Insights
Markets Aren't Red or Blue: Investing in an Election Year
First Command's Investment Management Team investigates how much of an impact past election outcomes have had on the U.S. economy and financial markets.
Feb 29, 2024 | 3 min. read
CORONAVIRUS 2020 RELIEF PROGRAMS
WEATHERING THE COVID-19 FINANCIAL STORM
We’re all feeling a little overwhelmed these days with the harrowing “new normal” that has been forced on us by the coronavirus pandemic. So, in the hope that it will restore just a bit of order and sanity to your life, we plan to use this page to share helpful guidance and reassuring perspective on how we can all best weather the current storm together. The way we see it, it’s never been more important for us to fulfill our promise to serve as your personal financial coach for life.
A Message From Our CEO
One of the lessons we’ve learned from 62 years of helping clients plan for and pursue financial security is that, at times like these, it’s important for us to be at our best. Because it’s at times like these that clients need a knowledgeable financial coach and an understanding ally the most.
As we have all learned in recent weeks, there are some unique challenges associated with a global pandemic. Like the need for social distancing and, in some cases, the quick and unexpected loss of income. But we are prepared to help you overcome those challenges. Our Advisors are equipped with the latest video conferencing technology to ensure that we can stay in touch, and we have quickly rolled out a financial relief package to ensure that you have ready access to the funds you may need to weather this storm.
Though a global pandemic on this scale is a new experience for all of us, crises that present financial challenges are not. We supported and provided guidance to our clients through the government shutdowns in 2013 and 2018-2019, during the global financial crisis of 2007-2008, in the aftermath of 9/11, when the dot-com bubble burst in 2000 and in the wake of the 1987 market collapse. Just as we did on those occasions, we will get through the current crisis by working together to address any short-term challenges so that you can stay on track with your long-term plan.
Our Advisors are actively reaching out to clients to offer their help. Even if you have not yet connected with your Advisor, though, I encourage you to meet with him or her – virtually or otherwise – if you have questions, need help with a transaction or would like to review your plan or assess your portfolio. It’s important that you feel confident, informed and well positioned to deal with your current circumstances, as well as the volatility in the financial markets that is likely to continue in the weeks and months immediately ahead.
Finally, if you know someone else who is experiencing financial anxiety and could use our help during these challenging times, we are ready and willing to assist. So please don’t hesitate to share that information with your Advisor.
We appreciate the trust and confidence you have placed in First Command, and we are committed to being at our best for you at this important time.
Respectfully,
Mark Steffe, President/CEO
Mark was a recent guest on Army Wife Network, where he talked about opportunities for military families sheltering at home to strengthen their financial situation and feel more empowered in the pursuit of their goals. You can listen here.
First Command Bank
Financial Relief Program
COVID-19: First Command is here to help
In response to the financial challenges associated with the COVID-19 outbreak and the steps being taken to combat it, First Command is rolling out a special relief package to ensure that clients have ready access to the funds they will need to weather this storm.
Federal Program
The CARES Act
The CARES Act
The CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act was enacted to provide financial stability and relief for individuals and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many types of relief are offered in this bill.
John S. Weitzer, CIO
Financial Insights
Coaching Center
News & Information
Common Questions
Where are my tax document/statements?
For AMS/Brokerage, click “AMS/Brokerage.” You will now be in Command Center Select. Click “Communication” in the upper left-hand corner. The left side of the screen will contain all the statement options.
For DAF, click on the investments tab. Click “detailed view.” Click the ticker symbol hyperlink, which will link to the fund company website for registration or login.
How do I combine family accounts?
In Command Center, click “My Profile.” Select “Combine Family Accounts.” This will enable you to share your profile with your spouse.
What if I have a question about updating my bank or benefit information, or regarding registration changes or investments?
Your advisor can help answer those questions and others you may have. Please contact them for further assistance.
What if I'm not a First Command client?
No problem. Take just a moment to provide us with some basic information and we'll connect you with a First Command Financial Advisor in your area.
Is the bank lobby still open?
Yes. The bank is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CDT, Monday through Friday. We will continue to maintain the ATM machine, teller lines and notary services.
If I mail a check or paperwork to the bank will it still be processed?
Yes. We have staff on-site to handle these normal daily functions.
Will automatic bank loan payments be stopped during the skip payment period?
Yes, if we pull the payment, we will defer payments during that period.
If bill pay is setup, then you will have to manually stop the payment.
If I defer a payment, will it reflect on my credit report for either bank loan or Visa payments?
No. The maturity date on the loan will be extended the number of months that the payment was skipped – up to two months. It will not show past due on your credit report.
If a skip payment request for Visa is approved, does the interest still accrue?
Yes.
If the skip payment request for the bank loan is approved, does the interest still accrue?
Yes.
How many payment skips can I apply for?
Up to two payments at a time.
How long will it take to process my skip payment request?
One to two business days.
How will I be notified that my skip payment requests are in place?
An email will be sent to the address we have on file.