What is the military moving allowance?

The Military Moving Allowance is a financial aid the Department of Defense provides to assist service members during relocations due to a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). This allowance is primarily determined by the overall weight of the service member's household goods, and it generally increases with the rank specified on the job/travel orders. It is designed to alleviate the financial burden of moving, covering costs related to the transportation of household goods, among other relocation expenses.

The Military Moving Allowance, commonly known as Permanent Change of Station (PCS), is an initiative by the Department of Defense to assist service members during their relocation process financially. This assistance is vital in smoothing the transition phase for our military personnel, alleviating monetary concerns tied to substantial moves incited by changes in duty stations. The allowance isn't intended to cover all expenses, yet it substantially contributes to common relocation costs such as packing, shipping, and transportation of household goods.

Eligibility Criteria for Military Moving Allowance

Approval for a military moving allowance is not granted to all service members automatically. It's primarily dependent on specific requirements determined and overseen by the Department of Defense. To qualify for this allowance, a service member must be moving due to a permanent change of station (PCS) order. Whether an individual is moving within the country or posted overseas, a PCS move makes them eligible for the military moving allowance.

Certain special situations can also grant eligibility. For instance, personnel on temporary duty (TDY) or temporary additional duty (TAD) may receive the moving allowance. Similarly, if a military member is discharged but is required to move to a location designated by the government, they may receive the moving allowance as part of the transition. The key point here is that the move should be deemed essential and directed by the military; only then does the moving allowance come into play.

The Process of Applying for a Military Moving Allowance

The application process for a military moving allowance is initiated by submitting your order for a permanent change of station (PCS). This order should be submitted to your Transportation Management Office (TMO). The staff at TMO will give you the necessary guidance to facilitate your relocation process. The PCS orders ought to be completed and submitted promptly. Failure to do so might delay receiving the military moving allowance, which may hinder your relocation preparations.

Once your PCS orders have been approved, it's time to apply for the military moving allowance. Application forms can be obtained from the TMO. These forms contain detailed instructions, including what to fill in each section. Remember to fill in the forms accurately and thoroughly, as any inaccuracies could lead to a delay or even rejection of your application. After completing the form, submit it to the TMO office. The staff will process your application and determine your eligibility based on the information provided.