Fort Detrick  Military and Family Support Center

The ACS FRP can assist you with all your financial needs: financial goal planning, attainment; budget planning; checkbook management; debt liquidation, etc. The FRP has a wealth of information and literature available concerning consumer-related issues and money management.

When planning for your PCS, Service members have the ability to take an advance on their PCS entitlements as soon as the finance office allows. Service members can receive up to 80% of their eligible entitlements in advance.

Check with the Accounting and Finance Office before you move regarding your eligibility for advance pay.

The Fort Detrick community, because of its proximity to DC, is considered a high cost of living area. Soldiers are often surprised by the initial outlay of dollars required to get established in the community. Waiting time for on-post housing will usually average from no waiting period up to a year, depending on family size and needs, therefore families are required to rent off-post housing until they can obtain quarters. All newly assigned military personnel must report to the Fort Detrick Housing Office prior to making any housing selection in the off-post community and prior to entering into any lease. Service members receive BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) for the Fort Detrick/Frederick region.

Temporary Lodging

There is no temporary lodging available on post. There are numerous hotels and motels in the surrounding communities. Prices start around $90 and up.

Rental Costs

Area rental agencies usually require a deposit equal to one month's rent and the first month's rent up front. Rent for a two bedroom unfurnished apartment can cost between $1,070 to $1,295. Rent on a three bedroom unfurnished house can cost between $1,430 and $1,480. Make sure your lease includes a military clause (called the Service Men's Civil Relief Act) providing for the breaking of the lease when you PCS or move on post.

Purchasing a home in the Fort Detrick area can be quite costly, depending on where the house is located. Typically, the closer the house is to the DC metro area, the more expensive it will be. The median list price for houses currently listed in Frederick County is $379,900.

Before you sign a lease or purchase a home, be sure to inquire about the utility bills by calling those services (gas, electric, sewage, water) and getting the previous occupants' averages.

Auto Insurance

When purchasing your insurance, be wary of any "too good to be true" pricing by insurance agents trying to get your business without providing entirely adequate coverage. Government Employees Insurance Company (GEICO) should be researched.

The state minimum is not usually considered enough to provide reasonable protection in case of an accident. Consider this when making your insurance plans and budget.

For AD and retired military Families who are experiencing an unexpected, emergency financial situation, the AER program is available to assist with an interest-free loan or outright grant, depending on the circumstances. The program also provides assistance to spouse and orphans of deceased service members. If you have a financial emergency en route on your PCS, you can request assistance at any military installation near you or by calling the American Red Cross 1-877-7337.