The Real Cost of a PCS

This episode explores the real costs of a PCS move, including expenses military families may need to pay upfront before receiving reimbursement. It covers common overlooked costs like travel, pets, vehicles, moving supplies, and household essentials, along with tips for building a PCS budget.

Learn more at https://blog.ahrn.com/pcs-budget-toolkit/#vehicle-costs.

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The AHRN Minute provides concise, one-minute insights to help the military community stay informed and prepared. Each episode covers timely topics like BAH rate updates, PCS tips, military-focused events, and stories that matter to service members and their families.

Built from the same trusted content behind the AHRN blog, this podcast is your fast, no-fluff way to get the information you need as you navigate military life. Whether you’re gearing up for a PCS, exploring housing options, or just want to stay in the know, The AHRN Minute keeps it simple and relevant.

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Welcome to the AHRN Minute. My name is Jenny Nielsen, and today we’re talking about the real cost of a PCS.

You may have heard that the military pays for your move, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t have expenses of your own.

PCS benefits like Dislocation Allowance, Temporary Lodging Expense, mileage reimbursement, and per diem can help cover many of these costs. But you may still have to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement.

Think about expenses like gas, hotels, packing supplies, pet transportation, vehicle maintenance, and even groceries and household essentials once you arrive.

If you’re doing a Personally Procured Move, you may also need to pay upfront for a truck, fuel, packing materials, or moving labor.

The key is to budget ahead. Separate reimbursable expenses from those you’ll pay yourself, save your receipts, and consider adding a 10-to-15 percent buffer for unexpected costs.

That’s your AHRN Minute, and thanks for listening!