Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 6/10/2010

Question
Hi. My Name is SFC Gonzalez. I am currently schedule to PCS to Farrell, PA. I am doing all the transportation paperwork. I a not moving to a base but to an Army bldg. I was not able to find a house in Farrell, PA and I found one in Lowellville, OH around 20 miles away from my duty station. Transportation office called me and told me that since I am not moving to the same place the orders showed, then, there is the possibility that I will have to pay the difference but I will not know that until the move has been completed. I was wondering if you know anything about this? DO you know how far can I move from my duty station on a PCS move without having to pay (miles wise)? How can I find out if I have to pay? Thanks for your time and help.

Answer
Dear Jonathan --

You can move to within a reasonable commuting distance of your duty station, if there is no on-base housing.  Transportation is not telling you the correct information because they are simply basing their comment on the fact you are working in PA and moving to OH.  Twenty-miles is well within your reasonable commute distance.

Your new unit should help you ensure you get your full PCS allowances, even though you will be at a remote site.  If they cannot, go on local TDY to the nearest base, and ask the milpo there to assist you either by adding an addendum to your orders, or by providing you other documentation to support the location of your domicile.

Please write back, if you have other questions.  Good luck to you, thank you for your service.