We’re in the middle of PCS season. Getting financially prepared for a big move can be challenging but planning ahead can help alleviate some of the stress of moving. Here are three quick and easy steps to help you prepare financially for your next PCS move.
- Revisit your auto insurance policy.
The rate of your car insurance is determined by a number of factors, including your age, driving history, car, and credit score. However, your address is one of the most heavily weighted factors. Believe it or not, you could have the same car, driving record, and credit score, but see a huge price change in your insurance rate simply because of your new address.
Contact your auto insurance provider to determine how your payments will be affected by your change of address. As a service member, you may be entitled to additional discounts to avoid a huge increase in payment. You should already be receiving a military discount, but if you’re not, be sure to bring this to your provider’s attention as well.
By learning before you move whether you’ll need to pay more money for your car insurance, you’ll have time to financially prepare for your new rate. If your insurance rate is lowered, you may be able to use the money you previously budgeted for insurance toward savings or paying down debt. If your rate will be higher, you can take a look at your budget to determine where you can cut costs to afford to pay your new price. >> Learn your rights under the Service Member Civil Relief Act.
- Review your renters insurance policy.
Renters insurance is designed to protect your valuable household items and replace property that is stolen or damaged in your home. Various policies cover various things, from electronic protection to bedbug coverage. If you don’t already have renters insurance, consider finding a policy that works for you. Make sure you are covered.
Be sure to follow the same steps for your car insurance with your renters insurance. Find out how much your payments will increase or decrease based on your new address and make sure you’re receiving the military discount if your provider offers it.
Finding out how your rates will be affected will allow you to adjust your budget for PCSing. >> Learn about budgeting.
- Explore your child care options.
If you have young children, be sure to check out the child care options available to you at your new location. You might have access to on-post child care or your Family Readiness Center may be able to share some of the most affordable child care available in the area.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, compare prices to determine the best option for you and your family. By making the appropriate financial plans before PCSing, you and your family will be prepared.
Let Military Saves help you save money so you can feel confident about your finances. It all starts when you make a commitment to yourself to save. Take the first step today and take the Military Saves pledge to save money, reduce debt, and build wealth over time. And it doesn't stop there. Military Saves will keep you motivated with information, advice, tips, and reminders to help you reach your goal. Think of us as your own personal support system.
Get financially prepared for your next PCS move with these tips from @MilitarySaves! https://bit.ly/2ODbXtW
