How to Apply for Dislocation Allowance
Navigate the Dislocation Allowance process with ease. This guide simplifies understanding eligibility, preparing claims, and ensuring timely payment for military moves.
Dislocation Allowance (DLA) provides financial support to military service members and their families during household relocations. This allowance helps offset un-reimbursed costs associated with a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or other authorized moves. DLA eases the financial burden of setting up a new home, allowing military personnel to focus on new duties.
Understanding Dislocation Allowance Eligibility
Dislocation Allowance (DLA) is authorized for active duty service members relocating their household due to official PCS orders. This includes moving dependents to or from a permanent duty station, or being ordered to occupy or vacate government quarters. Eligibility applies if a service member receives a housing allowance or is E-5 and above, and not occupying single barracks-style government housing. For junior military personnel in ranks E-1 through E-4, DLA is not granted if they are assigned to single barracks housing, unless they have dependents moving with them.
Different types of DLA address various circumstances. Primary DLA covers standard PCS moves. Secondary DLA may be authorized if PCS orders are amended, modified, or canceled after a move has begun, helping cover additional costs. Partial DLA is a one-time payment for specific situations, such as moving into or out of base housing without a full PCS, or due to base realignment and closure. Service members are limited to one DLA payment per fiscal year.
Certain situations disqualify a service member from receiving DLA. This includes a first PCS move without dependents, or moves related to separation or retirement. Service members ordered to active duty without dependents are not authorized DLA. Dual military couples should consult the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) for specific guidance regarding their DLA eligibility.
Preparing Your Dislocation Allowance Application
Applying for Dislocation Allowance involves completing specific forms and gathering documentation. The primary form for claiming DLA is DD Form 1351-2, “Travel Voucher or Subvoucher,” or its equivalent within an online travel system. This form is available from a local military finance office, official service-specific travel websites, or online finance portals. