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PCS Resources and Support for Military Moves

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Resources and Support for PCS Moves

With Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders come mixed feelings. Whether you’re excited by the prospect of starting over, unhappy about your upcoming move, or processing mixed emotions, the more resources and support you have, the better.  Here’s an assortment of resources in 8 PCS-related categories you might find useful.

Mental and Emotional Support

If moving, or adjusting to a new location, is causing you anxiety or depression, you can request Free Confidential Non-Medical Counseling through the Military and Family Life Counseling Program at installations worldwide and through Military OneSource. To learn more, call Military OneSource at 800-342-9647. Phones are answered 24/7.

If you have small children who are worried about the move, Sesame Street for Military Families has created some very special, free PCS-related content just for them.

Logistic Support

If you love apps, My Ultimate PCS is for you. This planning app will help you track your move progress, store inventory photos, and access important links and resources.

If you prefer to work from your computer, Plan My Move, created by The U.S. Department of Defense, (DOD) offers a user-friendly online tool to create a custom checklist.

If you’re afraid of overlooking something, refer to the Ultimate PCS Guide to Packing Out. You can also download and print it as a free PDF.

Packing and Storage

After six PCS moves in a single decade, their military wife, C.C., created The Stressless PCS kit, a labeling system to help you keep track of every item.

Before you run off and buy expensive boxes and padding, why not check Freecycle? Someone right around the corner may have just unpacked.

General Information

If you have unanswered questions, you can visit Master Your PCS. Another resource is Operation We Are Here.

Relocation Expenses

Policies and rates of reimbursements and allowance for Per Diem and Mileage are available online.  The government pays for you to ship your household goods authorized at a weight limit based on your rank and family status. Don’t forget that moving expenses that aren’t reimbursed, or furnished in kind, may be tax deductible.

RELATED: PCS Pay Entitlements

Arrival at Your New Location

Military Crash Pad is a temporary housing option that was originally created for military members on Temporary Duty Assignment.

There’s always a chance you’ll arrive at your new location before your boxes. That’s why the military community has created Lending Closets. You can borrow basic necessities. All they ask is that you return the items when you’re done. For access to this resource, visit your Fleet & Family Services, Army Community Services, or Airman & Family Readiness office. If you’re moving overseas, you can also request loaner furniture.

Permanent Housing

If you want “boots on the ground” in your new location in advance, you may want to use Millie Scout. They’re a network of independent contractors who help military families manage their long-distance rentals and more.

Settling In

Participating in a New Spouse Orientation is a great way for military spouses to get an introduction to the new community and make new friends. You can also request a sponsor (if you weren’t assigned one) who has the local knowledge, experience, and connections to help ease your transition. There’s also a Youth Sponsorship Program and a network of School Liaisons. You can find the one you need through a search on Military Installations.

If you’re in any of the 50 states and need help making sure your kids enroll in the classes they need, play sports, and graduate on time, you have the support of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children.  There are also PCS resources available for family members with special needs.

 

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About the author

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Julie Provost is a freelance writer, and blogger. She lives in Tennessee with her National Guard husband and three boys.