Serving in the military comes with financial perks such as special duty pays, bonuses and tax-free income while serving in combat zones. When that extra money is coming in, it can feel like a mini lottery victory, but if you don't have a plan for your extra pay, it can disappear fast, with nothing to show for it at the end of your service. The key is to use your bonus or extra pay to build a stronger, more stable financial future -- one that can withstand the constant changes of military life