Financial Assistance

The cost of living in Japan is higher than in some areas in the United States. This should not be a cause for concern since the Navy compensates for this difference with a Cost of Living Allowance included in the active-duty service member's pay. This amount is adjusted as the yen rate fluctuates. Also, most daily necessities are available on base so day-to-day living should be well within the comfort range for all personnel stationed in Sasebo.

Depending on whether you are traveling alone or with your family and pets, you will need several hundred dollars' worth of yen in your pocket to cover unforeseen events. If you require ground transportation or your flight is delayed overnight, you may need advance money on the spur of the moment. Not all credit cards are accepted throughout Japan.

Housing Costs

A Temporary Lodging Allowance is currently provided for the first 30 days from the time of arrival in Sasebo by either the active-duty member or the dependents, whoever arrives first. Department of Defense civilians receive 90 days of TLA. Conditional provisions are made for a 30-day extension of TLA. This allowance should cover expenses for lodging in the Navy Lodge or in a Japanese hotel. If you do not think you are eligible for TLA, plan accordingly when determining your moving budget. Japanese hotels are expensive and lodging on base is provided on a space-available basis.

An Overseas Housing Allowance is provided to most accompanied personnel living on the economy to cover a major portion of the rent and utilities; however, initial moving-in expenses can run into the thousands of dollars. A portion of this can be reimbursed by the Navy and there is the option of an Advance Housing Allowance in some instances, which would be deducted from the member's pay on a planned repayment schedule. More information can be obtained from the Housing Office at your current duty station.

Moving-in Housing Allowance and Dislocation Allowance are also available to most U.S. Navy personnel relocating with their families. These are provided to cover special relocation costs and you should be sure that these allowances are set aside and used for their intended purpose.

Telephone Rights

Telephone rights are purchased in Japan. These telephone rights are for people living on the Japanese economy and usually run a few hundred dollars for telephone line rental. 

Transportation

You should plan on purchasing a car while in Sasebo. The public transportation system here is not as extensive as that in the Tokyo area. A used car normally costs $1,000-$3,500 plus a few hundred dollars for insurance. Insurance cost is based on the member's age and pay grade and can vary from $300-$500 annually for liability insurance. Officers may use their USAA insurance policy for part of their automobile insurance. Ownership transfer fees can cost from $50-$300.

Counseling and resources are available as well as a variety of workshops, including savings and investment, car-buying strategies and budgeting assistance. Classes are given both as requested and on a scheduled basis. Million Dollar Sailor and Command Financial Specialist classes are also available. All services are available at Fleet and Family Support Center.