1. Use
military support services. You're
not alone -- there are many official and unofficial
sources of aid and assistance.
2. Get your legal and financial affairs in order. Develop a family care plan, and make sure you're up to date on your insurance, will, pay, and finances.
3. Organize your work situation.
If you're leaving a full-time job for service, use your benefits and protections.
5. Don't neglect the homefront. Be sure to make arrangements for your family's security and safety. Work together in preparing for the difficult separation ahead.
Being a Reservist or member of the National Guard -- and balancing a civilian job, family obligations, and military duties -- is tough enough. It only gets tougher if you're called up to active duty. This section will give you the scoop on what it all means, what you should prepare for, and how you and your family can handle the pressure. Serving your country is your duty and privilege -- but be sure to take care of yourself and your family too.
Legal Preparation - Make sure you and your family are taken care of.
Job Preparation - Are you worried your job might not still be there when you return from active duty? Get the facts. Financial Preparation - Everything from direct deposit to allotments.
What Extra Pays Do I Receive? - When you're called up, you become eligible for special pays. Find out about some of them.
What Benefits Am I Eligible For?
- Start keeping track of your days of service -- they'll help you down the line with VA loans, the GI Bill, and much more.
Medical
Benefits - When you're called up to active duty, you and
your family become eligible for a host of medical benefits. Know what
they are, and take advantage of them.
The
Worst-Case Scenario - We all hope and pray that nothing
happens, but make sure your family is prepared if something does.
Your
Children and Separation - This can be the most difficult
aspect of deployment. Learn how you and your children can handle the
situation.
Military
Support Services - Facing mobilization and deployment can
be a tough task -- don't go it alone.
Checklists and Resources
Checklists and Kits
Legal
Checklist - Everything from health coverage
to power of attorney.
Emergency Checklist - Emergencies can happen at home as well as abroad. Make sure your family is prepared.
Operation
R.E.A.D.Y. - PDF document contains useful tips
for active duty and reserve servicemembers for coping
with separation, and getting your financial affairs
in order.
Legal Readiness - JAGCnet presents guides, checklists, and other resources on being legally and financially prepared for deployment.
