Married to the Military
If you just married into the military here are the things you need and things you need to do.
1. If you are a military spouse you are a "dependent." Dependent: any member of the military member's family. Sponsor: the military member.
2. You will need to get a military ID card (brown laminated card). Make an appointment through DEERS. You will both need to go with a certified copy of your marriage certificate. Only children 10 years and over will need an ID card. You and the children will be eligible for military services, including healthcare. You will need your military ID with you at all times. To get on and off base, buy things at the commissary, appointments, movie theaters, etc they will ask to see your military ID. You can also get discounts at select stores (list on this blog) if you show them your military ID.
3. After you register for DEERS you can register for TRICARE, which is the military's health-care insurance. You can go to the hospital on base and visit the TRICARE office or register online. Tricare has different plans such as Prime (appointments will be at your local military hospital) or Standard (those who prefer to see a civilian provider (which has the highest out of pocket costs for dependants). If you live here on Camp Pendleton you are in the TRICARE west region or TriWest. You can contact them at 1-888-874-9378 or www.triwest.com. Your PCM is your primary care manager. You can request one or they will find one for you.
4. Remember your Sponsors Social Security Number. You will be needing it alot. When you call in to make an appointment they will ask for your SSN (sponsors social security number). Bring your Military ID to all appointments. You will need to show it so they know you are eligible for treatment.
4. Your husbands pay stub is called an LES. Your husbands basic pay is the same no matter what branch of service your husband is in. You will need to know your husbands rank and years of service to determine how much he makes. Here is a Military Pay Table Below.
5. Your husbands occupation is his MOS (military occupational specialty.)
6. Once you register in DEERS, your spouse will start getting BAH with dependents which is a big difference between BAH without dependents. Depending on your husbands rank and dependents you can be eligible for a larger home. BAH is different for all locations and change yearly based on the local housing rental market. When you move or PCS (permanent change of station: orders to move to another base) the BAH could be higher or lower than your last residency. If you live on base it will use your entire BAH, but you dont have to pay utilities and if anything goes wrong, family housing will fix it for you. Its also nice to live by other wives and families who know what you are going through and you can feel safer on base as only military members are allowed on base.
7. If your husband is deployed you are eligile for the Family Separation Allowance (FSA) which is $250 per month for all pay grades. Your husbands pay is also non-taxable while on deployment.
8. On base there are tons of stores and things to do such as the Exchange (department store- on Camp Pendleton this is called the MCX or Marine Corps Exchange. tax free!), the commissary (grocery store for military families, you can save over 30 percent every year by shopping at the commissary. tax free!), gas stations (cheaper to get gas on base then off base), gyms (free for military members and their dependents), hobby shops, hospitals, child care centers, schools, and more!
9. If you want to buy a home off base you can apply for a VA loan if your husband is active duty or retired. This can help you get a lower interest rate with less money down.
10. If your husband is E1-E5 and you want to take advantage of your military
spouse benefit, Martinsburg Institute offers a number of popular programs to
allow you to further your education. Martinsburg is an accredited school that loans you a laptop computer that is fully loaded with all your course materials. You can complete your training
anywhere in the world since you don't need the Internet to access your
curriculum. One of the best parts is that, unlike a traditional college, you
allow you to further your education. Martinsburg is an accredited school that loans you a laptop computer that is fully loaded with all your course materials. You can complete your training
anywhere in the world since you don't need the Internet to access your
curriculum. One of the best parts is that, unlike a traditional college, you
can study whenever you want and wherever you want, depending on your schedule,
on the days and times that best suit you. Take advantage of this opportunity while you are still eligible. Call Taylor 24/7 at 719-649-5496 if you are interested.
11. Most bases have DOD-run Child Development Center that takes children from 6 weeks-pre-K. Prices vary based on your total household income. There are also in-home childcare programs (called Family Child Care) and after-school programs for school-aged children.
12. If you have glasses or contacts you get 1 free eye test per year. You must have your military ID card with you.
13. The TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) is managed by United Concordia. If you want to take advantage you must set up an allotment (pay taken out of his paycheck everymonth to cover costs). Your husband is already covered for Dental for free. The pay could be anywhere from $11.58 a month -$101.32 a month.
15. If you need financial help, the PFM (personal financial management counselors can help you create a budget, manage debt, and work out plans for large purchases.
