Benefits to being married in military?

[justhayley]

Hiya just out of curiosity really.
I'm wondering what benefits military wives as opposed to girlfriends get?

I keep being told me and DP should get married because of the spouse benefits but I have no idea what try are. (we have a DS if that makes a difference).

Thanks x

I want to marry him regardless just wondering what if anything would change?

You can move into Forces housing, and will definitely be included in their welfare/social provision as of right (rather than negotiating inclusion).

He'll get higher allowances in some posts, and separation allowance if posted away from you where you cannot accompany him.

Apart from separation allowance when he is away you and your DS will be get widow/death benefits if the dreadful should happen. Sorry know that sounds awful to say but it was a reason why DH and I got married earlier than planned as he was off to a nasty place and he didn't want me to be left with our mortgage if something happened to him

Thank you.
Is separation allowance when they are on tour or overseas for exercise, or long term postings?

This is all quite new to me

Separation allowance kicks in after a certain amount of days apart in any one year (I can't remember offhand the number) due to courses/exercises/op tours etc.

As for "benefits" to being married, the biggest nbe is that the Forces tecognise your relationship as a matter of course rather than as a courtesy. Access to welfare and advice is easier to obtain, should you need it and even if you live off-patch you can be included as much or as little as you want.

Few, if any, camps now have medical access and there is no dental provision unless you're overseas.

Obviously there is the housing and the social life and friendship that comes with being on a patch. I know it's a few years away, but Continuity of Education Allowance will help towards boarding school fees when the time comes.

There are few financial benefits but the main thing to consider is that marriage will make you more secure in the event of death/serious injury.