Financial Assistance

Financial Assistance – Financial Readiness Program

USAG Miami is served by a contract Personal Financial Counselor The PFC explains Thrift Savings Plan investing, becoming debt-free, repairing or establishing credit, explaining the pros and cons of purchasing a home and developing a retirement financial plan. Members moving from overseas are reminded that Cost of Living Allowances, Overseas Housing Allowances and other overseas entitlements will stop once you arrive at your new duty station. If these entitlements continue once you arrive stateside, inform your finance office immediately. Additionally, PCS moves are expensive, and your new Basic Allowance for Housing may not start the month after you arrive at your new duty station. You must be financially prepared to pay several initial expenses at your new duty station which can include the first month, last month and a security deposit for rental properties. Ensure you plan for increased out-of-pocket costs during your move. You should keep all receipts because certain conditions may change a non-refundable expense to refundable. Emergency financial relief organizations listed below may be able to help defray the costs associated with PCS to the Miami area. Email usarmy.miami.usag.mbx.army-community-service@mail.mil to request PFC services.

The PFC assists military personnel, civilian employees, retirees, survivors and families seeking help with issues related to personal finances and include the following topics:

• Budgeting
• Debt management
• Credit rebuilding/establishing
• Security clearance
• Money management
• Thrift Savings Plan
• Retirement planning
• Consumer complaints

Emergency financial assistance through military relief and aid societies

Emergency financial assistance to eligible applicants through agencies such as Army Emergency Relief, Air Force Aid Society, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance. Visit their websites for more information on how to apply for assistance.

If you have a financial emergency during your PCS, contact your servicing aid relief organization and your gaining unit.

The cost of living for an adult in Miami can exceed $3,200 per month, which is 1.13 times more expensive than the average in the United States. Florida ranked 11th most expensive and 19th best state to live in the United States. The average salary after taxes in Florida is $4,205, which is enough to cover living expenses for 1.3 months.

• Rent & Utilities: ~$2,174 (utilities ~$95–$165 depending on size and usage)
• Groceries: ~$797–$1,000 (varies by diet and shopping habits)
• Transportation: ~$135–$260 (mix of transit, driving, and parking)
• Food out: ~$27–$30 for lunch; ~$103 for dinner for two; fast food ~$13–$15
• Utilities: ~$95–$165 for basic apartment (electricity, heating, water, etc.)
• Internet: ~$65–$69/month
• Goods & services: ~$1,065–$1,457 (includes dining, entertainment, shopping)

Cost of living for a family of four: $7,564:

• Rent & Utilities: ~$3,858
• Food: ~$2,095
• Transportation: ~$346
• Total (with rent): ~$7,564