AFAS Financial Assistance Updates

New Streamlined Application Process & Categories of Support

To better serve the Air and Space Force communities, AFAS is introducing a streamlined application process that consolidates all emergency financial assistance requests into a single application. This change helps eliminate confusion, reduce delays, and ensure consistent and equitable service delivery across all eligibility categories.

In addition, AFAS is expanding the list of categories it supports starting June 1, 2025 to better support the real-life challenges our military families face.

Application Process Changes

  • Falcon Assistance Integrated – This process has been fully integrated into the Standard Assistance process, providing a simplified, consistent way to apply for support.
  • No Loan Limit – Applicants may receive multiple interest-free loans if their financial need is justified and their personal budget supports repayment.

AFAS strongly encourages members to use AFAS interest-free loans as a first option before turning to high-interest or predatory lenders.

New Categories of Support
To better meet the evolving needs of our Air Force and Space Force families, AFAS has added new categories of financial support, including (but not limited to):

   
  • Adoption expenses
  • Furniture costs
  • Overseas car rental
  • Car Seat/Booster Seats
  • Home repair
  • Immigration expenses
  • Mental health support
  • Vehicle shipment costs for PCS moves

 

Eligibility

AFAS financial assistance is available to:

  • Active-duty Air Force and Space Force members
  • Guard and Reserve (regardless of duty status)
  • Retirees, surviving spouses, and eligible dependents
  • Spouses with a valid Power of Attorney (POA) and dependents enrolled in DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System)

Application Process

  • To apply:
    1. Click “Request Assistance” at the top of the page
    2. Register for an account (first-time users) or Sign in (existing users)
    3. Complete the online application

Important note: All applications require supporting documents, and a budget worksheet may also be required depending on the type of request.

  • Repayment Terms – Repayment plans vary but typically range up to 24 months, based on the applicant’s service timeline and ability to repay.
    • Active Duty: Repayments via allotment
    • Traditional Guard/Reserve: Repayments via ACH withdrawal
    • Retired: Repayment via allotment

AFAS is committed to providing timely responses and ensuring emergency needs are met swiftly and compassionately.

More Than Emergency Help

AFAS also offers additional programs designed to support financial well-being:

  • Financial Education and Budgeting Tools
  • Educational Scholarships
  • Disaster Relief Assistance
  • Childcare Assistance through our Childcare for PCS and Give Parents a Break Programs

These programs are designed to reduce stress, strengthen families, and support mission readiness.

Don’t See a Program That Fits Your Situation?

If there is a financial need not listed above, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We may be able to assist or connect you with trusted resources that can.