While making sure the kids are emotionally ok and your spouse has everything they need before they deploy are all important aspects of a deployment, many times people forget one of the most important of all: preparing household business. All these little administrative tasks aren’t necessarily fun and they are going to be one of the furthest things from your mind, but they can save you a lot of heartache in the long run.

Review your insurance policies. Be sure you have the right coverage, the right deductibles and that everyone’s wishes are clear and noted. Check SGLI amounts and make sure all information is correct. Make a plan for any extra money you’ll be receiving during the deployment (hazardous duty, tax free, etc.). Set up a new budget and make sure everyone agrees on it. Be sure to list extras like phone calls, port visits, etc. If it’s tax time, fill out an IRS Power of Attorney or file for an extension. Decide how the taxes will be filed.

Verify all family members are correctly listed in DEERS. Check expiration dates on ID cards and base access stickers. If they’re set to expire before the end of the deployment, be sure to file the paperwork for new ones beforehand. Be sure correct contact information is listed in your service record in case of an emergency. Write down local Red Cross information and keep it in a safe location so you can locate it easily in case of emergency.

Make a list of all important contact information for agencies, businesses and important people. This should be done for the service member and the family staying behind. Everyone has access to the same information and can use it even without contact between each other. Decide ahead of time how contact will be made between family members. Be specific, make a plan and stick to it. Include any cards, stationary, stamps, address book or email addresses that may be necessary.

Prepare Powers of Attorney. This can be invaluable in a family member getting tasks completed back home. It’s a good idea to keep these on file with your bank and other financial institutions so you don’t need to fax it in when you need them to have it. Prepare a will. No, they’re not fun and most people don’t like doing them, but the service is free through your base legal office and they’re always a good idea.

Preparing everything for a deployment can be daunting. With a little effort though, things can run as smoothly as possible and you’ll have more time to focus on the family.