16. You are entitled to 11 free counseling sessions per issue. You can call militaryonesource or go to their website to get a referal to see a counselor.
17. If you are a mommy there is New Parent Support which works with parents with children from birth to three years. You can either go to classes on base or they can come to your home. They provide developmental resources and help stimulate your child's brain through learning and give positive support.
18. If you live on Camp Pendleton, you can attend free classes events just for military wives by adding Taylor Jones Hewlett on Facebook and she can add you to the Make It Count group. You will get invites to tons of free classes and events and they provide free babysitting so you can attend.
19. The Family Advocacy Program offers tools to help prevent, identify, and deal with the aftermath of spousal or child abuse.
20. If your husband is deployed you are eligible for respite care which offers you 16 hours of free babysitting a month. (more info on free stuff for military wives page).
21. Military One Source is a website that offers everything you need to know relating to military life. They also have a toll-free number to assist you 24/7 at 1-800-342-9647. You can choose up to 10 items a year from their website for free!
*If you have painted your house and are moving out, you can get FREE paint from the Housing Office. Call them and tell them you need paint and that you have your own bucket (as long as you have a bucket to put it in they will give you all the paint you need for free to paint your house back to the color it was).
*UltraStar Oceanside Mission Marketplace Cinemas has Parent Movie Morning every wednesday @10 AM. Bring the baby!
HERE IS YOUR 411
To get cheap tickets to and tours go to ITT on base located next to the bowling alley on Mainside.
*Any active duty is entitled to free admission under the "Here's to the Heroes" program. He or she need only register, either by logging on to http://www.herosalute.com and submitting his or her information. As many as three direct dependents of military personnel also are entitled to free admission. Dependents may take advantage of the offer without the service member, though an adult must accompany minor dependents. All dependents accompanied or unaccompanied must show his or her military ID. Valid for one complimentary single-day admission per person, per year, to one of the following Parks: SeaWorld San Diego, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or Williamsburg, Sesame Place, Water Country USA, or Adventure Island.
USS Midway Museum is always free for active-duty military (including reservists) with valid ID as well as children 5 and under.
Free Best Value Admission for Active Duty military personnel with valid military ID, any day and all year at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park.
Disneyland Resorts Pass. Now through September 27th 2012, active and retired U.S. military personnel or their spouses can purchase the Disneyland Military (3-Day Hopper) Special for themselves and up to five additional family members and friends. No more than six Disney Military Special tickets may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (or spouse) whether purchased at the same ITT office or at any other military base or place. Eligible service members (or their spouses) who purchase the Disney Military 3-Day Hopper Special are required to show valid military ID at the Disneyland Resorts for admission for themselves, family, and/or friends. Valid military ID is required for any/all subsequents visits that follow. Each Disney Military Special ticket must be used by the same person on any and all visits. Each ticket requires the first and last name of each ticket user. Please be prepared to provide the needed information for purchase. Black out dates for all Disneyland Resorts: July 1-4, Dec. 24, 2011-Jan 2, 2012, Feb. 17-19, and April 2-14.
THINGS TO DO ON BASE
Del Mar Beach Resort: Our one-mile private beach offers fun in the sun and relaxation. Bonfires, volleyball nets, playground, laundromat, sundries, restrooms, and showers are available. Brand New Cabanas, palapas and beach equipment are available for rent.
Summer Reading Program: June 1 - August 1
(Mainside, San Onofre and South Mesa Libraries)
For more information, call: 760-725-5669
School Age Care Summer Camp for Grades 1 - 6
(Oceanside School District)
June 9 - August 26
For More information, call: 760-725-9723
Arts and Crafts Hobby Shop Summer Camp: Friday, June 27–July 1
10am–2pm
Ages: 6-12
Cost: $125 (includes materials for all projects, pizza, and registration fees)
THINGS TO DO IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY
BELMONT PARK
This beachfront attraction is sure to please the entire Family. Located steps from the beach with free parking and free park admission; you can pay as you go or choose an unlimited ride band for the day. Belmont Park features the historic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and other rides, an arcade, Glow mini-golf, midway games, lots of food, shopping and fun.Download a coupon to save $5 on each ride band.
