Finance at Barksdale AFB

The Finance Office at Barksdale Air Force Base plays a critical role in ensuring the financial well-being of service members, civilian employees, and retirees. It’s a multi-faceted operation providing a wide array of financial services and support.

Key Services

Military Pay: One of the primary functions is managing military pay for active duty personnel. This includes processing pay entitlements, allowances (such as Basic Allowance for Housing – BAH, and Basic Allowance for Subsistence – BAS), and deductions. Finance specialists ensure timely and accurate payment, addressing issues like pay discrepancies, leave tracking, and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions.

Travel Pay: Barksdale’s Finance Office handles travel pay for both official travel and Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. They assist personnel in understanding travel entitlements, submitting claims, and receiving reimbursements for authorized expenses. This often involves navigating complex regulations and ensuring compliance with Joint Travel Regulations (JTR).

Civilian Pay: The office also manages payroll for civilian employees working at the base. This includes processing paychecks, managing deductions for taxes and benefits, and ensuring compliance with federal employment regulations.

Financial Counseling and Education: Recognizing the importance of financial literacy, the Finance Office often provides financial counseling and educational resources to service members and their families. These programs can cover topics like budgeting, debt management, saving, investing, and retirement planning. They may offer one-on-one counseling sessions or group workshops to promote financial responsibility and preparedness.

Debt Management: Finance personnel can assist service members struggling with debt by providing guidance on creating repayment plans, negotiating with creditors, and understanding credit reports. They can also connect individuals with resources like the Air Force Aid Society, which offers financial assistance in emergency situations.

Importance to Mission Readiness

The Finance Office’s contributions extend beyond individual financial well-being; they are vital to mission readiness. By ensuring service members are paid accurately and on time, and by providing financial counseling and support, the office helps to reduce financial stress and improve morale. A financially secure and knowledgeable workforce is better equipped to focus on their duties and contribute to the Air Force’s mission.

Navigating the Finance Office

Accessing the Finance Office at Barksdale AFB typically involves scheduling appointments or utilizing walk-in hours. Service members and employees are encouraged to utilize online resources and contact the office with any questions or concerns regarding their pay or financial matters. Clear communication and proactive engagement with the Finance Office are key to resolving issues and maximizing available resources.