DoD Instruction 1322.34, "Financial Readiness of Service Members," November 5, 2021

DOD INSTRUCTION 1322.34

INANCIAL READINESS OF SERVICE MEMBERS

Originating Component: Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness

Effective:

Releasability:

November 5, 2021

Cleared for public release. Available on the Directives Division Website

at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Incorporates and Cancels: Directive Type Memorandum 19-009, “Financial Readiness Common

Military Training Requirements,” August 13, 2019, as amended

Approved by: Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr., Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and

Readiness

Purpose: In accordance with the authority in DoD Directive 5124.02, this issuance establishes policy,

assigns responsibilities, and prescribes procedures and requirements for efforts to promote and sustain

the personal financial readiness of Service members.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION ............................................................................. 4

1.1. Applicability. ................................................................................................................... 4

1.2. Policy. .............................................................................................................................. 4

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................................................................................ 6

2.1. Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (USD(P&R)). ....................... 6

2.2. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness (ASD(R)). ............................................... 6

2.3. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. .............................. 7

2.4. Executive Director for Force Resiliency. ......................................................................... 7

2.5. Director, DoDHRA. ......................................................................................................... 8

2.6. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs. .......................................................... 8

2.7. Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, Department of

Defense. ............................................................................................................................. 8

2.8. Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. .............................................. 8

2.9. Secretaries of the Military Departments. ......................................................................... 8

2.10. Secretaries of the Army and Air Force. ....................................................................... 10

2.11. Chief, National Guard Bureau. .................................................................................... 10

SECTION 3: FINANCIAL LITERACY EDUCATION AND TRAINING .................................................... 11

3.1. CMT. .............................................................................................................................. 11

a. Frequency. ................................................................................................................... 11

b. Delivery....................................................................................................................... 11

c. Target Audience. ......................................................................................................... 12

d. Standardized Training. ................................................................................................ 12

e. Training Materials. ...................................................................................................... 13

f. Compliance. ................................................................................................................. 13

g. Completion and Evaluation......................................................................................... 13

3.2. Training Provided By Other Federal Departments and Agencies. ................................ 13

3.3. Training Provided By NFEs........................................................................................... 14

a. State and Local Government Entities. ......................................................................... 14

b. Financial Institutions Operating on DoD Installations. .............................................. 14

c. Non-Profit Organizations. ........................................................................................... 14

3.4. Financial Education in Religious Activities. ................................................................. 15

APPENDIX 3A: FINANCIAL READINESS CMT TLOS ..................................................................... 17

SECTION 4: FINANCIAL COUNSELING ........................................................................................... 20

4.1. Financial Counseling. .................................................................................................... 20

4.2. Installation Financial Counseling. ................................................................................. 20

a. Requirements............................................................................................................... 20

b. Qualifications. ............................................................................................................. 20

4.3. Unit Financial Counseling. ............................................................................................ 21

4.4. Availability. ................................................................................................................... 21

4.5. Service Integration. ........................................................................................................ 22

4.6. Support with Consumer Rights and Remedies. ............................................................. 22

4.7. Counseling on Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance. ............................................... 22

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS 3

GLOSSARY .................................................................................................................................... 23

G.1. Acronyms. ..................................................................................................................... 23

G.2. Definitions. .................................................................................................................... 23

REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................. 27

TABLES

Table 1. Financial Readiness CMT TLOs .................................................................................. 17

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION 4

SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION

1.1. APPLICABILITY.

This issuance applies to OSD, the Military Departments, the Office of the Chairman of the Joint

Chiefs of Staff and the Joint Staff, the Combatant Commands, the Office of Inspector General of

the Department of Defense, the Defense Agencies, the DoD Field Activities, and all other

organizational entities within the DoD (referred to collectively in this issuance as the “DoD

Components”).

1.2. POLICY.

a. Service members are responsible for maintaining their financial readiness and, in

accordance with DoD Instruction (DoDI) 1344.09, are expected to pay their just financial

obligations in a proper and timely manner.

b. The Military Departments will provide programs and resources addressing the financial

decisions facing Service members, and the effects such decisions can have on their personal and

professional lives. Such programs and resources will be designed to assist Service members and

their families, as appropriate, in developing skills to maintain their financial readiness, regardless

of the type of, or location of, their duty assignment. In accordance with Section 992 of Title 10,

United States Code (U.S.C.), and this issuance, financial readiness programs and resources will

include the following:

(1) Financial literacy education, which provides a functional baseline of common

knowledge, skills, and behavior standards for all Service members and includes financial

readiness common military training (CMT).

(2) Financial counseling, which provides one-on-one assistance in evaluating diverse

financial circumstances, setting and meeting financial goals, and developing the skills and

strategies necessary to meet financial obligations and maintain financial readiness.

c. Programs and resources intended to support the financial readiness of Service members

and their families must adhere to the principle of providing factual, unbiased information that

empowers them to make independent and informed financial decisions.

d. Unit and command leaders are responsible for the financial readiness of Service members

assigned to their units and commands, and will:

(1) Take an active role in promoting the financial readiness of Service members by

encouraging financial responsibility and sound financial planning and promoting a culture that

recognizes the impact of financial decisions on personal and professional lives.

