Financial Assistance

Perhaps one of the biggest disadvantages to moving is the cost. Even though the military provides reimbursement for some expenses, many individuals/families also have non-reimbursable expenses.

The cost associated with permanent change of station (PCS) orders can be debilitating for even the most solid budget. Though there are reimbursements for costs associated with PCS moves, research demonstrates the average military family reports out of pocket expenses of over $500.00 and that only one out of every three dollars is reimbursed. Listed below are some of the PCS moving allowances you can plan on to help you budget for your move check with your paying office for exact figures.

Dislocation Allowance (DLA)

Active duty personnel with family members moving from a permanent duty station are entitled to a dislocation allowance. This is paid to offset the costs of closing one home and setting up another.  DLA is not available to those transferring in the same geographical location. DLA may be dispersed at the time of travel, or upon arrival at the gaining command.

Mileage in Lieu of Transportation (MALT)

Service members receive MALT when they drive to a new assignment. The allowance is computed on federal tables of mileage between the old and new duty station. Even though the official distance may be longer or shorter than the service member drives, the official distance determines the allowance payable. MALT is also paid to those going overseas if they drive from their state side location to the port of embarkation for transcontinental plane or ship, or from the port of debarkation to the new duty station. Rates apply to spouses authorized to travel alone or with family members, and to sponsors traveling with family members. These rates also apply to travel in a second car when its use is authorized. MALT will be dispersed at the time of travel.

Per Diem Allowance

Along with DLA and MALT, food and lodging are allotted when making a PCS move.  The allowance paid is based on 350 miles traveled per day.

Temporary Lodging Expense Allowance (TLE) 

Authorized to partially offset the added living expenses incurred within the continental United States by members and family members when it is necessary to occupy temporary lodging incident to a PCS.  TLE is payable for temporary lodgings occupied by the member and/or family members before detachment or after reporting to the new duty station. The maximum number of days payable is 10 days at the maximum rate per day.  Receipts for lodging are required to be able to claim TLE.

Advance Pay

Drawing advance pay should be carefully considered when planning a move.  As soon as you get your orders, a spending plan should be developed early enough to save extra money to be used to assist with the moving expenses. Many times advance pay is spent on other "emergencies" and is not around to assist with moving expenses. In addition, advance pay is a "dead horse" that automatically reduces your take home pay to use for bills and unforeseen moving expenses. Talk to your Command Financial Specialist prior to drawing advance pay.

No more than three months advance pay may be drawn. The advance is normally repaid in equal installments over twelve months. In certain cases, re-payment can be spread over twenty-four months. Advance pay is your base pay, not pay with allowances. Advance housing allowance is up to three months BAH. Advance housing allowance may be re-paid over a twelve month period, and in exceptional circumstances, may be re-paid over a longer period. Remember, all advanced pay is to be repaid.

Personal Financial counseling is provided by the Personal Financial Management Specialists (PFM) at the Fleet and Family Support Center, NAS JRB New Orleans, Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. The PFM offers financial guidance and counseling to personnel experiencing money management difficulties, for those who want to educate themselves on financial topics or those who want to be in control of their finances. Appointments can be scheduled with the Personal Financial Manager by calling 504-678-7569.

The following workshops and one-on-one counseling sessions are offered for:

• Required Financial Readiness Touchpoint Training
• Credit Management, Debt Management, budgeting, pay day loans
• Investments, savings, TSP
• Military pay issues, allotments
• Car buying strategies, real estate
• Bank and credit union memberships
• Security Clearance

The NAS JRB FFSC is the training provider for the Command Financial Specialist Program. Service members, in pay grades E6 and above, are trained to assist members and families of their commands/departments. This training is held periodically throughout the year. Contact your Command Career Counselor for information.

Relocation Budget Planning

PFM offers the following required Financial Readiness Touchpoint training: 

• Budgeting for relocating for moves
• Information on DLA, Travel Entitlements and Pay Advances
• Pre- and Post-Deployment
• Cost of living information for New Orleans and next duty station

You can contact the PFM by calling 504-678-7569.

Cost of Living in New Orleans

Louisiana's cost of living is 9% lower than the U.S. average. Apartment/housing rental average from $800 per month for a one bedroom to $1,700 per month for a 3 bedroom, with an average deposit ranging between $800.00 to $1,700.00. The average cost of utilities per month run approximately $250.00 per month - $500.00 per month. This does not include internet, phone, or cable.  Car Insurance average is $3,380 for a six-month premium.

Have you asked your creditors to reduce your interest rates to 6% under Louisiana law?

Louisiana has their own Servicemember Civil Relief and Consumer Rights: §§ 29:311 — 330. Specifically, Louisiana Revised Statute § 29:312 limits the interest creditors may charge active duty service members, or their spouses, stationed in Louisiana or called to active duty in Louisiana. Interest rates must be reduced to at least 6%, and you may get a refund on the interest that was previously paid which exceeded 6%.  This is not just for preservice debt, but all debts.  

The following is a financial breakdown for "First Move Family" - Three month basic living expenses - In addition, if living in the New Orleans economy, expect to pay one month deposit, last month deposit and a security deposit to equal a month rent. - Security Deposits are required for Gas, Water, Electric, Cable TV, and telephone if living off base - no military waivers given. Financial education is offered to those experiencing money management difficulties or for those who wish to be in control of their finances. Your Command Financial Specialist as well as the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society can work with you to prepare a personalized budget and spending designed to make your life a little easier.