09/17/2025
While there is always an uncertainty in what the future holds, we can work to better prepare ourselves for whatever the future brings. While the goal of the below information is not to replace adequate and professional counsel, we hope the information will help guide you toward informed financial decisions. Please do not hesitate to contact your supervisor/leadership, 1SGT or the Legal Office with questions.
Service Member’s Civil Relief Act
The Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act, or SCRA, can be an Airman’s best friend. Passed in 2003, this federal law added to the protections granted by the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act (SSCRA).
Probably the most important section of this law as it applies to a potential extended government shut-down is Section 3937. This allows members to re-quest and have their pre-service loans or obligations with an interest rate of higher than 6% to be reduced to 6%. While this law may require a showing that the member’s military service has materially affected the ability to pay, most credit card companies do not require such showing. In fact, many do not charge interest at all on some accounts. Further, it would be hard for any company to argue that a government shutdown, that results in missed pay, does not “materially affect” the member’s ability to pay. The great thing about this law is you can request the provisions now, without a government shutdown. Do your family a favor and make the call today. Putting the extra savings away for that rainy day… or shutdown fund would also be a wise decision.
Military Deferments, Income-Driven, and Public Service Loan Forgiveness
For some, student loans have become a regular part of life. Payments are expected monthly, and defaulting on student loans can have lifelong consequences. Unfortunately, federally backed student loans (and their commitments) do not shutdown along with the federal government. There are a few options to help stay afloat (and actually get ahead) on your student loans. Most of these options are available even when the government is functioning. A military service deferment allows members to postpone loan repayment during certain periods of active duty or immediately following active duty. This applies to federal and some private loans. Some loans are eligible for Income-Driven Repayment Plans. These plans calculate the amount you pay each month based off your income. There are also eco-nomic hardship deferments, which allow you to skip a certain number of payments due to your financial situation. Finally, if you plan on serving for 10 years or more, you should request information of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. This allows the remaining balance to be forgiven after 120 qualifying payments. Not all loans may qualify, but your lender can assist you with this process. Remember, these are just tips. The company servicing your loans will have more information.
Credit Cards Tips
In addition to invoking your rights under SCRA, there are other tips that can aid you in controlling credit card debt during a shutdown. One common way to ensure you don’t hit the financial crunch is by requesting your credit card company move your payment due date out as far as possible. While most card companies require a payment to be made every 30 days, the extra week could make a big difference during a short shut-down. While this is not the best fix, it is something that could buy a member some time without jeopardizing a security clearance by failing to maintain good credit. Remember, just like the saying “what goes up, must come down,” what you charge, must be paid off. Try to limit credit card usage as much as possible. The bill will still be due, whether you are getting paid or not.
Finally, almost all credit card companies have a military assistance program. Ask to speak with a representative when making requests. This department’s mission is to assist soldiers, sailors and Airmen. Let them!
Stay Proactive!
While we do not like to think that Federal Employees will not be paid for their service, that could be the reality, at least for a short period of time. While we have all heard “you need a nest egg” or “rainy day fund,” studies have shown that the vast majority of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. Additionally, remember a shutdown doesn’t just affect you. Other federal employees, including those at the Internal Revenue Service, are subject to furloughs. Depending on the timing of a government shutdown, this could postpone a tax refund that you may be counting on. Members can “shutdown proof” their finances by following a few simple steps. First, make a budget and follow it. This will allow members to slowly build up savings. Second, do not leave money on the table. Take advantage of laws like SCRA, which cap the interest on credit cards and other applicable loan obligations. Always stay proactive. Make sure to let your lenders know you are deploying and ask if there are any 0% interest rate options available while deployed. Remember, it never hurts to ask what options are available, whether asking your bank or contacting Airman and Family Readiness. If the member has to take out a loan to get through the crunch, remember to only borrow what is necessary and pay it back as soon as possible. Your credit is a factor in your security clearance. If you are considering working an off-duty job, remember that off-duty employment must be requested, reviewed, and approved. Again, factor in the time to route the request. Finally, be a Wingman. Keep an eye out for those around you who may be struggling with debt or staying current on payments. Do not wait until the last minute, because many options may require processing times.
Please see below for immediate assistance resources.
Financial Aid
• Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) provides financial assistance in the form of an interest-free loan or a grant. The purpose is to help stabilize a member’s emergency financial situation to solve a problem so the member can focus on the Air Force/Space Force mission. A budget is required, and payment is made directly to the Service Member by Zelle or Bank ACH. https://afas.org/
• The Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA) provides emergency grants and loans for federal workers. Visit their website for more details on applying for aid. https://feea.org/2025-resources-for-feds/
• Employee Assistance Program for AF Civilians (EAP overview -https://www.militaryonesource.mil/resources/millife-guides/eap-programs-for-federal-employees/ -of-federal-agencies-employee-assistance-programs)
Banking Support
Many institutions like USAA, Navy Federal Credit Union, and Marine Federal Credit Union often provide advance pay during government shutdowns. Please verify if your bank has offered these in the past, but understand it’s not guaranteed in the future.
Mental Health and Support Services
In the event you begin to feel overwhelmed, please do not hesitate to reach out to available services to help you through this tough time.
Su***de & Crisis Lifeline 988lifeline.org 988
Veterans Crisis Line MilitaryCrisisLine.net 1-800-273-8255
DOD Safe Helpline safehelpline.org 1-877-995-5247
Air Force Integrated Resilience resilience.af.mil
Military One Source: 800-342-9647
Up-to-date resources for feds impacted by changes at federal agencies. Curated for civilian federal employees in 2025.