(2) Promote financial readiness as an integral part of personal, family, and mission

readiness and assign personnel to support these efforts within a military unit, as appropriate, in

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION 5

accordance with Paragraph 4.3. of this issuance, and guidance from the Secretary of the Military

Department concerned.

(3) Encourage Service members to seek assistance from available professional support

resources before making a significant financial commitment.

(4) Direct Service members to financial counseling when they become aware of

members’ financial difficulties or indebtedness.

(5) Oversee completion of financial readiness CMT requirements for Service members

under their command, in accordance with this issuance.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 6

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1. UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR PERSONNEL AND READINESS

(USD(P&R)).

The USD(P&R):

a. Establishes policy and provides direction and oversight related to financial readiness

within DoD and monitors compliance with this issuance.

b. Submits the annual report to Congress on financial literacy and preparedness required by

Section 992(d) of Title 10, U.S.C.

c. Advises the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer,

Department of Defense, on matters concerning the operation of financial institutions on DoD

installations, including financial literacy education, financial counseling, consumer protections,

and any other matters that affect the morale and welfare of DoD personnel, in accordance with

DoDI 1000.11.

2.2. ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR READINESS (ASD(R)).

Under the authority, direction, and control of the USD(P&R), the ASD(R):

a. Develops and monitors the implementation of policy, procedures, and information

requirements related to DoD efforts to promote and sustain the financial readiness of Service

members and their families.

b. Advises the USD(P&R) on matters related to financial readiness, including matters

impacting Service member readiness, retention, and resiliency.

c. Serves as the CMT lead proponent for financial readiness, pursuant to DoDI 1322.31, by:

(1) Establishing minimum terminal learning objectives (TLOs) for financial readiness

CMT through the entirety of the military lifecycle.

(2) Regularly reviewing TLOs to address changes in training needs.

d. Develops and distributes appropriate standardized training content and other educational

products as necessary, in coordination with the Secretaries of the Military Departments.

e. Coordinates with the Director, Department of Defense Human Resources Activity

(DoDHRA) and the Secretaries of the Military Departments, to conduct a survey of the financial

literacy and preparedness of members of the Armed Forces within the annual status of forces

surveys, in accordance with Section 992(d) of Title 10, U.S.C.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 7

f. Coordinates, as appropriate, with the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and

Reserve Affairs, the Executive Director for Force Resiliency, and the Director, DoDHRA, to

integrate financial readiness programs, resources, and information into programs under their

purview, including those identified in Paragraphs 2.3., 2.4., and 2.5. of this issuance.

2.3. ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR MANPOWER AND RESERVE

AFFAIRS.

Under the authority, direction, and control of the USD(P&R), the Assistant Secretary of Defense

for Manpower and Reserve Affairs:

a. Coordinates with the ASD(R) to integrate financial readiness programs, resources, and

information with Military OneSource; Military Family Readiness System programs, resources,

and information; and, other services provided by military and family support centers. Programs

must be available to Service members, spouses, and families, as appropriate, in accordance with

DoDI 1342.22.

b. Coordinates with the ASD(R) to integrate financial readiness programs, resources, and

information with the Transition Assistance Program pursuant to procedures in DoDI 1332.35, the

Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program pursuant to procedures in DoDI 1342.28, and other

applicable programs, and direct relevant curriculum in these programs includes the appropriate

TLOs established by the ASD(R).

c. Coordinates with the ASD(R) to establish policies concerning personal commercial

solicitation, in accordance with DoDI 1344.07, that are consistent with efforts to promote and

maintain the financial readiness of Service members and their families.

d. Coordinates with the ASD(R) to establish policies concerning commercial sponsorship of

morale, welfare, and recreation programs, in accordance with DoDI 1015.10, that are consistent

with efforts to promote and maintain the financial readiness of Service members and their

families.

e. Coordinates with the ASD(R) in providing accredited financial counseling services via

Military OneSource, and in the development of the policies, materials, and information needed to

support the effective delivery of financial counseling by Military OneSource financial

counselors, in accordance with Section 4.

f. Provides information and updates on military compensation, entitlements, benefits, and

other applicable information to the ASD(R), as necessary, to support financial readiness

programs.

2.4. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR FORCE RESILIENCY.

Under the authority, direction, and control of the USD(P&R), the Executive Director for Force

Resiliency, coordinates with the ASD(R) on policies and programs addressing the impact of

financial readiness on Service member resiliency.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 8

2.5. DIRECTOR, DODHRA.

Under the authority, direction, and control of the USD(P&R), the Director, DoDHRA,

coordinates with the ASD(R) to:

a. Conduct a survey of the financial literacy and preparedness of members of the Armed

Forces within the annual status of forces surveys, pursuant to Section 992(d) of Title 10, U.S.C.

b. Integrate financial readiness policies, programs, resources, and information into the

Transition Assistance Program and Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, as appropriate, and

direct that relevant curriculum in these programs includes the appropriate TLOs as established by

this issuance and in accordance with DoDI 1322.31.

