FREE RESOURCES
Tools & Resources
Free financial tools built specifically for first responders. Download, print, and put them to work — no email required.
BUDGETING & CASH FLOW
New Officer Financial Checklist
8-step checklist covering accounts, pension enrollment, insurance, emergency fund, and debt — for officers in their first 12 months.
Shift Worker Budget Template
A zero-based budget template designed around irregular pay, overtime, and shift differentials. Separate tabs for base pay and overtime allocation.
Overtime & Tax Planning Worksheet
Understand how overtime affects your marginal tax rate, W-4 withholding adjustments, and how retirement contributions lower your AGI.
RETIREMENT & PENSION
PSLF Quick-Start Checklist
Step-by-step checklist to verify PSLF eligibility, confirm loan types, enroll in the right repayment plan, and submit your Employment Certification Form.
Pension Analysis Worksheet
Walk through your pension benefit formula, calculate your projected monthly payout, and compare DROP vs. standard retirement scenarios.
Retirement Gap Calculator
Calculate how much you need to retire, what your pension will cover, and the savings gap you need to fill with 457(b) and IRA contributions.
DEBT & STUDENT LOANS
Debt Inventory & Payoff Planner
List every debt, calculate true interest cost, and run both avalanche and snowball payoff scenarios side-by-side to choose your strategy.
Student Loan & PSLF Guide
BLOG
A comprehensive guide to understanding your federal loan types, PSLF eligibility requirements, income-driven repayment, and common mistakes that cost people forgiveness.
WANT MORE?
These tools are just the start.
The SHIELD Coaching Program builds a complete, personalized financial plan around your actual numbers — 4 sessions, 12 deliverables, built for your career.