Financial Assistance

The Military and Family Readiness Center can help you with many of your financial questions and concerns.

Personal Financial Management Program is here to educate you and assist you in developing financial management skills. The PFMP provides guidance in solving even the most difficult financial issues during a one on one appointment which can be made by talking to the PFMP counselor at the Center. Many seminars are conducted for all ages and the topics range from managing a checkbook to home buying.

Moving overseas can have a financial impact on service members and their families. While most costs are covered by the military, it is a good idea to set aside extra money that can cover miscellaneous spending that comes along with moving during a permanent change of station. Advance dislocation allowance may be possible for service members moving overseas. Contact your local finance office to see what your options are.

Miscellaneous spending that may come with moving to Guam may include pet travel, car rental, utility deposits (they can run as high as $500 for an off-base residence) and pet quarantine fees. Off-base rentals can also require your deposit, the first month's rent plus any pet deposit fee, if applicable.

Contact your local Military and Family Readiness Center to speak with a personal finance counselor to discuss any budgetary help and concerns that you may have.

When it comes to deciding whether to open a local banking account or not, you need to consider the possibility that off-base commercial and government agencies may not accept checks from off-island institutions. Local banks and credit unions are available in the community and you can discuss your banking needs with them.

Major credit cards are widely accepted at local establishments and ATMs are available island-wide.

The cost of living in Guam is higher than most places on the mainland. Due to Guam's location, resources can be limited and prices are higher. Utility costs vary widely depending on your electrical use and the type of cooling system in your home.

Gas prices and most grocery costs are higher off-base and can have an impact on your finances. A review and adjustment to your budget may be necessary once you move to the island. The local Military and Family Readiness Center can help you develop a spending plan to incorporate the changes you may experience once you move to the island.

The Air Force Aid Society, the official charity of the U.S Air Force, works to support and enhance the USAF mission by providing emergency financial assistance, educational support and community programs. AFAS provides interest-free loans and grants to help with immediate needs.

AFAS also sponsors the Childcare for PCS program, which provides 20 hours of free child care for service members and their families who are undergoing a permanent change of station. Contact your local Airman and Family Readiness Center for the Childcare for PCS voucher, and to learn more about the various AFAS programs.