2.6. ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR HEALTH AFFAIRS.

Under the authority, direction, and control of the USD(P&R), the Assistant Secretary of Defense

for Health Affairs provides information and updates on TRICARE, as appropriate, to the

ASD(R) in support of financial readiness programs.

2.7. UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (COMPTROLLER)/CHIEF FINANCIAL

OFFICER, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.

The Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, Department of Defense:

a. Provides policy and exercises oversight on the establishment, operation, and termination

of lease agreements with financial institutions operating on DoD installations pursuant to

DoDI 1000.11.

b. Coordinates with the USD(P&R) on matters concerning the operation of financial

institutions on DoD installations, including financial literacy education, financial counseling,

consumer protections, and any other matters that affect the morale and welfare of DoD

personnel, in accordance with DoDI 1000.11.

2.8. UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR INTELLIGENCE AND SECURITY.

The Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security provides, as necessary, information

and updates on security clearance adjudication guidelines related to financial considerations, and

the impact of financial considerations on eligibility and access determinations, to the USD(P&R)

in support of financial readiness programs.

2.9. SECRETARIES OF THE MILITARY DEPARTMENTS.

The Secretaries of the Military Departments:

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 9

a. Oversee compliance with the policies and requirements in this issuance within their

respective Military Services, and issue policies and guidance, as appropriate, implementing this

issuance.

b. Provide financial literacy education and training in accordance with Section 992 of Title

10, U.S.C., DoDI 1322.31, and Section 3 of this issuance.

c. Identify or develop systems and methods to track completion of financial readiness CMT

and delegate responsibility for oversight of training completion as appropriate.

d. Develop plans to deliver financial readiness CMT requirements identified in this issuance

in accordance with DoDI 1322.31. Such plans must be submitted annually to the ASD(R) no

later than August 1

and, for each training point identified in Appendix 3A of this issuance, must

provide the following information for the upcoming fiscal year:

(1) Organizations(s) responsible for delivery.

(2) Point of delivery.

(3) Delivery method.

(4) TLOs.

(5) Schedule when training updates will be available.

(6) Outline of training materials.

(7) Training assessment and program evaluation plans with a description of how the

results of such assessments and evaluations will be used for adjusting training content and

procedures.

(8) Description and results of completion tracking and reporting procedures.

(9) Additional information requested by the ASD(R) consistent with the requirements in

this issuance.

e. Develop procedures to regularly assess the educational needs of Service members, and

develop content and resources to address unique needs, such as those for particular populations

or locations, that are not already addressed by financial readiness CMT.

f. Provide financial counseling to Service members and spouses in accordance with

Section 992 of Title 10, U.S.C. and Section 4 of this issuance and provide the number of

personnel employed or contracted to provide such services no later than August 1

annually,

subject to guidance issued by the ASD(R).

g. Approve, at their discretion, qualified non-DoD entities to provide financial education and

training in accordance with Paragraphs 3.2 and 3.3 of this issuance; monitor and track the

conduct of such events; direct installation commanders to fulfill their responsibilities related to

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 10

financial education provided by such organizations; and monitor compliance with all relevant

policies and requirements.

h. Use the survey of the financial literacy and preparedness of members of the Armed Forces

conducted within the annual status of forces surveys in accordance with Section 992(d) of

Title 10, U.S.C., as an overall measure to monitor financial readiness, evaluate financial

readiness efforts and identify training needs.

i. Identify, as appropriate, additional data sources to assess the financial readiness of Service

members and the impact of financial issues on readiness, resiliency, and retention, and to identify

and address necessary training needs.

2.10. SECRETARIES OF THE ARMY AND AIR FORCE.

In addition to the responsibilities in Paragraph 2.9. of this issuance, the Secretaries of the Army

and Air Force coordinate with the Chief, National Guard Bureau, as necessary, to:

a. Oversee compliance with the policies and requirements in this issuance for members of

the National Guard.

b. Provide the necessary resources to comply with the policies and requirements of this

issuance for members of the National Guard.

2.11. CHIEF, NATIONAL GUARD BUREAU.

The Chief, National Guard Bureau:

a. Directs that appropriate financial readiness programs, resources, and information are

available for members of the National Guard and their families, through State family programs.

b. Coordinates with the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force to obtain necessary resources

to comply with the policies and requirements of this issuance for members of the National

Guard.

c. Coordinates with the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force to oversee compliance with

the policies and requirements in this issuance for members of the National Guard, and to issue

policies and guidance, as appropriate, to support the requirements in this issuance.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 3: FINANCIAL LITERACY EDUCATION AND TRAINING 11

SECTION 3: FINANCIAL LITERACY EDUCATION AND TRAINING

3.1. CMT.

The Secretaries of the Military Departments will provide financial readiness CMT, in accordance

with the personal and professional training points across the military lifecycle outlined in

Section 992(a) of Title 10, U.S.C. Table 1 of Appendix 3A of this issuance establishes standard

minimum CMT TLOs required at each training point, consistent with DoDI 1322.31. The

Secretaries of the Military Departments may, as appropriate, assign the assessment, planning,

conduct, and evaluation of CMT requirements to appropriate organizations under their purview,

as long as learning outcomes are consistent for all Service members under their respective

Military Services.

a. Frequency.

