Barksdale Air Force Base  Military and Family Support Center

Financial guidance is offered to those experiencing money management difficulties or those wishing to be in control of their finances. The personal financial management counselor at the Barksdale Airman & Family Readiness Center can work with you to prepare a personalized budget or spending plan.

Please complete the PCS Financial Training available on MY VECTOR. You should have received an e-mail directing you to the site.

Contact the PFC (318-456-8144) or the A&FRC (318-456-8400) for more information.

Families arriving here should, if possible, have in their possession sufficient money to allow immediate payment of rent and deposits. The cost of living is considered to be moderate in this area, however, there are no costs of living allowances for military.

Deposits for apartments and rental homes are usually one month's rent in advance. Additional security deposits may apply when pets are accepted. Homes and apartments rent rapidly so you must be prepared to make a decision and have your money ready. Rentals range in price from $750-850 per month in suitable areas for Barksdale personnel.

Utility Deposits

Water and sewer connections, offered by Southwestern Electric Power Company in Bossier and Shreveport, is based on the usage history at the address to which you are moving. The deposit will be twice the average reported for that address. Please check with the phone company of your choice for fees, rates and plans.

For natural gas service, Centerpoint Energy is your provider. They charge a $100 new-service fee plus a $31 initiation-fee (average based on past history). No fees may apply based on credit history. Cable companies may charge deposits.

Auto Insurance

Car insurance in Louisiana is expensive. The minimum required insurance is $10,000/$20,000 coverage on bodily injury and $10,000 on property damage. Rates vary based on age and driving records. This may be an expense area to research and plan for. The active-duty member stationed in Louisiana gets a 25% discount on their auto insurance for being stationed here. This is a state law.

The Air Force Aid Society is available to assist with unexpected financial needs, in many cases providing grants or interest-free loans.

Advance pay is a possibility, but remember this money will be withdrawn from future pay and may constitute a hardship by reducing available monthly income until the advance is repaid. Start with the commander’s support staff at your unit.

The temporary living allowance provides for 10 days of temporary living expense, based on rank, number of dependents and the location.