How to Manage Military Spouse Unemployment

Your family just got Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, and now you’re facing a move. For many military spouses, that means making a decision about their career. If your upcoming relocation means leaving your current job behind, now’s the time to start planning your next professional chapter.

A PCS move isn’t about starting your career from scratch. It’s about taking everything you’ve learned and using it to find new opportunities. Here are some common employment challenges military spouses face and how to navigate them.

Common career challenges military spouses face

Military spouse unemployment due to PCS is common, especially for moves outside the contiguous United States (OCONUS). However, some challenges can arise when looking for work.

Starting a new job search

You’re in an unfamiliar job market without established professional connections. You may also not know local employers and opportunities.

Transferring professional licenses to your new state 

Your current credentials might not be valid in your new location. This requires paperwork, fees or additional requirements before you can work.

Rebuilding your professional network from the ground up

The workplace relationships you cultivated at your last duty station may not extend to your new area. This may mean you need to build new professional connections.

Explaining employment gaps from your recent move

Time off for PCS transitions and getting your family settled can create breaks in your employment history. You’ll also need to explain frequent moves to employers.

Finding employers who understand military schedules

You’ll likely be looking for roles that accommodate potential deployments and the unpredictable nature of military life.

Facing financial stress from the limited local job market options

Your new duty station might not have the same career options as your previous location. This may cause additional financial stress as you expand your search.

These challenges are real, but they’re becoming more manageable. Employers are recognizing what military spouses go through during transition. The result is better flexibility for professionals whose first duty is to support those serving. 

5 steps to navigate eligibility for unemployment during a PCS move

You’ve completed your PCS move, and now you’re ready for the next steps. The boxes are unpacked, the family is settled and you’re eager to get back to work. The question is, how do you navigate this period of unemployment?

The same skills that help you master PCS moves can help you during this period of transition.

Step #1: File for unemployment benefits

While planning your next steps during unemployment, don’t overlook resources designed for your situation. These programs can provide financial support, career guidance and general help during your job search:

• Military Family Life Counselor (MFLC) services offer private support for career changes and work-life balance issues. They can help you make career decisions during times of change.
• Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) provide scholarships, career coaching and professional development resources. This program offers up to $6,000 in financial assistance for licenses, certifications and continuing education.
• Military Child Care Act benefits can help with childcare costs while job searching. Some stations also offer childcare for spouses seeking employment or education opportunities.
• State unemployment benefits may be available. This depends on your previous employment and your new state’s (if applicable) requirements. Eligibility varies, so it’s worth checking whether you qualify during your job search.
• Installation career services at most bases offer resume reviews, interview coaching and job search help. Many also host job fairs and networking events with military-friendly employers.

Step #2: Research the job market

Start researching the job market in your new location as soon as you receive PCS orders. Identify potential employers and job openings that align with your skills and experience.

Look for roles that aren’t tied to one place. Fields like digital marketing, writing and education can work well with military life. Research which careers in your field offer remote options and look for jobs with demand in multiple locations.

This approach can help you keep career momentum no matter where you’re stationed. Instead of starting over with each move, you can build stronger expertise with time. Companies value employees who can work well from anywhere.

Step #3: Create a skills-based resume that travels

When updating your resume, focus on skills and achievements that work anywhere. Don’t rely on specific job titles or company names. Use numbers/percentages to show the impact of your roles. Highlight abilities like cross-cultural communication, crisis management and quick adaptation. Military life has taught you these skills.

When employers see transferable skills, they're less likely to care about where your previous job was located. A well-crafted resume can show what valuable skills you have.

Step #4: Explore military spouse networks and specialized job boards

Military spouse communities offer incredible career support. Join online groups for your profession. Take part in spouse clubs at your current base. Connect with groups like the Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP). These networks share job openings and offer insights about military-friendly employers. Many also offer resume reviews, job search assistance and career counseling.

Don’t underestimate recommendations from someone who understands your situation. Military spouses who have successfully changed careers can share insider knowledge. They know which companies truly support flexible work. They also know which job markets do well at different duty stations. These connections may lead to opportunities that are never posted publicly.

Strategy #5: Consider entrepreneurship and freelancing opportunities

Starting your own business or freelancing may give you more control over your career. Many military spouses have built successful careers no matter where they live. Consider what services you could offer remotely. These options could include graphic design, bookkeeping, virtual assistance or coaching.

Entrepreneurship may allow you to build a career that travels with you. It could also offer more of the flexibility that military life requires. You could work on growing your business during stable periods and adjust your workload during moves or deployments. The problem-solving skills you’ve developed as a military spouse can work nicely with running your own business.

Financial stability for Servicemembers and spouses

At Navy Federal Credit Union, we understand that career transitions are just one part of managing your family’s financial well-being during a PCS move. Whether you’re between jobs or starting fresh, we’re here to support you.

Our military life resources can help guide you through everything from establishing your finances after a PCS move to managing your budget on one income during career transitions. If you’re exploring new career paths, check out our guide to the best careers for military spouses.

From banking solutions to financial planning tools, we’re committed to supporting Active Duty Servicemembers and Veterans.