(1) Training must be provided:

(a) When a Service member reaches a personal or professional training point; or

(b) On an annual basis when several training points are likely to occur 6 months

before or after the time of delivery. Training conducted on an annual basis must include TLOs

for all training points the member has reached since the previous training, as well as those

anticipated to be reached within 6 months after the time of delivery.

(2) TLOs associated with the following training points may not be combined or provided

on an annual basis as described in Paragraph 3.1.a(1)(b) of this issuance and must be provided

during:

(a) Initial entry training.

(b) Leadership training.

(d) Transition.

(3) The Secretaries of the Military Departments may deliver any TLOs required to be

provided at the Service member’s first duty station in Appendix 3A of this issuance during a

Service member’s initial entry training. In such cases, TLOs delivered during initial entry

training will fulfill the corresponding requirement for the first duty station.

b. Delivery.

(1) Point of Delivery.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 3: FINANCIAL LITERACY EDUCATION AND TRAINING 12

Determining the appropriate point of delivery for required training is at the discretion of

the Secretaries of Military Departments, and may include institutional training, professional

military education, unit training, or standalone training.

(2) Delivery Method.

Training delivery methods may include, but are not limited to, instructor-led training,

computer-based training, structured self-development training, and one-on-one financial

counseling, provided the learning outcomes are the same regardless of method.

(a) If training is delivered as in-person classroom training, instructors must be

adequately trained in accordance with Military Department policy and familiar with the content

to be delivered. Training pertaining to a Service member’s rights and remedies under the law

must be delivered by qualified legal counsel subject to the authority of the General Counsel or

Judge Advocate General of the Military Department concerned, or the Staff Judge Advocate to

the Commandant of the Marine Corps, or, at a minimum, the materials to be delivered must be

reviewed and approved by such qualified legal counsel.

(b) If training is delivered through one-on-one financial counseling, counselors must

be qualified in accordance with Section 4 of this issuance and possess the knowledge and skills

necessary to address the particular subject matter identified in Appendix 3A of this issuance for

which they will be responsible.

attribution to any NFE in accordance with Paragraph 3.3 of this issuance. The Secretaries of the

Military Departments must direct that such training is consistent with training requirements and

provides comparable TLOs regardless of delivery method.

c. Target Audience.

The target audience for each training point is the population that experienced, or anticipates

experiencing, the event associated with the training point (e.g., new Service members during

initial entry training; Service members when vesting in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)).

d. Standardized Training.

The following standardized training topics must be included with training delivered by the

Military Departments at the training points identified. With the exception of training specified in

Paragraph 3.1.d(4) of this issuance, the Military Departments may tailor training to fit within

their preferred training delivery methods and to meet the needs of their audience, given that the

TLOs from the standardized training as well as those identified in Appendix 3A of this issuance

are achieved. The Military Departments will:

(1) Deliver “The Uniformed Services Blended Retirement System: Your Retirement

System” training no later than 365 days after the Pay Entry Base Date for all new members of the

uniformed Services.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 3: FINANCIAL LITERACY EDUCATION AND TRAINING 13

(2) Develop and deliver training on continuation pay developed in accordance with the

“Blended Retirement System Training for Continuation Pay Provision Training Development

Guide.”

(3) Provide the “Blended Retirement System Lump Sum Payment Course” to Service

members who are eligible and intend to elect a lump sum of retired pay pursuant to Section 1415

of Title 10, U.S.C.

(4) Deliver the “Financial Planning for Transition” training as part of the Transition

Assistance Program pursuant to procedures in DoDI 1332.35.

e. Training Materials.

(1) Training materials may include, but are not limited to, lesson plans, training guides,

presentation slides, infographics, and pamphlets.

(2) Training materials may include those developed and released within DoD, or

developed and approved in accordance with Paragraphs 3.2 or 3.3 of this issuance.

f. Compliance.

(1) Compliance with financial readiness CMT requirements does not require direct

replication of each TLO, as long as training is designed to produce knowledge outcomes

consistent with the required TLOs appropriate to the specific training points.

(2) Test-out modules may be used to determine knowledge of each TLO required at

permanent change of station, promotion, and major life event training points in Appendix 3A.

g. Completion and Evaluation.

The Military Departments will develop procedures to:

(1) Track completion of financial readiness CMT by Service members.

(2) Evaluate the effectiveness of training; recommendations for modifications to required

CMT TLOs must be made to the ASD(R).

