Why Soldiers Request Gift Cards and How to Avoid Scams
Soldiers stationed far from home often request gift cards to access desired items and brands. But many civilians wonder – why can‘t soldiers just use their own money? This article will analyze the legitimate reasons for gift card requests, back them up with data, and provide tips on avoiding scams.
Why Would Deployed Soldiers Need Gift Cards?
Legitimate reasons exist for soldiers overseas to humbly request gift card assistance. Two of the most common are:
Limited Shopping Options – Army bases have Post Exchange shops with basics, but selection is limited. Gift cards let soldiers online shop for preferred name brands.
Supplementing Income – Lower ranking soldiers may take hits to their income while deployed. A $20 gift card goes farther overseas and supplements costs.
But even so, don‘t soldiers receive ample pay and benefits? Misconceptions abound over soldiers‘ financial situations. So let‘s break down the numbers.
By the Numbers: Soldier Income and Expenses
The common perception is that military personnel receive housing, food, utilities and healthcare covered while serving. But a 2021 Military Times survey found that 41% of active duty troops reported struggling to cover monthly expenses. Deployments often heighten financial strain.
Overseas Cost of Living Allowance helps offset higher abroad prices. But according to the DoD, enlisted soldiers at the lowest ranks only earn between $19,000 to $30,000 in base pay per year. And out-of-pocket costs persist.
| Annual Base Pay | Additional Allowances* |
| $19,000 to $30,000 | $2,500 to $3,500 |
*Varies based on location/dependents
As the data shows, a $50 gift card goes a long way for an enlisted soldier paid under $2,000 per month.
Providing Gift Cards to Soldiers with Discernment
When soldiers request gift card help, how can civilians provide support while avoiding scams? Here are some tips:
Verify Identities – Confirm deployment status through the Defense Manpower Data Center before sending money or codes.
Watch for Red Flags – Scammers pressure urgency, share inconsistencies, or cannot video chat.
Start Small – Test legitimacy by first sending a small denomination card.
Utilize Charities – Donate to vetted military support non-profits avoiding individual distribution risks.
Set Boundaries – Remember that troops sign up to serve while civilians commit voluntarily. Draw clear gift card contribution limits.
The military lifetsyle warrants civilian gratitude. But soldiers themselves don‘t expect society‘s indebtedness or charity. A humble gift card, given judiciously, can provide deployed troops comforts of home they deeply appreciate during sacrifice. Yet avoiding scams in the process remains paramount.
Applying prudence helps civilians support service members meaningfully, while expecting integrity safeguards troops earning society‘s continued trust. When discerning civilians and ethical soldiers unite in good faith efforts, both parties contribute toward the greater good.
