Surviving a PCS Move: A Military Relocation Guide
Updated July 2026
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is a military-ordered move to a new duty station. The military helps pay for it through several allowances — but you have to know what to claim. Here is how a PCS works and how to get reimbursed.
The allowances that help pay for it
- Dislocation Allowance (DLA): a lump sum to offset the miscellaneous costs of relocating a household.
- Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE): reimburses lodging and meals for a limited number of days around the move within the U.S. (overseas moves use Temporary Lodging Allowance, TLA).
- Travel per diem & mileage: for you and your dependents driving to the new station.
Keep every receipt — many of these require documentation to claim.
Moving your stuff: government move vs. PPM
You generally choose between a government-arranged move (the military hires movers to pack and ship your household goods) and a Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly "DITY," where you move yourself. With a PPM the military reimburses you up to what it would have cost them — and if you move for less, you can keep the difference as taxable income.
Spouse and family support
PCS moves affect the whole family. Spouses who must re-license in a new state may be reimbursed up to $1,000 for relicensing costs, and programs like MyCAA and the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) help with careers and special needs. See the family benefits.
Practical tips
- Start early and hand-carry important documents (orders, medical/dental records, IDs, valuables).
- Photograph high-value items before packing for any damage claims.
- Use your installation's transportation office — they handle the logistics and know the current entitlements.
Frequently asked questions
What allowances do you get for a PCS move?
Common PCS allowances include the Dislocation Allowance (a lump sum for relocation costs), Temporary Lodging Expense/Allowance for short-term lodging, and travel per diem and mileage for you and your dependents. Keep receipts to claim them.
What is a personally procured move (PPM)?
A PPM (formerly DITY) is when you move your household goods yourself instead of using government-arranged movers. The military reimburses you up to its own cost to move you, and any savings you achieve are yours to keep as taxable income.
Does the military pay to move your family?
Yes. A PCS covers travel and moving costs for your dependents, shipment of household goods, and temporary lodging, through the allowances above. Your installation transportation office arranges and explains your specific entitlements.
Can a military spouse get reimbursed for a new license after a PCS?
Yes. The DoD reimburses eligible spouses up to $1,000 for professional relicensing or recertification costs required because a PCS moved them to a new state.