3.2. TRAINING PROVIDED BY OTHER FEDERAL DEPARTMENTS AND

AGENCIES.

The Secretary of the Military Department concerned, at their discretion, may use training, to

include training materials, provided by a Federal department or agency not part of DoD to

address the general financial literacy education needs of the Military Department concerned. If

such training is intended to satisfy a specific financial readiness CMT requirement in this

issuance, it must be verified to fulfill the TLOs in Appendix 3A of this issuance consistent with

the Military Department’s overall training program and approved for usage.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 3: FINANCIAL LITERACY EDUCATION AND TRAINING 14

3.3. TRAINING PROVIDED BY NFES.

NFEs described in and satisfying the requirements identified in Paragraph 3.3. of this issuance

may be allowed to provide financial literacy education or training on DoD installations or

provide financial literacy materials for use by DoD personnel. Such entities must adhere to all

applicable requirements, including those established in DoDI 1344.07, DoDI 1000.15, and the

requirements established in Paragraph 3.3 of this issuance. The Secretaries of the Military

Departments concerned may approve the use of such training to satisfy a specific financial

readiness CMT requirement in this issuance if such training is verified to fulfill the TLOs in

Appendix 3A of this issuance consistent with the Military Department’s overall training

program.

a. State and Local Government Entities.

State and local government entities, including public universities, may provide financial

literacy education and training required by this issuance, or provide financial literacy materials

for use by DoD personnel, especially where State or local laws provide specific consumer rights

and remedies to Service members and dependents.

b. Financial Institutions Operating on DoD Installations.

Financial institutions operating on DoD installations pursuant to DoDI 1000.11, may provide

financial literacy and training in accordance with Parts 230 and 231 of Title 32, Code of Federal

Regulations.

c. Non-Profit Organizations.

(1) Military Department Responsibilities.

(a) The Secretaries of the Military Departments may approve, in writing, an

appropriate non-profit organization that is tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or (c)(23) of

Title 26, U.S.C., or that is associated with a securities self-regulatory organization, to provide

financial literacy education or training to Service members in their respective Military Services,

or provide learning materials for use by DoD personnel. This authority may be delegated, in

writing, to a Presidentially-appointed, Senate-confirmed official of the Military Department

concerned; further delegation is not authorized.

(b) Approvals must indicate that permission to provide financial literacy training or

education on a specific DoD installation is at the sole invitation of the installation commander, in

accordance with DoDI 1344.07 and Part 50 of Title 32, Code of Federal Regulations.

Code of Federal Regulations, relevant Military Department policy, and other invitation

requirements identified by the Military Department concerned. Copies of such approvals must

be provided to the ASD(R) when they are issued and transmitted.

(d) Approvals must be limited to providing training developed by the DoD, training

verified by the Military Department concerned to meet a specific financial readiness CMT

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 3: FINANCIAL LITERACY EDUCATION AND TRAINING 15

requirement described in this issuance, or another specific training need identified by the

Military Department concerned. The Military Department must verify that any training and

associated materials provide factual, unbiased information, do not contain any branding or

attribution to any NFE, do not promote or appear to promote any particular commercial product

or service, and are compliant with all applicable policies.

(e) Consistent with Paragraph 3.3.c(2)(f) of this issuance, to avoid the appearance of

favoritism, establish policy to ensure that successive invitations are not issued to a single NFE or

a small group of NFEs if there are multiple NFEs with similar qualifications and availability that

meet the criteria in this issuance.

(2) Installation Commander Responsibilities.

Pursuant to DoDI 1344.07 and Part 50 of Title 32, Code of Federal Regulations,

invitations to provide financial literacy education or training on a specific DoD installation are at

the sole discretion of the installation commander, subject to the installation’s need and to the

overall approval of an appropriate official in accordance with Paragraph 3.3.c(1) of this issuance.

The installation commander must:

(a) Invite only NFEs described and satisfying the requirements identified in

Paragraph 3.3 of this issuance to provide approved financial literacy education or training on

DoD installations based on need.

(b) Designate appropriate DoD personnel familiar with the requirements in this

issuance and Military Department policy to verify compliance with Paragraph 3.3.c(1) of this

issuance, Military Department policy, and any other applicable policy, and monitor delivery.

events conducted by non-DoD entities to the Secretary of the Military Department for further

reporting to the ASD(R).

(d) Prohibit commercial entities or commercial agents from delivering financial

literacy education or training, including on behalf of an approved NFE, pursuant to

DoDI 1344.07.

(e) If the NFE is an educational institution described in Paragraph 3.3.a of this

issuance, direct the installation education advisor to verify compliance with DoDI 1322.25.

(f) Avoid the appearance of favoritism by taking care not to issue invitations to a

single approved NFE or a small group of approved NFEs if there are multiple approved NFEs

with similar qualifications and availability.

