Navigating a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is a significant undertaking for military families. The Department of Defense (DoD) provides various allowances and reimbursements to ease the financial burden. However, many military members and their families are surprised by the hidden costs of moving. These are expenses that often go unreimbursed. As a trusted real estate professional serving military families, I want to shed light on these potential financial pitfalls. Understanding them helps you plan better and minimize out-of-pocket expenses during your next PCS.
Unreimbursed Housing-Related Expenses
Your home is a major part of your life. Moving means a new home. Several costs related to your housing often fall outside of DoD reimbursement.
- Lease Breaking Fees: If you are renting and receive short-notice orders, you may face penalties for breaking your lease. These fees can be substantial. They are rarely covered by the military. Review your lease carefully. Negotiate with your landlord if possible.
- Security Deposits and First Month’s Rent: When you secure a new rental, you will likely need to pay a security deposit and the first month’s rent upfront. While your Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps with initial setup costs, it may not cover these entirely. Plan to have these funds readily available.
- Home Selling Costs: If you own your home, selling it involves numerous expenses. These include real estate commissions, closing costs, staging fees, and potential repairs. The DoD does not typically reimburse these costs. Work with a real estate agent who understands the military market. They can help you navigate these expenses.
- Temporary Housing Beyond Allowances: The DoD provides Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for CONUS moves or Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) for OCONUS moves. These allowances cover a set number of days. If your household goods are delayed, or housing is not immediately available, you might pay for extra hotel nights and meals. These additional days are often unreimbursed.
Personal and Family Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Beyond housing, many personal costs accumulate during a PCS.
- Eating Out: During transit and while settling into a new home, cooking is challenging. You will likely eat out more often. While per diem helps, it rarely covers all meal costs, especially for families. These expenses add up quickly.
- Cleaning Supplies and Household Set-Up: Movers do not transport opened cleaning supplies or perishable food. When you arrive at your new home, you will need to buy new cleaning products, basic pantry staples, and possibly even new linens or kitchenware if yours are delayed. These initial shopping trips can be expensive.
- Pet Transportation Costs: Moving with pets, especially overseas, can be very costly. Fees for veterinary visits, vaccinations, health certificates, and airline travel for pets are significant. The DoD generally does not cover these expenses. Some countries also require pet quarantine, adding further costs for boarding and care.
- Vehicle Maintenance and Unexpected Repairs: If you are driving long distances, your vehicle may need unexpected maintenance. Flat tires or mechanical issues can arise. These repairs are your responsibility. They can disrupt your budget.
- Licensing and Registration Fees: Moving to a new state often means updating driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations. These fees vary by state. They are not typically reimbursed.
- Childcare Costs: If military-operated childcare is unavailable at your new duty station, you might incur significant childcare expenses. While a new pilot program starting October 2024 may offer some reimbursement for a childcare provider’s travel in specific circumstances, the day-to-day costs of civilian childcare are generally out-of-pocket.
Miscellaneous Moving Expenses
Other, often overlooked costs can arise during a PCS.
- Packing Supplies for Personally Procured Moves (PPM/DITY): If you opt for a PPM (formerly DITY move), you are reimbursed based on weight. However, the cost of boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and other supplies can be substantial. If your actual expenses exceed the PPM payout, the difference is your responsibility.
- Tips for Movers: While not mandatory, many families choose to tip their movers. This is an out-of-pocket expense.
- Home Office Setup/Internet Installation: Setting up internet and other utilities in a new home often involves installation fees. If you work from home, setting up a new home office might incur costs for new furniture or equipment.
A PCS is more than just moving boxes. It is a transition for your entire family. Being aware of these hidden costs allows you to create a more realistic budget. Start saving early for your next move. Consult with your installation’s Personal Property Office for detailed information on your specific entitlements. Proactive planning helps make your military move as smooth and financially predictable as possible.
