Relocation & PCS Moves
What a PCS Really Costs Out of Pocket (and How to Get It Back)
The real out-of-pocket cost of a military move, why reimbursement lags 1-2 months, and how to front it without going into debt.
- Families average about $8,000 out of pocket per PCS even with reimbursement, and ~43% wait 1-2 months to be repaid.
- Advance pay, the Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY) incentive, and dislocation allowance can offset costs — if you know to claim them.
- Our PCS cost estimator gives you a number before you move so it doesn't blindside the budget.
- Keep every receipt — reimbursement depends on documentation most people don't save.
The free official program
Plan My Move / MilitaryINSTALLATIONS (official, free) — Move scheduling/tracking is via DPS at move.mil; installation info is free through the official program. Call 833-645-6683.
Frequently asked
Does the military pay for my move?
It reimburses much of it, but families still front thousands and wait weeks to be repaid. Allowances like DLA and a PPM incentive can help — claim them all.
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