3.4. FINANCIAL EDUCATION IN RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES.

Military chaplains may provide financial education as part of their religious ministries. Such

materials may not be used to meet a requirement in this issuance, and are otherwise exempt from

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 3: FINANCIAL LITERACY EDUCATION AND TRAINING 16

the requirements for approval identified in this issuance, provided the following conditions are

met:

a. The primary purpose of such training is the spiritual development of congregants and not

the financial education of Service members in general, as determined by the chaplain concerned

in coordination with the installation commander.

b. Chaplains consult with the installation financial readiness program to verify materials do

not conflict with training requirements and policies in this issuance and are consistent with the

policies in DoDI 1344.07.

c. Materials do not expressly or implicitly endorse products or services of any non-

government entity, nor further advertise products or services for purchase.

d. Participation is not directed and only on a voluntarily basis, with attendance as part of

religious ministry and not advertised beyond chapel congregants or delivered outside of the

context of religious ministry (e.g., in public installation locations such as the base exchange as a

standalone event).

e. Participants are notified of the availability of financial counseling and training

opportunities provided by the Military Departments.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

APPENDIX 3A: FINANCIAL READINESS CMT TLOS 17

APPENDIX 3A: FINANCIAL READINESS CMT TLOS

This appendix establishes standard minimum CMT TLOs required at each training point. Unless otherwise directed by Military

Department implementing guidance, leaders at all levels may use these TLOs to meet financial readiness CMT requirements and

determine how best to achieve these requirements, and will use their individual and collective training assessments to identify subject

matter gaps consistent with DoDI 1322.31.

Table 1. Financial Readiness CMT TLOs

Initial Entry

Training

First Duty Station

Permanent Change

of Station

Promotion

Vesting in TSP

Entitlement to

Continuation Pay

Major Life Events

Leadership

Training

Pre- and Post-

Deployment

Transition

Basic Finance

Recognize the importance of personal financial

management and what resources are available.

Identify warning signs of Service members at risk for

financial problems.

Understand the fundamentals of banking services and

fees.

Understand the fundamentals of creating and

managing a spending plan, and the importance of

updating a spending plan.

Understand the fundamentals and management of

debt and credit.

Understand fundamentals of income tax and common

tax benefits, and potential changes to tax situation.

X X

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

APPENDIX 3A: FINANCIAL READINESS CMT TLOS 18

Table 1. Financial Readiness CMT TLOs, Continued.

Initial Entry

Training

First Duty Station

Permanent Change

of Station

Promotion

Vesting in TSP

Entitlement to

Continuation Pay

Major Life Events

Leadership

Training

Pre- and Post-

Deployment

Transition

Consumer Protections

Know military consumer protection law

fundamentals, including Service members’ Civil

Relief Act and Military Lending Act.

X X X X X

Recognize and understand how to protect yourself

from misleading consumer practices and report

complaints.

X X X

Understand how to access credit protection benefits

available to Service members.

X X

Recognize and identify steps to resolve identity theft. X X

Planning

for the

Future

Comprehend the components of Service member’s

military retirement system and the importance of

preparing for retirement.

X X X X X X

Discuss the reasons, needs, types, and options for

purchasing insurance.

X X X X

Understand purpose and implications of estate

planning (e.g., beneficiaries, wills, trusts, power of

attorney).

X X X X

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

APPENDIX 3A: FINANCIAL READINESS CMT TLOS 19

Table 1. Financial Readiness CMT TLOs, Continued.

Initial Entry

Training

First Duty Station

Permanent Change

of Station

Promotion

Vesting in TSP

Entitlement to

Continuation Pay

Major Life Events

Leadership

Training

Pre- and Post-

Deployment

Transition

Compensation, Benefits,

and Entitlements

Know the components of basic pay and allowances

throughout one’s military career.

Examine the impact of special pay and entitlements. X X X

Discuss TRICARE options and costs. X X X X

Discuss survivor and dependent benefits, including

Survivor Benefit Plan and Service members’ Group

Life Insurance.

X X X

Understand future financial benefits afforded by the

Department’s career investment programs.

X X X

Saving and

Investing

Understand interest and how the concept of

compounding works.

Recognize the importance of and be able to develop

savings and an emergency fund.

X X X X X

Describe the fundamentals of investing.

Understand and be able to manage a TSP account.

Major Purchases

Analyze the implications and identify strategies for

financing a major purchase.

X X

Analyze financial implications and identify strategies

for buying a car.

Understand education financing, to include available

benefits, obligations, and repayment options.

X X

Notes: For definitions, see Section G.2.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 5: FINANCIAL COUNSELING 20

SECTION 4: FINANCIAL COUNSELING

4.1. FINANCIAL COUNSELING.

a. The Secretaries of the Military Departments must provide lifecycle financial counseling

upon request to Service members and spouses through personnel qualified to provide factual,

unbiased information and assist them in the development of skills and strategies to meet financial

goals and achieve and maintain financial readiness.

b. Financial counseling must be available regardless of component, type, or location of

assignment.

c. The Secretaries of the Military Departments must comply with program certification

standards in DoDI 1342.22 for financial counseling provided in military and family support

centers.

