Fort Carson Finance Office: Managing Your Money, Serving Our Soldiers

The Finance Office at Fort Carson plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial well-being of soldiers, their families, and civilian employees stationed at the Mountain Post. This office provides a comprehensive range of financial services, acting as a vital resource for navigating the complexities of military pay, allowances, and entitlements.

Key Services Offered

Understanding the services provided by the Finance Office is essential for all personnel assigned to Fort Carson. Some of the most frequently utilized services include:

• Military Pay Support: This is the cornerstone of the Finance Office’s operations. They handle all aspects of military pay, including ensuring accurate and timely payments of base pay, special pays, and allowances. They also address pay discrepancies and provide assistance with understanding Leave and Earnings Statements (LES).
• Travel Pay Reimbursement: Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves, temporary duty assignments (TDY), and other official travel generate expenses. The Finance Office processes travel vouchers, ensuring soldiers are reimbursed for authorized travel expenses.
• Debt Management Assistance: Financial difficulties can arise for various reasons. The Finance Office offers financial counseling and guidance to help soldiers manage debt, create budgets, and avoid financial pitfalls. They can provide resources and referrals for more specialized assistance if needed.
• Garnishment and Levy Processing: The Finance Office manages garnishments and levies against soldiers’ pay, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
• Tax Assistance: While not offering direct tax preparation services, the Finance Office often provides information and resources related to military-specific tax benefits and deductions. They may also host or facilitate access to Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs during tax season.
• Defense Travel System (DTS) Support: DTS is the system used for managing official travel. The Finance Office provides training and assistance with using DTS for travel authorizations and voucher submissions.

Accessing the Finance Office

The Fort Carson Finance Office typically has designated service windows and may require appointments for certain services. It is crucial to check their website or call ahead to confirm operating hours, required documentation, and appointment availability. Knowing the specific reason for your visit will help streamline the process and ensure you bring all necessary paperwork. Most Finance Offices require a valid military ID card for service.

Beyond Transactions: Financial Education

Increasingly, the Finance Office emphasizes financial education to promote long-term financial stability. They may offer workshops and seminars on topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, and retirement planning. Taking advantage of these educational opportunities can empower soldiers and their families to make informed financial decisions and build a secure future.

In conclusion, the Finance Office at Fort Carson is a valuable resource dedicated to providing comprehensive financial support to the military community. By understanding the services offered and proactively seeking assistance when needed, soldiers and their families can navigate the financial landscape with confidence.