Financial readiness equals peace of mind for Airmen Published May 12, 2011 By Crystal Jordan Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- In April, military and civilian Airmen got a bit of a financial scare when there was a chance that for lack of an approved federal budget they wouldn't be paid. "Many servicemembers and civilian government personnel believed their pay was guaranteed," said Joseph Montanaro, certified financial planner for USAA financial services company. "This close call opened some eyes to the importance of financial readiness." Experts like Mr. Montanaro say it's important to have money set aside for the unexpected, be it a government shutdown or any other unanticipated expense. Ms. Stephanie Reyes, a chief of programs at the Airman and Family Readiness Center here, said setting aside an emergency fund provides peace of mind, allowing people to concentrate on the mission instead of economic uncertainties. "Emergency funds--a savings account amounting to three months worth of living expenses--should be our Airmen's first priority when building a budget," she said. An 'emergency-fund' savings account is the cornerstone to a monthly budget, Mr. Montanaro said. But it can be hard to know where to start. Most families don't believe it's possible to save enough money to make a difference, said Ms. Reyes. She has a simple answer, "start small." Any amount set aside each month will help with trying to establish financial security, she said. Counselors at Airmen and Family Readiness Centers offer classes for Airmen--military and civilian--to help build budgets and educate them on investment and saving strategies. Financial institutions and banks like USAA offer financial planning assistance as well. "We help them build budgets, manage expenses, and aid in planning for retirement," Ms. Reyes said.