www.belmontpark.com
HORNBLOWER CRUISES & EVENTS - SAN DIEGO
Dining. Sightseeing. Cruising. Hornblower combines the best of San Diego Bay for a unique on-the-water experience that is not to be missed. Hornblower features nightly San Diego Dinner Cruises, scenic Champagne Brunch Cruises, Sightseeing Harbor Cruises & Sea Lion Adventures, summer Sights & Sips Sunset cruises seasonal Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventures, special holiday cruises and private charters for groups up to 1,000 guests. Download a coupon $5 OFF any Hornblower Cruise.
www.hornblower.com
LEGOLAND® CALIFORNIA
LEGOLAND® California is growing and there’s a lot to experience. With more than 60 interactive rides, shows and attractions including the world’s first LEGO themed Water Park and the new STAR WARSTM Miniland area, LEGOLAND California is the multi-day destination for families with children ages 2 to 12.
Download a coupon for $10 OFF one-day admission.
www.LEGOLAND.com
MARITIME MUSEUM SAN DIEGO
This family and kid-friendly venue features eight boats on display; including a Russian submarine, the HMS Surprise from Russell Crowe's movie, Master & Commander, and the Star of India, among others. Add the Historic Bay Cruise on San Diego Bay for $3 (plus the cost of admission). Don't miss the 4th of July, the Parade of Lights, sailing, cannon battles and more!
Download a coupon for $2 OFF general admission.
www.sdmaritime.org
REUBEN H. FLEET SCIENCE CENTER
The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is home to Southern California's only IMAX® Dome Theater and 100+ hands-on exhibits for all ages. Watch immersive giant-screen films on the 76-foot tilted dome and experience seven galleries of fun, “do touch” exhibits. Kid City is a dedicated area for children 5 and under to explore the everyday working world in a safe environment.
Download a coupon for $2 OFF Adult & $1 OFF Child IMAX Admission.
www.rhfleet.org
SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN
Explore an urban oasis with four miles of garden trails on 37 acres. Enjoy restful vistas, flowering trees, majestic palms, and the nation’s largest bamboo collection. Thanks to our mild climate, plants from all over the world thrive here. Experience a variety of microclimates and the sensation of going from the desert to a tropical rainforest. Kids love the interactive Hamilton’s Children’s Garden.
Download a coupon for One FREE Child Admission with One Paid Adult Admission. Now through September 5, 2011 Military Family Members get in Free and FREE parking!!!!
www.SDBGarden.org
Soak City Water Park
Active military get in Free July 4 and 5!
SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Focusing on the southern and Baja California region, the San Diego Natural History Museum offers exciting, colorful, and interactive exhibitions. Your family will enjoy a spend-the-whole-day museum experience viewing major exhibitions and giant-screen 3D films shown every hour (included in admission). Located in beautiful Balboa Park, this Museum is a flagship cultural institution of San Diego and is surely not to be missed.
Download a coupon for $3 OFF adult admission and $2 OFF all other admissions.
www.sdnhm.org
SAN DIEGO ZOO
No trip to San Diego would be complete without a visit to the world-famous San Diego Zoo located in historical Balboa Park! With more than 4,500 mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in its lushy 100 planted acres; the San Diego Zoo holds one of the finest animal and botanical collections in the world including rare and endangered giant pandas. Download a coupon for $4 OFF a One-Day Pass.
www.sandiegozoo.org
SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK
Located 30 miles northeast of the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Safari Park (formerly Wild Animal Park) is an expansive wildlife sanctuary on 1,800 acres and home to more than 3,500 animals, including a renowned botanical collection. Here you will come "nose to nose" with the 'big cats' at Lion Camp and see herds of elephants, antelope and giraffes on the Journey into Africa Tour. Download a coupon for $4 OFF a One-Day Pass.
www.sdzsafaripark.org
SEA LIFETM AQUARIUM
Visit the SEA LIFETM Aquarium at the LEGOLAND® California Resort. Featuring play zones, fun facts and quiz trails, SEA LIFE is a child's interactive guide to the life of the sea. Families will discover the Lost City of Atlantis and a sunken shipwreck, along with a variety of incredible sea creatures!Download a coupon for $3 OFF one day admission.
