We’ve all done it…and probably several times!
It’s when we receive new orders and start preparing to make a move to a new duty station. Which happens around every 3 years, more often for some of us.
Unfortunately, according to the Military Family Advisory Network (MFAN), these frequent moves can add up to a lot of costs – around an average of $5000 in out-of-pocket, non-reimbursable expenses each time we PCS.
PCSing alone can be challenging in and of itself. Adding financial hardship can make it even more stressful. However, I truly believe that research along some good with planning, and budgeting can help make the process go a little more smoothly and less costly.
Here are a few steps you can take to help prepare:
Know Your Entitlements & Allowances
Service members receive travel allowances and entitlements that will reimburse expenses associated with a PCS. These include mileage, hotel stays, and food while traveling to your new duty station. Depending on your situation, you could also be eligible for a temporary lodging allowance if you have to wait on permanent housing and a dislocation allowance that can help with replacing any household items that you may need to set up your new home.
Some of these allowances can be paid up to 10 days in advance of the move to help offset the out-of-pocket costs that could be incurred. Researching to have a good idea of the amounts that will be reimbursed during a PCS move is imperative to making a successful PCS plan. Learn more about allowances and reimbursements and check this year’s rates on the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) website.
Have a Plan & Budget
Creating a PCS plan and budget doesn’t have to be complicated but does take some preparation. Start by making a list of all known expenses that will be incurred. In addition to regular moving costs like packing supplies and storing items, also consider fuel, hotel accommodations, food, pet charges, and activities along the way. I recommend adding the highest possible price into the budget.
Underestimating actual costs or not controlling expenses can lead to overspending and possibly exceeding reimbursement limits. It’s a good idea to include a “contingency fund” into the budget – just so there is a little extra built-in, just in case you run into some unforeseen “bumps in the road” along the way.
Milspouse PCS Tip: Don’t forget to keep your receipts!
Know Your Available Resources
Often, military families find themselves arriving at a new duty station before their belongings and household goods or before their on-base housing is available and ready. This leaves many in temporary lodging and possibly lacking some essentials, which can lead to additional costs due to the need to purchase items to use in the meantime. The resources available can help lower these costs and assist with these expenses.
Installation Military & Family Support Centers are a great source of information and offer assistance and programs like newcomer briefings, childcare options, and career counseling. They are also able to connect families with their Key Spouse or Ombudsman which can help them get familiar with the area and other available resources.
There are also on-base lending closets, thrift shops, and pantries, usually run by spouse’s clubs or the 1st Sgt Council, where families can borrow or purchase items at deep discounts instead of heading out to a local retailer. Many installations will have restaurants that offer family meals and fun nights at reasonable prices, which can be a more budget-friendly option for eating out when unable to cook normally.
Military OneSource offers additional tips for planning a PCS move and has consultants available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week that can answer questions and help make connections with other resources. A consultant can be reached by calling 800-342-9647 or via live chat.
PCS’ing is anything but easy but it could be the start of a great new family adventure.
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