Preparing for a Permanent Change of Station
Approximately one-third of active-duty service members are moved in a given year, according to the Department of Defense. And though you may benefit from a number of PCS entitlements, you may incur a number of unexpected — and unreimbursed — expenses as well.
To keep your out-of-pocket expenses to a minimum, do your homework before your PCS. Take advantage of resources which may be available through the transportation office, finance office, and family center at your installation. Find out which benefits you’re entitled to and determine how much of your expenses they’ll cover. You may be entitled to:
- Advance Basic Pay — an interest-free loan of up to three months of basic pay
- Advance Basic Allowance, Housing (BAH) — an advance on monthly pay for off-base rental housing
- Dislocation Allowance (DLA) — helps pay for moving expenses
- Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transporation (MALT) — pays for mileage when you drive to your new station
- Per Diem Allowance — helps pay for meals and lodging while you travel
- Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) — helps pay for meals and lodging when temporary housing is required
The better your idea of your expenses, and the better your knowledge of what’s covered, the better you’ll be able to establish a budget for your move. Be sure to figure in costs for food and household items you’ll need to purchase when you arrive, as well miscellaneous costs like deposits for utilities.
An interest-bearing money market savings account from First Command Bank is ideal for saving toward your PCS. And because you can manage your accounts conveniently with OnCommand™ online banking and toll-free telephone banking, you can transfer funds as needed to a First Command checking account to pay expenses by check or Debit MasterCard®.
A comprehensive personal financial plan and advice from your Financial Advisor can help you experience mobility with financial stability. To learn more, contact a trusted First Command Financial Advisor today.