What are the steps I should take with the military after getting married?

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 10:40:03 -0500

me and my girlfriend are about to get married(officially on paper) next week (have been engaged a while and all so not asking for opinions on that). She leaves for Basic training feb 4 and I guess im unsure what the steps are to go from here. trying to get what we need done before she leaves

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Jan 8 at 2021 11:00 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 11:00:39 -0500

Once you have the marriage license you will need to both submit your documentation to ensure everything is in the system.

Outside of that I am not sure what else you are wanting to know.

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Jan 8 at 2021 11:02 AM

Lt Col Charlie Brown — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 11:02:26 -0500

As soon as you have that offial marriage license, find out where the nearest base is and have her make an appointment with personnel. Otherwise you won't get any motivations while she is away, you won't be her next of kin.
Also both of you check out the Red Cross Hero care app

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jan 8 at 2021 2:35 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 14:35:48 -0500

Take your official state or county marriage certificate to the nearest military installation and get your new spouse entered into DEERS as a dependent. Assuming you're Active Duty, having a dependent may change your status with reference to living in the barracks, drawing BAH and separate rations. When Mrs Keeling checks in for Basic Training, she'll need to update her marital status with the Army (again the marriage certificate would be good to have). The Army will sort out whom receives BAH between the two of you. Mutual spouse assignments will be a challenge, but after Mrs Keeling completes Basic and AIT she may be able to be assigned near you or at the same installation.

Response by Maj John Bell made Jan 8 at 2021 3:28 PM

Maj John Bell — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 15:28:07 -0500

Don't get advice on RallyPoint about normal administrative matters. See your unit PersO and the Unit Chaplain. Helping you, with this, is what they get paid to do.