Financial Assistance

The Financial Readiness Program (FRP) at ACS offers new car buying advice and assistance with consumer problems such as creditor disputes.  Periodic classes are offered on subjects including: credit buying, checkbook management, money management, investing and other consumer topics.

The Financial Assistance portion of the program offers one-on-one confidential budget counseling, debt liquidation assistance /referral, and financial planning for long and short-term and assistance with derogatory financial information affecting security clearances.

The program can also offer emergency financial assistance for food, shelter or transportation. 

Contact: 703-696-2177

The cost of living for this area is 32.8% higher than the United States average.

Housing Costs

The average cost of housing for Northern Virginia/Maryland/D.C. is $420,000; the median cost is $644,900. Average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment is $860-$1,840; two bedrooms, $1,230-$2,320.

Average monthly utilities vary depending on the area in which you live, but below are some averages:

• Electric -- $60-$150
• Gas -- $40-$100
• Water -- $25-$60
• Trash -- $15-$35

Although housing in this area is expensive, the Fort Myer housing office has a rental partnership program with various properties that offer military personnel a discount.

In addition to housing costs, it is important to also consider the cost of commuting, child care and other living expenses when establishing your budget or looking for housing. In this area, employees who choose to use public transportation can offset the cost of commuting by applying for a mass transit benefit subsidy of up to $230 a month.

While moving to this area can be challenging to a budget, the good news is that your entertainment costs can be lower here than at most other locations. The area offers a number of free or low-cost events and activities in which you can participate.

If an emergency arises while you are in transit, contact the nearest military facility if possible and ask for relief society (e.g. Army Emergency Relief, Air Force Aid Society, Navy Marine Corps Relief Society). If you are not near a military installation, you should contact the American Red Cross at 1-877-272-7337.

Care should be taken when considering drawing an advance on your pay as this is a loan which will reduce your monthly pay. Start up costs for housing and other expenses are high in the area and you may need all available money without the burden of having to pay back the advance. You may consider contacting the Financial Readiness Program or Army Emergency Relief for assistance at 703-696-3510.