JJ Montanaro

Joseph "JJ" Montanaro is a certified financial planner professional (CFP^®). He is a native of Kansas City, Missouri, and earned his bachelor’s degree from the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York. He also holds a master’s degree in personal financial planning from Kansas State. JJ is a director on the USAA Military Advocacy team.

Montanaro has more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. He is a regular contributor to Military.com and also writes monthly personal finance columns for American Legion and Military Spouse magazines. Before entering the financial services industry, he served in the Army for six years on active duty, and in 2009, he retired as a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve.

Latest Articles

The words "estate planning" appear in black letters sideways on lined notebook papers, on a wood desktop surrounded by office items and coffee.

Wills and More: These Are the Legal Documents Every Military Household Needs

Estate planning isn’t just about protecting your assets; it’s about protecting your family from unnecessary stress and...

A hand holding a pen appears to be checking items on a list amid graphic icons representing forms of insurance.

Preparing for the Worst: 5 Steps to Review and Update Insurance Policies for Financial Security

The key to staying protected is making insurance reviews a regular part of your financial routine -- because the last thing...

On red background, cash money with handwritten note EMERGENCY FUND, financial goal to save money for contingency fund, set money aside for unexpected expenses or safety net for future distress.

Your 2025 Emergency Fund: How Military Households Can Weather the Storm

A readily accessible pool of cash in the form of an emergency fund provides a crucial buffer against financial shocks...

Social security card and American money dollar bills close up concept

Retirement Savings To-Do Lists for Military Households

The key to a successful retirement isn't just saving; it's setting up guaranteed lifetime income so that your essential...

A pie baking in a dark oven with sideways lighting appears to be made out of U.S. bills.

7 Financial Fundamentals for Military Families

Let’s take a look at the essential ingredients that make up a well-rounded financial life.

Man is dropping coins into a blue piggy bank, symbolizing the act of saving and financial responsibility.

How Military Families Can Take Control of Their Finances

The fundamental principle of financial success boils down to a simple yet powerful concept we shared with our kids: Spend...

Hands hold a printed mock-up of a credit report, implying a person is reading the report.

How Military Families Can Manage Debt and Build a Stronger Credit Score

Approach debt with caution, respect and a plan, and you'll ensure it works for you -- not against you.

A close-up of Benjamin Franklin's eye, eyebrow, nose, cheek and hair from the U.S. $100 bill.

Military Households: Here's the Most Important Financial Advice You'll Ever Receive

Without a financial plan, your budgeting, saving, investing, tax, insurance protection and retirement planning just float...

5 Ways Military Families Can Start to Get Ahead Financially

Here are five actionable ideas derived from certified financial planner JJ Montanaro's take on the first Military Financial...

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