode on the USAA Career Starter Loan and Navy Federal Career Kickoff Loan.

Published on: October 18, 2021
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#11 Are Military Officers Rich? Average Net Worth by Rank

Read The Military Money Manual book to learn how to achieve financial independence in the military. Available now at  https://militarymoneymanual.com/book/

In this episode, Jamie and Spencer tackle questions like:

  • What's the average net worth of the above average military officer?
  • Can you build wealth as a military officer?
  • What steps can you take to become wealthy as a military officer?

Dive deeper into the numbers by checking out the article on the website: https://militarymoneymanual.com/the-average-net-worth-of-the-above-average-military-officer/

We break down the net worths of military officers from lieutenants to colonels, ensigns to captains.

In a 20 year career, you could start with a zero or negative net worth and build a million dollar portfolio before you earn a military pension. Learn how to start building your wealth today in this episode.

Published on: October 11, 2021
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#10 Amex Platinum Military Benefits | Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, Military Spouses

The Platinum Card® from American Express military benefits include a fee waiver. Learn more at militarymoneymanual.com/amex

Learn more about military travel hacking in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3

Check out my new book The Military Money Manual, available to order now at militarymoneymanual.com/book

Published on: October 4, 2021
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#9 Career Starter Loans for Military Officers from Navy Fed or USAA

Soon to commission military officers often ask me: "Should I take out the USAA Career Starter Loan or Navy Federal Career Starter Loan?"

I offer my career starter loan strategies in my new book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide for Financial Freedom. The book is available at militarymoneymanual.com/book

Articles on military career starter loans:

https://militarymoneymanual.com/navy-federal-career-starter-loan

https://militarymoneymanual.com/usaa-career-starter-loan/

In this epsiode Jamie and Spencer discuss:

  • West Point, Annapolis, or Air Force Academy can get the Navy Federal loan 1.25% up to $32,000 or USAA 0.75% up to $36,000
  • Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps ROTC can get the NFCU or USAA loan at 2.99% up to $25,000
  • Some loan pitfalls to watch out for
  • How to invest your loan to accelerate your path to financial independence
  • How to use the loan to get into military travel hacking early and save money on travel. Learn more in my free course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3
  • How you can use the loan to pay off auto or student loans
  • How you can pay the loan off early
  • Debt habits to avoid

If you like the episode, leave us a review, subscribe to the podcast, and share us with a friend! We grow by word of mouth.

Published on: September 27, 2021
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#8 What's In Your Wallet?

To get started with travel hacking in the military, go to the Ultimate Miltiary Credit Cards Course and sign up today. It's 100% free, there's nothing to buy, and I only need your email to send you the 5 day course.

In this episode, Spencer and Jamie reveal their personal credit card portfolios with over 50 credit cards between them.

We talk about our points accumulation strategies, the path to 1 million Amex points, and some of our favorite features of the cards.

You can see Spencer's current credit card lineup here.

Head to MilitaryMoneyManual.com to see the best credit card offers for military this month.

Cards mentioned in this episode include:

Compare the Amex Platinum vs the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the Chase Sapphire Preferred vs the Chase Sappire Reserve.

Published on: September 20, 2021
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#7 Military Travel Hacking Questions #2

Learn more in the 100% free, 5 day, email based Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course.

Spencer and Jamie continue to answer frequently asked questions about military travel hacking.

Learn how to get your annual fee waived on the most popular card for military servicemembers, the Amex Platinum card for military.

Head to MilitaryMoneyManual.com to see the best credit card offers for military this month.

Cards mentioned in this episode include:

Compare the Amex Platinum vs the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the Chase Sapphire Preferred vs the Chase Sappire Reserve.

Questions from this episode:

  • How to get military spouse annual fees waived on Amex and Chase military credit cards
  • How to use the MLA database
  • Spouse referral links
  • Do contracted ROTC and military service academies (Air Force Academy, West Point Military Academy, Annapolis Naval Academy) get their Amex and Chase annual fees waived?
  • The optimal order to open military credit cards in
  • No annual fee cards to age your account
  • Why you should open Chase cards before American Express
  • Are credit card bonuses once per lifetime?
  • What to do with your annual fee waived cards when you leave the military?
  • What should you do if you get an Amex SCRA denial letter?
  • Which credit card should you start with?
  • Can you use points and miles to upgrade government purchased travel or hotels?

Published on: September 13, 2021
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#6 What is Military Travel Hacking? FAQ #1

Learn more about military travel hacking in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course!

Questions we cover in this episode:

  • What is military travel hacking?
  • Why do banks and credit card companies waive annual fees on credit cards for active duty, Title 10 Guard/Reserve, and military spouses?
  • Do all banks and credit card companies do this? (Credit cards that waive annual fees for military)
  • What about credit card debt?
  • What about your credit score?
  • Do miles and points have an expiration date?

Published on: September 6, 2021
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#5 9 Principles to Achieve FI Series - 3 of 3

New book, the Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom, available soon at https://militarymoneymanual.com/book/

Published on: August 30, 2021
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#4 9 Principles to Achieve FI Series - 2 of 3

Learn more about the 9 principles to achieve financial independence in my new book The Military Money Manual, available for pre-order now!

Published on: June 29, 2021
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#3 9 Principles to Achieve FI Series - 1 of 3

Learn more about the 9 principles to achieve financial freedom in my new book The Military Money Manual.

Published on: June 21, 2021
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#2 Thrift Savings Plan | Military TSP - Everything You Need to Know

Everything you need to know about the military Thrift Savings Plan. The TSP is one of the most under-utilized military benefits. It's a fantastic "401k-ish" retirement savings account that allows you to unlock massive military tax advantages. The Roth TSP allows you access the triple-tax benefit of military pay: tax free in, tax free growth, and tax free out in retirement.

Learn how much to contribute to your TSP to receive the full 5% BRS match.

Published on: June 7, 2021
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#1 Jamie's Car Breaks Down, Four Seasons Lanai, and the New Book!

Check out the luxury Four Seasons Resort Lanai we stayed at using points from our Amex Platinum cards. The annual fee is waived for military servicemembers and their spouses!

Learn how to get your annual fees waived in my 100% free, 5 day course available at The Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course.

Published on: May 15, 2021
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Trailer - Military Money Manual Podcast

The Military Money Manual podcast is all about achieving financial freedom while you serve in the military.

Spencer is an active duty Air Force officer and founder of militarymoneymanual.com, the most popular military travel hacking and military financial independence blog on the Internet.

He is the author of The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom the new personal finance and investing book specifically for military cadets, midshipmen, officers, and enlisted. 

Jamie is also an active duty officer and passionate about helping people pay down debt, 

Together the duo have over 25 years of active duty experience, 8 PCSs, and 6 deployments.

Join us every Monday as we have a conversation about travel hacking, TSP investing, 

Published on: May 1, 2021
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