Jim Absher

Jim Absher is Military.com's former benefits editor and columnist. He joined the Navy to see the world and later realized the world is two-thirds water. He also worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs in field offices and Washington, D.C. before coming to Military.com in 2015.

Latest Articles

Sign by the main gate at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Ft. Worth, formerly Carswell AFB, Texas. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Reserve Education Benefits User's Guide

The federal government offers several educational assistance programs that may be of benefit to military reservists and...

Active-Duty Montgomery GI Bill

The following is a summary of the Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty program.

GI Bill Q&A: How It Works

The following will offer answers to the most frequently asked questions about the GI Bill.

The U.S. Medicare Handbook is photographed in Washington, D.C.

Medicare Open Enrollment

During open enrollment you can change or add plans.

Tricare and FEDVIP Open Seasons: What You Need to Know

The open enrollment periods for Tricare and FEDVIP let you make changes to your insurance coverage.

The number 2025 is painted on a highway that extends to the sunset.

Just What Is Open Season, and Why Should You Care?

It's time to review and change your health insurance, if necessary.

Want Extra Vision Insurance? Get It Through FEDVIP

Military families and retirees qualify for the FEDVIP vision insurance program.

Retiree Dental Insurance

Retirees can get dental coverage with the FEDVIP program.

What Is a Qualifying Life Event for Tricare?

A qualifying life event (QLE) is usually needed to make changes to Tricare outside of open season. So what is a QLE?

Dominion National man shaking hands with dentist

Open Enrollment: How to Choose a FEDVIP Dental Plan

With several dental carriers to choose from, how do you choose wisely?

Mother and daughter Sandra and Nathenia Wells completed and associate of arts in general studies degrees and walked the stage at the Fort Bragg Colleges and Universities Graduation and Recognition Ceremony. (U.S. Army/Amber Avalona)

MyCAA Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Account program can provide up to $4,000 in financial assistance for military spouses.

Washington State Veteran Benefits

The state of Washington provides several veteran benefits. This page explains those benefits.

Health Care After Leaving the Military

Plan ahead to make sure you and your family have health care coverage after you get out of the military.

A squad of soldiers in camo walk on a dirt road through the woods toward the camera.

Reserve Tuition Assistance

Many members of the Selected Reserve are eligible for up to 100% Tuition Assistance for college courses.

Veteran Readiness and Employment

If you have VA disability and an employment handicap, you may be entitled to Veteran Readiness and Employment services.

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