4.2. INSTALLATION FINANCIAL COUNSELING.

a. Requirements.

The Secretaries of the Military Departments must provide financial counseling, in accordance

with Section 992 of Title 10, U.S.C.:

(1) In the case of an installation with at least 2,000 assigned members on active duty,

financial counseling must be provided through at least one qualified full-time financial

counselor.

(2) In the case of an installation with fewer than 2,000 assigned members on active duty,

financial counseling must be provided from among the following:

(a) A qualified full-time financial counselor;

(b) A civilian of an appropriate grade and job series, or Service member in paygrade

E-7 or above, assigned in writing to provide financial counseling as a part of their duties;

(d) Through formal agreements with government entities or non-profit organizations

that are tax-exempt under Sections 501(c)(3) and (c)(23) of Title 26, U.S.C, subject to the

guidelines in Paragraphs 3.2 and 3.3 of this issuance.

b. Qualifications.

(1) Except as described in Paragraph 4.2.b(2) of this issuance, individuals described in

Paragraph 4.2.a of this issuance must meet the following qualifications, in addition to any further

guidance issued by the Secretary of the Military Department concerned:

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 5: FINANCIAL COUNSELING 21

(a) Possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university or a combination of

education and experience which equips the individual to serve as a financial counselor.

(b) Obtain and maintain a relevant nationally-recognized professional certification

that prepares the individual to provide factual, unbiased financial education and counseling,

pursuant to implementing guidance issued by the Secretary of the Military Department

concerned.

identified in Appendix 3A of this issuance.

(d) Be free of conflicts of interest regarding the subject matter for which they are

responsible.

(2) Any individual described in Paragraph 4.2.a(2)(b) of this issuance must meet the

following qualifications, in addition to any further guidance issued by the Secretary of the

Military Department concerned:

(a) Be free of conflicts of interest regarding the subject matter for which they are

responsible.

(b) Receive training to assess an individual’s financial counseling needs and provide

information and referral to additional resources for further assistance.

4.3. UNIT FINANCIAL COUNSELING.

The Secretaries of the Military Departments may establish policy authorizing commanders to

assign a Service member of a unit to provide financial counseling to members within that unit or

command as part of their assigned duties. Such policy must identify appropriate circumstances

for the use of unit financial counseling and require that Service members serving as unit financial

counselors, at a minimum, must:

a. Be in paygrade E-5 or above and assigned in writing.

b. Be free of conflicts of interest regarding the subject matter for which they are responsible.

c. Receive appropriate training provided by the Military Department concerned to assess an

individual’s financial counseling needs and provide information and referral to additional

resources for further assistance.

4.4. AVAILABILITY.

Financial counseling must be provided upon request to military family members and other

individuals entitled to access such services under law, regulation, or DoD policy.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

SECTION 5: FINANCIAL COUNSELING 22

4.5. SERVICE INTEGRATION.

The Secretaries of the Military Departments will, as appropriate and to the widest extent

practicable, integrate financial counseling and financial readiness information and resources into

other programs supporting Service members and their families.

4.6. SUPPORT WITH CONSUMER RIGHTS AND REMEDIES.

Providing information and referrals on consumer rights and remedies available under law and

policy is a critical component of financial counseling. Financial counselors described in

Paragraphs 4.2 and 4.3 of this issuance must:

a. Be familiar with relevant consumer rights and remedies, particularly unique protections

afforded military consumers in law or policy, such as the Military Lending Act (Section 987 of

Title 10, U.S.C. and Part 232 of Title 32, Code of Federal Regulations), Servicemembers Civil

Relief Act (Sections 3901 to 4043 of Title 50, U.S.C.), credit monitoring, and State or local

regulations.

b. Refer clients to the installation legal assistance office or appropriate regulatory agency for

further support when identifying a potential violation of consumer rights.

4.7. COUNSELING ON SERVICEMEMBERS’ GROUP LIFE INSURANCE.

Pursuant to Section 992(c) of Title 10, U.S.C., a Service member or family member requesting

financial counseling described in Section 4 regarding commercially-available life insurance must

also receive information on the availability, amount of coverage, and procedures for changing

coverage under the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

GLOSSARY 23

GLOSSARY

G.1. ACRONYMS.

CRONYM

EANING

ASD(R)

Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness

CMT

common military training

DoDHRA

Department of Defense Human Resources Activity

DoDI

DoD instruction

NFE

non-Federal entity

TLO

terminal learning objective

TSP

Thrift Savings Plan

U.S.C.

United States Code

USD(P&R)

Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness

G.2. DEFINITIONS.

These terms and their definitions are for the purpose of this issuance.

ERM

EFINITION

career investment programs

Policies, programs, and partnerships that support war-

fighting readiness and support Service members’ transition

to the civilian workforce following military service,

including, but not limited to, voluntary education, tuition

assistance, certification, licensure, apprenticeship, and

financial readiness.

computer-based training

Any course of instruction where the primary means of

delivery is a computer and may be delivered via software

or web-based.

continuation pay

A direct cash payment available to Service members

covered under the Blended Retirement System, payable

between completion of 8 and 12 years of service with a

commitment of a minimum of 3 additional years of service.

