One of the best ways to minimize your out-of-pocket or additional expenses is to set up a budget for your move. Planning a relocation budget is the secret to staying in financial control throughout your move. The Relocation Budget Planner is an Excel spreadsheet that you can save to and use on your PC, or you can print it out and keep a running tab on a paper copy. Follow the easy instructions at the top of the spreadsheet to guide you through the process. A good idea is to take the Budget Planner to your relocation/financial counselor at the Family Center for professional assistance. Keep your Relocation Budget Planner up-to-date as estimates become actual costs, and as your assumptions change.  If you are moving overseas, you will need to keep track of the currency conversion so that you know what the actual dollars are that you are spending.

You should also keep track of expenses related to your move. (You will need a record for tax-deduction reasons, if you itemize.) It is a good idea to keep track of your reimbursements, as well. For example, reimbursement you receive for DITY or personal moves, as they are now called, is considered taxable income.

To learn about your PCS allowances, check out the following. The most up-to-date information on allowances is on the Per Diem, Travel and Transportation Allowance Committee website. Uniformed members and civilian employees have different allowances which can be found on the Per Diem Committee's website. The Defense Accounting and Finance Service (DFAS) website has complete information on pay and travel benefits for both uniformed and civilian employees.

If you do get into financial trouble, do not forget that your Service has an emergency relief fund which can be accessed on any military installation through the Family Center's Financial Assistance manager.