PCS Budget Planner
Estimate your out-of-pocket PCS costs versus military entitlements. Enter your pay grade, move distance, and housing details to see a full budget breakdown with 2026 JTR rates.
Understanding PCS Entitlements
DLA (Dislocation Allowance)
DLA is a one-time payment designed to partially reimburse the costs of relocating your household. The amount depends on your pay grade and dependency status. DLA is partially taxable — the portion above your actual expenses may be subject to federal income tax. You receive DLA once per PCS, typically paid on your first paycheck after checking in at the new duty station.
MALT & Per Diem
MALT pays $0.205 per mile (2026) for driving your POV to the new duty station. Travel days are authorized at 350 miles per day. Per diem covers meals and incidentals during travel — $163/day for the member and $122/day per dependent. If you fly, you receive the government-rate airfare instead of MALT, and per diem is limited to actual travel days.
TLE (Temporary Lodging Expense)
TLE reimburses lodging and meal costs while you search for permanent housing. CONUS moves authorize up to 10 days of TLE, with daily maximums ranging from $150 to $290 depending on your area's cost of living. OCONUS moves may authorize TLA (Temporary Lodging Allowance) with different rules and higher limits.
Hidden PCS Costs Most Families Miss
Housing Overlap & Deposits
Security deposits, first/last month's rent, utility connection fees, and pet deposits can total $2,000–$4,000 before you even unpack. If your PCS orders come mid-lease, early termination penalties (often 2 months' rent) add to the burden. The SCRA (Servicemembers Civil Relief Act) may protect you from some lease penalties, but not all landlords comply willingly.
Vehicle & Travel Costs
Fuel, tolls, hotels en route, meals above per diem, oil changes, and tire wear often exceed the MALT reimbursement. For OCONUS moves, shipping a second vehicle, purchasing a car at your new location, or international license fees add up fast.
Spouse Employment Gap
Military spouses lose an average of $10,000–$15,000 in income per PCS due to job transitions. Factor in the time to find a new job, re-license in a new state (for licensed professions), or set up a remote work arrangement. This is often the single largest hidden cost of a PCS.
PPM/DITY Move Option
What is a PPM?
A Personally Procured Move (PPM, formerly DITY) pays you 100% of what the government would have paid a commercial moving company to transport your authorized weight. If you move your belongings for less, you keep the difference as taxable income. Many families earn $1,000–$5,000 or more, especially on shorter moves.
PPM Tips
- Weigh your vehicle before and after loading — empty and loaded weight tickets are required.
- Keep all receipts (truck rental, fuel, packing materials) to deduct expenses from taxable PPM income.
- You can do a partial PPM alongside a government-arranged HHG shipment.
- File your PPM claim within 45 days of delivery for fastest reimbursement.
JTR References
2026 Rates Quick Reference
MALT
$0.205/mi
Per Diem (Member)
$163/day
Per Diem (Dep.)
$122/day
DLA (E1-E6 w/dep)
$2,851
DLA (O4-O6 w/dep)
$4,195
TLE Max Days
10
Travel Day
350 mi/day
Disclaimer
This tool provides estimates based on 2026 JTR and DTMO rates. Actual entitlements depend on your specific orders, duty station, and current regulations. Always consult your installation's transportation office or finance office for official calculations. MilSpouses is not affiliated with the Department of Defense.
