My Spouse is Deploying

It's official, your spouse has received orders to deploy overseas and you are filled with a ton of mixed emotions. Although it can take a while for your emotions to calm down you can alleviate some of the stress by being somewhat prepared. I use the word somewhat because the truth of the matter is you will never fully be prepared for your spouse being sent off to a war zone.

Here are six important tips to having a stress free deployment:

1. Discuss all financial matters beforehand
If your spouse has never paid the bills before now is the time to exchange account numbers as well as add your spouse as an authorized user to any account that may only be in the service members name so that your spouse can speak on your behalf if there is an issue with the account. Believe it or not money can cause many problems in a relationship especially during deployment. I have known many military wives whose husbands spend larger then normal amounts of money while overseas mainly because during there down time they are bored and find entertainment in shopping. In this case see if your spouse will agree to set up an allotment which will keep him/her from using the money that is set aside for bills and will also keep your bank accounts in the positive and checks from bouncing.

2. Have all contact information written down
It is essential not to only have your spouses relatives contact information but his unit contact information as well. When a unit deploys their is always a small crew of service members that stay back which are known as the rear detachment, If you have any questions they are there for you to contact as well as the FRG which most units have.

3. Keep all documents in a safe place
Problems always seem to arise at the most inopportune time, so to minimize them keep all important documents in a lock box or waterproof document holder.
Important documents include dependants social security cards, birth certificates, marriage licenses, power of attorney and also a copy of your spouses orders.

4. As I mentioned above one of the most important documents is a Power of Attorney. The legal definition of a POA is a legal designation by an individual that grants to another the authority to execute documents in the name of the grantor, as if he or she actually signed the documents. While not necessary it is a very useful tool especially if you are married and will need to handle any business matters that may require your spouses signature.

5. Although a will is difficult to discuss it is essential document to have in the event a tragedy occurs. If a will is not executed property is usually turned over to the state and may not be distributed the way the deceased may have wanted.

6. Last but not least review the SGLI life insurance policy information with your spouse. If your just recently married and your spouse was in the service before hand verify who the beneficiaries are on the policy.