As summer winds down, the back-to-school season begins. Many families have to deal with schedule changes, new routines, and, of course, school supply shopping. For government employees and military households, planning ahead can make all the difference in easing the transition without stretching your wallet too thin.
Whether you’re sending little ones to kindergarten or prepping teens for high school, here are smart ways to save while giving your kids everything they need to succeed:
Avoid last-minute scrambles by making a detailed list of everything you need.
Take inventory of what you already have at home.
Time purchases around tax-free weekends in your state.
Use cashback apps or loyalty programs from major retailers.
Budget for the Full Year—Not Just August
Back-to-school costs don’t stop at pencils and notebooks.
Account for field trips, extracurricular fees, sports gear, and seasonal clothing.
Create a small “school buffer” in your monthly budget to handle unexpected expenses.
GEA members have access to exclusive benefits that can help lighten the financial load, especially when it comes to healthcare and protection for the whole family.
TRICARE Supplement Insurance can help fill the gaps TRICARE doesn’t cover, including copays, deductibles, and out-of-network costs, keeping surprise bills from derailing your budget.
Dental and Vision Insurance options are available to help you manage back-to-school checkups, braces, glasses, or contacts at a lower out-of-pocket cost.
Life Insurance coverage can give your family extra peace of mind this school year, especially if you’re looking to strengthen your long-term financial safety net.
These benefits are built with government and military families in mind.
Back-to-school isn’t just a financial shift—it’s emotional, too. You may feel the pressure of juggling work, school schedules, and rising costs.
Set routines early to make the first few weeks smoother.
Communicate with your kids about expectations and encourage open conversations about stress or anxiety.
Don’t forget to take care of yourself—your peace of mind matters, too.
Want to learn more about how GEA benefits can help your family this school year?
Contact us today or explore your options at www.geausa.org.