CMT

Non-occupational directed training that sustains readiness,

provides common knowledge, enhances awareness,

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

GLOSSARY 24

ERM

EFINITION

reinforces expected behavioral standards or obligations,

and establishes a functional baseline that improves the

effectiveness of the DoD and its constituent organizations.

DoD installation

Any Federally-owned, leased, or operated base,

reservation, post, camp, building, or other facility to which

DoD personnel are assigned for duty or participating in

voluntary services offered by the Federal Government,

including barracks, transient housing, and family quarters.

entitlement to continuation

pay

When a Service member covered by the Blended

Retirement System becomes eligible to receive

continuation pay in accordance with policy of the Military

Department.

financial literacy

The ability to use knowledge and skills to manage financial

resources and responsibilities.

The state in which successful management of personal

financial responsibilities supports a Service member’s

ability to perform their duties.

initial entry training

Training provided to Service members (including enlisted,

commissioned officers, and warrant officers), or any

individual in a pre-commissioning program of the Military

Department concerned, before arrival at the first permanent

duty station.

institutional training

A progressive course of training including initial entry

training, professional military education, and functional

training.

leadership training

At a minimum, among enlisted members, training for first-

time non-commissioned officers, first sergeants, and prior

to command assignments; for officers, during accession

and training for command assignments for paygrades O-1

to O-6.

lump sum

A cash payment of a portion of retirement pay made to

eligible individuals in accordance with Section 1415 of

Title 10, U.S.C.

major life event

At a minimum, marriage, divorce, birth of a first child, and

disabling sickness or condition.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

GLOSSARY 25

ERM

EFINITION

Pay Entry Base Date

The date that denotes when an individual’s service is

calculated for pay purposes.

permanent change of station

At a minimum, applies to Service members in paygrades

E-1 to E-4 and O-1 to O-3.

point of delivery

Event designated by the Military Department concerned

where training is delivered.

professional military education

The systematic instruction of professionals in subjects that

enhance their knowledge of the science and art of war.

promotion

At a minimum, applies to Service members in paygrades

E-1 to E-5 and O-1 to O-4.

securities self-regulatory

organization

An organization described in Section 78.c(a)(26) of Title

15, U.S.C.

structured self-development

Mandatory, planned, and goal-oriented learning that

reinforces and expands the depth and breadth of an

individual’s knowledge base.

test-out module

A mechanism that allows an individual to opt out of some

or all of a particular training program by successfully

completing a knowledge test or other assessment.

TLO

The performance required of the student to demonstrate

competency in the material being taught. A TLO describes

exactly what the student must be capable of performing

under the stated conditions to the prescribed standard on

lesson completion.

training materials

Materials used by instructors, facilitators, and participants

in a training environment.

training point

Personal and professional life events when financial

literacy training is to be provided to Service members in

accordance with Section 992 of Title 10, U.S.C.

transition

Separation from service, transition between Active and

Reserve Components, or retirement.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

GLOSSARY 26

ERM

EFINITION

unit training

All or part of a unit accomplishing training objectives in a

group setting.

vesting in TSP

When a Service member covered by the Blended

Retirement System accrues non-forfeitable rights to

contributions to their TSP account made by the Military

Department on the first day of the 25

month of service

following their Pay Entry Base Date.

DoDI 1322.34, November 5, 2021

REFERENCES 27

REFERENCES

Code of Federal Regulations, Title 32

DoD Directive 5124.02, “Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness

(USD(P&R)),” June 23, 2008

DoD Instruction 1000.11, “Financial Institutions on DoD Installations,” January 16, 2009, as

amended

DoD Instruction 1000.15, “Procedures and Support for Non-Federal Entities Authorized to

Operate on DoD Installations,” October 24, 2008

DoD Instruction 1015.10, “Military Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Programs,” July 6,

2009, as amended

DoD Instruction 1322.25, “Voluntary Education Programs,” March 15, 2011, as amended

DoD Instruction 1322.31, “Common Military Training (CMT),” February 20, 2020

DoD Instruction 1332.35, “Transition Assistance Program (TAP) for Military Personnel,”

September 26, 2019

DoD Instruction 1342.22, “Military Family Readiness,” August 5, 2021

DoD Instruction 1342.28, “DoD Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program (YRPP),” February 25,

2019

DoD Instruction 1344.07, “Personal Commercial Solicitation on DoD Installations,” March 30,

2006

DoD Instruction 1344.09, “Indebtedness of Military Personnel,” December 8, 2008

United States Code, Title 10

United States Code, Title 15, Section 78.c(a)(26)

United States Code, Title 26

United States Code, Title 50, Sections 3901-4043 (also known as the “Servicemembers’ Civil

Relief Act”)