Building a PCS Budget That Actually Works

Even with allowances, many families spend more than they expect on a move. A simple budget keeps you in control.

Know what money is coming in

Possible PCS income includes:

• Dislocation Allowance (DLA), a lump sum for setup costs. For 2026, rates range from $1,870.58 for an E-1 without dependents to $6,385.58 for O-7 and above with dependents.
• MALT and per diem for each authorized day of travel.
• TLE for temporary lodging in the U.S., up to 21 days, or TLA overseas.
• Pet relocation reimbursement, up to $550 within the U.S. and $2,000 overseas for one pet.
• PPM reimbursement, if you move some goods yourself.
• Spouse relicensing reimbursement, up to $1,000 through your service.

Not all of this arrives before you spend it. Much of it is paid after you file your travel voucher.

List what goes out

Common PCS costs include:

• Lodging and meals beyond what TLE covers.
• Rental deposits, first month's rent, pet deposits and utility deposits.
• Restaurant meals while kitchen items are in transit.
• Replacing items you threw out or that do not fit the new home, such as curtains and rugs.
• Vehicle registration and maintenance.
• Child care during pack-out.
• Overlapping rent or mortgage.

Manage the cash gap

The biggest risk is timing: costs come up front while reimbursements arrive later. Options include:

• Request advance DLA or advance travel pay.
• Use advance basic pay, an interest-free loan of up to three months of pay. It reduces future paychecks, so use only what you need.
• Build a small PCS savings fund before orders arrive.
• Your service relief society (AER, AFAS, NMCRS or CGMA) offers interest-free loans for true emergencies.

Avoid high-interest credit cards and payday lenders.

File your voucher fast

The sooner you file, the sooner you get paid. Keep a folder (paper or phone) for every lodging receipt, weight ticket and pet invoice.

Recalculate housing

Your new BAH or OHA may be higher or lower than the old one. Look it up, then adjust your monthly budget. BAH is meant to cover most, not all, typical housing costs.

Get free help

Personal financial counselors at family centers and Military OneSource offer free sessions to build a PCS budget.