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Taking command of your move means knowing where to turn for support. Relocation assistance professionals can help families plan, address questions and provide access to resources related to moving. Check in with your installation’s Military and Family Support Center for services offered through the Relocation Assistance Program or other resources that may be of benefit.
Workshops and moving tools
The program provides support to service members and their families as they make a permanent change of station, or PCS, move. Relocation assistance professionals are part of families’ network of support. They offer counseling, planning assistance, referrals and education on how to minimize the stress and maximize the benefits of a move.
Your current and new installations likely offer several classes and tools to help you master your move and embrace your new home. These offerings often include pre-departure briefings – sometimes called "Smooth Move" classes – as well as newcomer orientations, information on child care, employment for spouses, and various workshops.
The Relocation Assistance Program office also can connect you with the installation's loan closet (varies by installation) which can provide you with household essentials until your own goods catch up with your move.
One-on-one help
Nothing's better than one-on-one assistance from an expert. It can be especially helpful if this is your first PCS move, first overseas move, if you have a special circumstance or need to set a budget. Let the experts with the Relocation Assistance Program walk you through the process and connect you to moving resources.
Participate in the sponsorship program, where you benefit from a sponsor who knows the lay of the land, can answer questions and help you get settled in quickly so you can begin exploring and getting your feet wet. If this isn’t your first PCS, consider becoming a sponsor yourself.
Individual circumstances
Foreign-born spouses: Whether you’re a newlywed or moving for the first time since tying the knot, the Relocation Assistance Program can help you and your spouse with classes and referrals about immigration and naturalization processes. Relocation service providers can also help you find English language programs, translation services and advice on how to get around the local area. Learn more about support for foreign-born spouses.
Special needs: If you have a child or family member enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program, you know how important it is to find the right support for your family on your new installation. The Relocation Assistance Program can help ensure you have the information and resources you need – before you arrive.
Your final military move: Your last move should be your easiest, right? For most service members leaving the military, either at retirement or at the end of active service separation, a final move at government expense is authorized. You may also be entitled to other benefits including storage of household goods, travel allowances and a per diem – but benefits can vary by service branch. The Relocation Assistance Program can help you and your family complete all the required tasks and paperwork to take full advantage of the available resources.
Emergency financial assistance: A move can sometimes put you in a tight financial spot. Relocation service providers can connect you with the Personal Financial Management Program on your installation or refer you to organizations that offer emergency financial assistance.
No matter where you're headed, the Relocation Assistance Program can help with the heavy lifting. To find your nearest program and a relocation specialist, go to MilitaryINSTALLATIONS, then select Relocation Assistance Program and your installation from the drop-down menu. Lean on relocation assistance professionals so you can seize your adventure and master your move.
