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MEPS Medical Disqualifications: What Can Get Waived

Enlistment · 11 min read

A MEPS disqualification may still qualify for a service waiver. See no-waiver conditions, asthma, ADHD, orthopedic rules, forms, and next steps.

SBA microloans: borrowing small when banks say no

Guides

SBA microloans put up to $50,000 in the hands of small businesses banks turn away. How the nonprofit lenders work, what the money can buy, and how to apply.

Surviving a Deployment as the Spouse at Home

Family · 12 min read

Set up legal authority, emergency contacts, free counseling, household systems, and a realistic 90-day reintegration plan before deployment.

Using SNAP to Qualify for Lifeline: Why It Takes Longer

Guides

Lifeline with SNAP usually means uploading proof. Why there's no national SNAP database, what your document must show, and why an EBT card photo fails.

How to Get Real Value From Military TAP Classes

Transition · 12 min read

Use TAP deadlines, track selection, Capstone standards, and gap-fillers to leave with a usable résumé, benefits plan, and next-step timeline.

Which VA Benefits Qualify You for Lifeline (and Which Don't)

Guides

VA disability compensation doesn't qualify you for Lifeline — the needs-based Veterans Pension and Survivors Pension do. Here's how to prove it and apply.

TRICARE Reserve Select Costs $286.66 for a Family in 2026

Health · 11 min read

See 2026 TRICARE Reserve Select premiums, eligibility exclusions, enrollment deadlines, and how to compare TRS with your employer health plan.

Free government money for a small business is mostly a myth

Guides

The federal government does not hand out grants to start a business. Here's what SBA actually funds, the narrow exceptions, and the scams to avoid.

VA Combined Rating Math: Why 30 + 30 Equals 50

VA Benefits · 11 min read

Calculate VA combined ratings step by step, apply the bilateral factor correctly, and see why two 30% ratings produce a final 50% rating.

How BAH Is Calculated—and Why Your Rent Does Not Matter

Pay & Money · 11 min read

See how duty ZIP, pay grade, dependent status, rental surveys, and rate protection set BAH—and when you may legally keep money left over.

Lost or Stolen Free Government Phone: What to Do First

Guides

Lost your Lifeline phone? Report it to your provider fast, understand replacement costs, and beat the 30-day non-usage clock that can end your benefit.

MEPS Day, Hour by Hour: What Actually Happens

Enlistment · 12 min read

Follow a realistic MEPS timeline from hotel check-in through medical screening, job selection, contract review, the oath, and your trip home.