PCS Entitlements Calculator
Estimate your potential Permanent Change of Station (PCS) entitlements including Dislocation Allowance (DLA), Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE), and Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT). Please note that rates are subject to change and this calculator provides estimates based on common scenarios and example rates.
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) Details
Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT) Details
Estimated PCS Entitlements:
Dislocation Allowance (DLA): $${dlaAmount.toFixed(2)} Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE): $${tleAmount.toFixed(2)} Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT): $${maltAmount.toFixed(2)} Total Estimated Entitlements: $${totalEntitlements.toFixed(2)} These are estimates based on the provided inputs and example rates. Actual entitlements may vary based on official regulations, specific orders, and current per diem rates. Consult your local finance office or transportation office for precise figures. `; } /* Basic Styling for the calculator */ .pcs-calculator-container { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; box-shadow: 0 2px 4px rgba(0,0,0,0.1); max-width: 700px; margin: 20px auto; } .pcs-calculator-container h2, .pcs-calculator-container h3 { color: #333; text-align: center; margin-bottom: 15px; } .pcs-calculator-container p { color: #555; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 15px; } .calculator-input-group { margin-bottom: 15px; display: flex; flex-direction: column; } .calculator-input-group label { margin-bottom: 5px; font-weight: bold; color: #444; } .calculator-input-group input[type="number"], .calculator-input-group select { padding: 10px; border: 1px solid #ddd; border-radius: 4px; font-size: 16px; width: 100%; box-sizing: border-box; /* Include padding in width */ } .calculator-input-group input[type="radio"] { margin-right: 5px; } .calculator-input-group input[type="radio"] + label { font-weight: normal; margin-right: 15px; } button { background-color: #007bff; color: white; padding: 12px 20px; border: none; border-radius: 4px; cursor: pointer; font-size: 18px; width: 100%; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 20px; } button:hover { background-color: #0056b3; } .calculator-result { margin-top: 30px; padding: 20px; background-color: #e9f7ef; border: 1px solid #d4edda; border-radius: 8px; color: #155724; } .calculator-result h3 { color: #155724; margin-top: 0; text-align: left; } .calculator-result p { margin-bottom: 8px; font-size: 1.1em; } .calculator-result p strong { color: #0a3622; } .calculator-result .disclaimer { font-size: 0.9em; color: #6c757d; margin-top: 15px; }Understanding Your PCS Entitlements
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is a significant event for service members and their families. Understanding the various entitlements you may receive can help alleviate financial stress and ensure a smoother transition. This calculator helps you estimate some of the most common financial entitlements associated with a PCS move.
What are PCS Entitlements?
PCS entitlements are financial allowances and reimbursements provided by the government to cover expenses incurred during a military move. These entitlements are designed to offset the costs of relocating your household, travel, and temporary living expenses. They are not meant to be a profit, but rather to ensure you are not out-of-pocket for necessary moving expenses.
Key Entitlements Explained:
1. Dislocation Allowance (DLA)
The Dislocation Allowance (DLA) is a flat-rate payment designed to partially reimburse service members for the expenses incurred in relocating their household. This includes costs like utility connection fees, deposits, and other miscellaneous expenses associated with setting up a new home. DLA rates vary based on your rank and whether you have dependents. It is typically paid once per PCS move.
- Factors Affecting DLA: Your pay grade (rank) and dependency status (with or without dependents).
- Example: An E-6 with dependents might receive a higher DLA than an E-3 without dependents, reflecting the greater costs associated with moving a family.
2. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE)
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) is an allowance intended to partially offset the cost of lodging and meals when a service member and their family are in temporary housing in conjunction with a PCS move. This typically occurs when you're waiting for your household goods to arrive at your new duty station or when you've moved out of your old residence and are awaiting departure. TLE is generally authorized for up to 10 days for moves within the Continental United States (CONUS) and up to 5 days for moves to or from Outside the Continental United States (OCONUS).
- Factors Affecting TLE: The number of authorized days, the local per diem rate (which includes lodging and M&IE – Meals and Incidental Expenses), and the number of family members. The per diem is paid at varying percentages for each family member.
- Example: A family of four staying in temporary lodging for 7 days in an area with a daily per diem of $200 would receive a portion of that per diem for each family member for each day, up to the authorized limit.
3. Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT)
Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT) is a reimbursement for the use of a privately owned vehicle (POV) during a PCS move. Instead of the government paying for commercial transportation (like flights), you are compensated for driving your own vehicle(s). MALT is calculated based on the official mileage between your old and new duty stations and a set rate per mile.
- Factors Affecting MALT: The total authorized mileage for your move and the number of vehicles authorized (typically up to two).
- Example: If your PCS orders authorize you to drive 1,500 miles and you drive one vehicle, you would multiply 1,500 miles by the current MALT rate per mile. If you drive two vehicles, that amount would be doubled.
How to Use the Calculator:
- Select Your Rank and Dependency Status: Choose the option that accurately reflects your current situation.
- Enter TLE Details: Input the number of days you anticipate needing temporary lodging (up to the CONUS maximum of 10 days), the number of adults and children in your family, and an estimated daily per diem rate for your temporary lodging location. You can find current per diem rates on the GSA website (for CONUS) or the DoD Per Diem, Travel and Transportation Allowance Committee website (for OCONUS).
- Enter MALT Details: Provide the total estimated driving miles for your PCS move and the number of vehicles you plan to drive.
- Click "Calculate Entitlements": The calculator will then provide an estimated breakdown of your DLA, TLE, and MALT, along with a total estimated entitlement.
Important Considerations:
- Rates Change: DLA, MALT, and per diem rates are updated periodically, usually annually. The rates used in this calculator are examples and may not reflect the most current figures.
- Official Orders are Key: Your actual entitlements are determined by your official PCS orders and current regulations. Always refer to your orders and consult with your local finance or transportation office for the most accurate information.
- Other Entitlements: This calculator covers DLA, TLE, and MALT. Other entitlements like Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY) incentives, overseas housing allowance (OHA), or cost of living allowance (COLA) are more complex and not included here.
- Documentation: Keep meticulous records of all your expenses, receipts, and travel logs during your PCS move. This documentation is crucial for accurate reimbursement.
This calculator is a helpful tool for planning, but it should not replace official guidance from your military finance or transportation office. Always seek professional advice for your specific PCS situation.