A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is a reality for most service members, often coming with financial challenges. While the military provides some assistance, careful planning can make a huge difference in saving money, avoiding debt, and maximizing military benefits. Whether you’re moving CONUS (Continental U.S.) or OCONUS (Outside the Continental U.S.), here are the best PCS financial strategies to help you navigate your next move.

Understand Your PCS Entitlements

Before making financial decisions, familiarize yourself with the PCS entitlements available to you. These can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs and help military families save money during a move.

Common PCS Allowances:

• Dislocation Allowance (DLA) – Helps offset PCS moving costs not covered by other reimbursements.
• Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) – Covers hotel and meal costs when moving within the continental U.S. (CONUS).
• Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) – Covers similar expenses for overseas (OCONUS) PCS moves.
• Personally Procured Move (PPM, aka DITY Move) – Allows you to move your belongings yourself and potentially earn money.
• Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT) – Pays for mileage when driving your own vehicle during a PCS move.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep all PCS reimbursement receipts and documentation to ensure you get maximum military PCS reimbursements.

Decide Between a Government Move or PPM (DITY Move)

The military offers two primary PCS moving options:

1. Government-Funded Move – The military coordinates and pays for movers to pack, transport, and deliver your household goods.
2. Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY Move) – You handle the move yourself, and the government reimburses you a percentage of what they would have paid movers.

A PPM can be financially beneficial if you minimize expenses by renting a truck, packing yourself, and keeping costs below the government reimbursement amount.

🚛 DITY PCS Tip: Get quotes from U-Haul, Penske, and Budget to compare costs and potentially turn a profit on your PCS military move.

Smart Ways to Cut Costs on Your PCS Move

1. Sell or Donate Unnecessary Items

The less you move, the cheaper and easier your PCS will be. Consider selling or donating unwanted items before your move. Apps like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or Craigslist can help turn clutter into cash and make your PCS move more cost-effective.

2. Meal Plan to Reduce Food Costs

During a PCS, it’s easy to overspend on eating out. Plan meals and use a slow cooker, air fryer, or microwave in temporary lodging to save money during a PCS move.

3. Maximize Your Travel Reimbursements

• Use the government travel credit card (if issued) for covered expenses.
• Track mileage for MALT reimbursement if driving to your new duty station.
• Book lodging early to take advantage of military rates and avoid last-minute price hikes.

4. Utilize Military Discounts

Many businesses offer military discounts for PCS moves, including:

• Hotels (IHG, Marriott, Choice Hotels)
• Truck Rentals (Penske, Budget, U-Haul)
• Storage Units (CubeSmart, Public Storage, Extra Space Storage)
• Flights (American Airlines, Delta, United)

PCS Financial Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Not Budgeting for Unexpected Costs

Even with military PCS reimbursements, upfront PCS expenses like deposits, pet transport, and vehicle registration can strain finances. Have an emergency fund to cover unexpected costs.

2. Overspending on Temporary Housing

Avoid staying in high-cost hotels longer than necessary. Use TLE/TLA allowances and check military lodging first to save money during a PCS move.

3. Taking on Unnecessary Debt

Avoid using credit cards or personal loans for PCS expenses. Plan ahead and take advantage of military PCS entitlements to minimize costs.

Maximizing Military Benefits After Your PCS Move

Once you’ve settled into your new duty station, take these PCS financial planning steps:

• Update your BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) – Ensure your new housing rate is correct.
• Reassess your budget – Adjust for cost-of-living changes.
• Review your investments – If using TSP or Roth IRA, update contributions based on new financial conditions.
• Find the best banking options – Consider military-friendly banks and credit unions with PCS-friendly services and low fees.

Final Thoughts

PCS moves for military families can be financially stressful, but smart PCS financial planning can make the process smoother and more cost-effective. By understanding military PCS entitlements, cutting unnecessary costs, and budgeting for PCS expenses, you can keep more money in your pocket and focus on your next mission.

Want More Military Finance Tips?

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