www.sealifeus.com
SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO
SeaWorld® takes you on a one-of-a-kind journey to the wonders that exist beyond the ocean's door. Invigorate your spirit through up-close encounters with playful dolphins, graceful bat rays or gentle beluga whales. Experience the thrill of riding the high seas on pulse-pounding rides. Let your heart be swept away by the power and awe of the sea's mighty ruler, Shamu.®Download a coupon for Adults at Kids Price.
www.SeaWorldSanDiego.com
USS MIDWAY MUSEUM
Experience life at sea without leaving port! The USS Midway Museum is San Diego’s newest visitor attraction. This real naval aircraft carrier offers a once in a lifetime opportunity for everyone. Get ready to get underway with a new family audio tour, perfect for children ages 7-12. Kids and adults alike are led through the exciting deployment preparations with fictional character Airman Rodriquez.Download a coupon for $2 OFF Adult and $1 OFF Youth General Admission
www.midway.org
THINGS TO DO IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY
CATALINA EXPRESS
Just an hour boat ride off the coast of Southern California sits Catalina Island and its picturesque town of Avalon. Dining, shopping, beach and water activities spoil visitors for the day or an overnight stay. Catalina features the NEW and only zip line in Los Angeles!
Download a coupon for $7.50 OFF adult round trip tickets.
www.CatalinaExpress.com
HORNBLOWER CRUISES & EVENTS - LOS ANGELES
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to try something unique, Hornblower offers a magical escape even if only for a couple hours! Enjoy amazing views and delicious cuisine aboard Hornblower's weekend Dinner and Brunch Cruises or reserve an entire yacht. Sailing the serene waters on your own exclusive yacht is the perfect way to reward employees, entertain clients or toast to the holidays.
Download a coupon for $10 OFF Hornblower Dinner Cruises.
www.hornblower.com
LA CITY TOURS
Take a sweeping, thrill packed tour of the Entertainment Capital of the World! Sample the rich history, diverse culture, sun-drenched beaches and pulsating movie tempos of Los Angeles. With a "movie star on every corner," and surprises galore awaiting you, LA City Tours has packaged the most popular and requested sites throughout the City of Angels. Reserve your L.A. City Tour today!Download a coupon for $5 OFF.
www.lacitytours.com
MADAME TUSSAUDS HOLLYWOOD
Madame Tussauds Hollywood is the best interactive wax attraction in Los Angeles! Located next door to Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, it’s where fans go to mingle with the “stars” – over 100 film icons, action heroes, athletes, and more. Check out memorable movie sets spread over three floors. Remember to bring a camera to capture the ultimate souvenir photo. Who do you want to meet?
Download a coupon for $8 OFF Adult/Child Admission.
www.madametussauds.com/hollywood
PACIFIC PARK AT THE SANTA MONICA PIER
Add sizzle to your summer and enjoy a day at the West Coast's only amusement park located on a pier! Located on the world famous Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park® has 12 amusement park rides, including the Pacific Wheel, the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, and 2 all-new family rides, plus 21 Midway games and an oceanfront food plaza.Download a coupon for 20% OFF an all day unlimited ride wristband.
www.pacpark.com
QUEEN MARY
When luxury liners sailed the high seas, THE QUEEN MARYSM was among the grandest of all. Now a unique hotel and attraction, she rests along 45 lush waterfront acres in Long Beach. Classic elegance and modern amenities such as original guest rooms, entertainment, daily tours, award-winning restaurants, unique shopping and fascinating exhibits make THE QUEEN MARY a remarkable destination like no other.Download a coupon for $10 OFF General Admission and 20% OFF Dining.
www.queenmary.com
SANTA CATALINA ISLAND COMPANY & DISCOVERY TOURS
Discover the magic of Catalina Island with Discovery Tours. We offer land and sea tours in everything from our New Zip Line Eco Tour and Sea Trek Undersea Adventure to the semi-submersibles and rugged four-wheel drives. Let our guides show you the rich history, culture, and nature that makes Catalina Island one of the most popular destinations in Southern California.Download a coupon to buy one tour and get the second tour FREE.
www.visitcatalinaisland.com
SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN
Whether you're looking for heart-pounding coasters, with favorites like X2, Goliath, or Tatsu, drenching water rides, or pint-sized fun in two children's playlands, Six Flags Magic Mountain has something for thrill seekers of all ages. No wonder it's called the thrill capital of the world!
Download a coupon for $20 OFF Admission.
www.sixflags.com
STARLINE TOURS
Starline Tours is the premier Los Angeles tour company and creator of the original Movie Stars’ Homes Tour. Offering a full range of tours including Hop-On Hop-Off Double-Deckers, City Tours, Beach Tours, 1-Hour Hollywood Fun Tours, Theme Parks and Attractions. We pick up from most Greater Los Angeles hotels. We also offer tours of San Francisco, Yosemite, and the coast.Download a coupon for $5 OFF tour admission.
www.starlinetours.com
THE HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS
This unique cultural complex spreads over 120 acres of breathtaking gardens and combines priceless permanent and visiting art exhibitions in three galleries, vast botanical gardens and collections of rare books including a Gutenberg Bible. The Huntington Art Gallery houses one of the most distinguished collections of 18th- and 19th-century British art outside London, including Thomas Gainsborough’s famous Blue Boy. 11 miles from downtown Los Angeles, next to Pasadena.
Download a coupon for $2 OFF adult admission.
www.huntington.org
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD
First, go behind-the-scenes on the legendary Studio Tour to explore where Hollywood movies are made. Then, face action head-on in heart-pounding rides, shows and attractions that put you inside some of the world’s biggest movies. Plus, don’t miss the all-new King Kong 360 3-D attraction created by Peter Jackson. It’s the world’s largest 3-D experience and it’s only at Universal Studios HollywoodSM.Download a coupon for Buy A Day, Get Second Day FREE or $5 OFF Front of Line Pass.
www.universalstudioshollywood.com
WARNER BROS. STUDIOS VIP TOUR
Warner Bros. Studios invites you to take an exclusive look behind-the-scenes to see firsthand how we create the magic and bring your favorite television shows and films to life. We'll take you where the action is-through back lot streets, sound stages, sets and craft shops. Be on the lookout for a star as production is happening all around.Download a coupon for $5 OFF admission to Warner Bros. Studios VIP Tour.
www.wbstudiotour.com
THINGS TO DO IN ORANGE COUNTY
DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING & WHALE WATCHING
For fun activities on the water for the whole family, our exciting fishing trips are perfect for both the novice and the experienced angler. We also offer year-round Whale Watching! Come see the Gray Whale Migration, November - April, and the majestic Blue Whale, May - October! Both on state-of-the-art vessels. Our 2-hour cruises depart daily and are the best value in town!
Download a coupon for 50% OFF any local fishing trip or 20% OFF any 2-hour whale watching trip.
www.danawharf.com
K1 SPEED
K1 Speed is offering $5 off the Arrive and Drive session. What is that you ask? The Arrive and Drive experience is one of the foundations of K1 Speed’s reputation, along with challenging indoor tracks and eco-friendly electric karts. Walk-in customers are welcome to come in anytime and experience the adrenaline rush of racing.Download a coupon for $5 OFF your next Arrive & Drive Race.
www.k1speed.com
KNOTT'S BERRY FARM
With over 165 rides, shows and attractions in five themed areas, Knott’s Berry Farm has it all when it comes to family fun. Knott’s is on a mission to deliver “First-Class” thrills with the opening of their newest coaster, Pony Express, which promises a horseback relay at speeds never imagined in the Old West!Download a coupon for $10 OFF adult admission.
www.knotts.com
MEDIEVAL TIMES DINNER & TOURNAMENT®
Celebrating 25 years in California! Knights on horseback - authentic jousting tournament – dangerous sword fights – 30 magnificent horses – all while you dine on a sumptuous four-course feast. An unforgettable evening for the entire family. Experience North America’s #1 dinner attraction. Open 365 days a year. Free parking.Download a coupon for $15 OFF Adult Regular Admission; $10 OFF Child Regular Admission.
www.medievaltimes.com
NEWPORT LANDING WHALE WATCHING
Year-round 2 ½ hour whale watching cruises daily view giant blue whales over 90 feet in length, grey whales, finback whales, bottlenose dolphin, common dolphin, and over a dozen other species of whale and dolphin. Newport Landing is located in Newport Beach, Orange County, only minutes from Los Angeles & San Diego. We are very proud of our 96% viewing success rate for every cruise.
Download a coupon for $18 (50% OFF) whale watching cruise and $49 (30% OFF) Catalina Island whale watching day cruise.
www.newportwhales.com
