Financial consultants help build stable lifestyle

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Thornbury
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Careless, eratic spending can easily lead military members and their families to empty wallets and dwindling bank accounts.

The Airman and Family Readiness Center financial consultants and specialists provide financial education to all members of Team McConnell, detailing how their lifestyles could prevent the achievement of their financial goals.

"One of the biggest things recently married couples will fight about is their finances," said Maryann Barry, 22nd Force Support Squadron community readiness consultant. "Trying to figure out a way to manage two different people's finances can be very stressful. There can be conflict, so we have to figure out what is the best way be resolve that and form a plan that works."

The programs offered by the seven-member team include:
· Credit Report Review
· Identity Theft
· Introduction to Investing
· Your Car and Car Insurance
· Ditching the Dorm
· Home Buying

These classes provide the knowledge to keep people from ending in difficult circumstances.

"Many issues occur when [an unfortunate event happens] and they don't have enough money in their savings account; that's when they have to get a loan or use a credit card," said Dong Kim, 22nd FSS community readiness consultant. "The best way to prevent that is developing a spending plan to focus on savings."

Approximately 30 couples are currently participating in classes to learn about building a finanical structure and investing for retirement.

"Some people look at money short term instead of long term," said Dong. "It's anyone, not just young individuals; and having a financial foundation is one of the keys to being successful down the road."

For more information or to schedule an appointment  call (316) 759-6020.