In the midst of packing bags and saying goodbye during your service member’s pre-deployment, emotions are running high. It’s difficult enough to make time for the grocery store, let alone worry about organizing your finances for the next few months or years. However, it is imperative to have this conversation with your spouse before they leave, especially if you will be paying the bills.

Through my 20 years of experience as a leader in the Marine Corps and current position as the business development officer and military relations representative at Miramar Federal Credit Union, I have a few valuable tips that will make this transition as easy as possible.