Preparing for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) in the military can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. Moving to a new base or overseas location involves countless logistical challenges, not least of which is managing the mountain of paperwork that accompanies such a significant life event. Among the many documents you'll need to handle, here are 5 essential paperwork items for a 4473 Military PCS.
Orders and Amendments
The cornerstone of your PCS process starts with the actual orders. These official documents dictate the specifics of your move, including:
- Destination
- Reporting dates
- Household goods allowance
- Passenger travel entitlements
It's crucial to have multiple copies of your orders on hand. Here's why:
- Check for amendments: Sometimes orders are amended, either to change the destination or due to unforeseen circumstances. Stay alert for any updates.
- Distribution: You'll need to provide copies to various departments, like Transportation Management Office (TMO), housing office, and your new command.
đź“ť Note: Keep digital and hard copies to avoid misplacing this vital document.
DD Form 1746 - Application for Assignment to Housing
One of your first steps upon arrival should be securing housing. The DD Form 1746 helps you apply for government quarters or receive an advance payment if on-base housing is unavailable. Here are key points:
- Submit this form well in advance of your move.
- Include details like family size, pets, and any special needs for accommodations.
🏡 Note: Each base has different policies; contact your new base’s housing office to confirm specific requirements.
Join-Spouse or Co-Location Assignments
If you’re in a dual-military marriage, join-spouse or co-location assignments can be critical. These requests aim to keep couples together or at least close enough to commute. Here’s what you need:
- A join-spouse form completed by both spouses.
- Documentation showing current assignments and marriage certificate.
Be prepared for possible delays or denials as each branch has its own criteria.
Medical and Dental Records
Before you move:
- Ensure your medical and dental records are up to date.
- Get copies of important medical documents, especially if you or your dependents have ongoing medical issues.
The transfer of these records to your new installation's medical facilities is essential:
- Contact the Medical Records Department for guidance on transferring records.
- Establish contact with your new medical facility to ensure seamless healthcare continuity.
Travel and Expense Documents
The following documents pertain to your travel entitlements and reimbursement:
- DD Form 1351-2 (Travel Voucher): To claim travel expenses.
- Orders and Amendments: Provide clear, updated orders to support your travel voucher.
| Form | Purpose |
|---|---|
| DD Form 1351-2 | Travel and per diem reimbursements |
| Official Orders | Authorization for travel |
Fill these forms out accurately to avoid delays in reimbursement. If you're unsure, the installation's finance or travel office can assist.
Handling the PCS paperwork can be daunting, but staying organized is half the battle. Here's how you can make the process smoother:
- Keep documents together: Use folders or binders for each category (orders, housing, etc.).
- Maintain a PCS checklist: Track tasks like contacting medical facilities, submitting join-spouse requests, or filling out travel vouchers.
- Stay in communication: Regularly check with the necessary offices for updates and follow up if needed.
Wrapping up your move with all paperwork in order will set a positive tone for your new adventure. The process, although meticulous, ensures that your transition is as seamless as possible, letting you focus on settling into your new environment and continuing your military service.
What should I do if I lose my orders?
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Contact your current unit’s administrative office or your Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) immediately to get a replacement. Keep digital backups to avoid future losses.
Can I apply for housing before receiving my PCS orders?
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Typically, you’ll need to wait for your orders. However, for base-to-base transfers, contacting the housing office early can sometimes accelerate the process.
How do I ensure my medical records are transferred to the new base?
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Contact the Medical Records Department at your current base for guidance. They’ll provide the necessary forms or direct electronic transfer methods to your new installation’s medical facilities.
