Preparing for Life Events

Military: Important General Information:

The military has a wide range of departments and resources that can provide personal and spiritual assistance to individual Reservists and their families. There are websites that spouses can visit and also groups that help with a variety of issues, from financial to personal. Take advantage of this assistance.

Following is some important information to help you become more prepared as a reservist:

Power of Attorney -- A power of attorney gives someone else (a spouse, relative, good friend) the legal power to act on your behalf when you are not able to act yourself.

ID Cards -- Every eligible member of the family needs to have the Uniformed Services Identification and Privilege Card (ID). During peacetime, the ID card affords family members certain entitlements such as exchange privileges, limited commissary privileges, recreational facilities, and military discounts. However, if the service member is called to active duty for longer than 30 days, the ID card will be necessary for medical benefits, arranging a transfer of goods, or obtaining base housing.

Address and Phone Numbers -- Your military unit should have the address and phone numbers of your family, as well as names, addresses and phone numbers of one or two other relatives, friends or neighbors who can be contacted in case of emergency.

Information for Remaining Spouse -- Your spouse should have the names, addresses and phone numbers of the unit commander, military community service center, Guard or Reserve Family Program Coordinator, rear detachment commander and representatives from the Family Readiness Group.

Papers to Keep in Order -- Family papers such as marriage and birth certificates, insurance policies, and deeds and/or mortgage papers should be identified and kept in a safe place.

Other general things that you or your spouse will need:

• House, car, and safety deposit box keys.

• Appropriate social security numbers.

• School registration papers.

• Proof of service documents and copies of orders and all endorsements.

• Shipping orders and/or inventory of household goods.

• Court orders for support and custody of legal dependents, if necessary.