- Q: What is Army Emergency Relief (AER)?
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Army Emergency Relief is the official nonprofit for the U.S. Army, providing financial assistance to eligible Soldiers, retired Soldiers, and their Families. Assistance may be provided through a zero-interest loan, a grant, or a combination of both, depending on individual and program guidelines.
- Q: Who is eligible for AER Assistance?
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AER serves eligible active-duty Soldiers, active-duty Soldiers, retired Soldiers, eligible Family members, and surviving Spouses. Eligibility depends on the applicant’s status and applicable AER policies. Contact Fort Carson AER if you are unsure you qualify, +1(719)526-4783.
- Q: How do I apply for AER assistance?
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Applications can be submitted through the AER Online Application Portal: https://aerprod.powerappsportals.us/. Before applying, review the Fort Carson AER Application checklist to identify documents you may need. The checklist is not the application.
- Q: What documents do I need to apply?
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Required documents depend on the assistance requested. You may need a current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), financial information, and documents supporting your request, such as lease, bill, estimate, or payment notice. Review the application checklist or call Fort Carson AER at +1(719)526-4783 for guidance.
- Q: Can AER help with rent or a security deposit?
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AER may assist with eligible housing expenses, including rent and certain move-in costs. Supporting documents, such as a lease or statement of charges, may be required. Assistance is based on financial need and applicable guidelines.
- Q: Can AER help with food or other basic necessities?
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AER may provide assistance for essential needs such as food, utilities, and certain household necessities. Contact Fort Carson AER to discuss your circumstances and available assistance.
- Q: Can AER help with furniture or household items?
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AER may assist with basic essential household items in qualifying circumstances. Contact Fort Carson AER to discuss your specific needs and documentation requirements.
- Q: Can AER help with temporary lodging?
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Temporary lodging may qualify for assistance depending on the circumstances and applicable AER guidelines. Contact Fort Carson AER to discuss your situation.
- Q: Can I request assistance before arriving at Fort Carson?
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You may begin the AER application process before arriving at Fort Carson. If you need relocation-related assistance, contact your current installation AER office or use the online application portal. Verify rental properties and agreements before sending money.
- Q: What if I receive deployment or PCS orders after signing a lease?
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The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) may allow eligible service members to terminate residential leases after receiving qualifying orders. Contact your installation Legal Assistance Office for guidance on eligibility and required notice.
- Q: How do I request AER assistance after normal business hours?
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The AER online application portal accepts requests at any time: https://aerprod.powerappsportals.us/. Submitting a request outside business hours does not guarantee immediate review or payment.
For urgent needs, contact Fort Carson AER for current emergency assistance procedures.
Financial assistance when it matters most.
ARMY EMERGENCY RELIEF (AER) is the official nonprofit of the U.S. Army, empowering Soldiers, enhancing lives. Their mission is to provide financial assistance, educational scholarships and enduring support to Soldiers, retired Soldiers and their Families, helping them to overcome financial obstacles and encourage financial stability. AER provides financial assistance through zero-interest loans and grants.
How can we help you today?
Choose the option that best fits your needs. Please Note: The checklist helps you prepare; it does not submit an application.
FOR QUESTIONS REGARDING AER PLEASE CALL +1(719)526-4783
How to Apply Online
A simple walkthrough for getting started
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Army Emergency Relief (AER) provides assistance for higher education and professional certifications through two scholarship programs:
Mrs. Patty Shinseki Spouse Scholarship Program for Army spouses
Maj Gen James Ursano Scholarship Program for Dependent Children
The Fort Carson Financial Readiness Program offers financial education and counseling on budgeting, credit, debt management, military pay, and retirement planning. Visit https://carson.armymwr.com/programs/financial-readiness-program.
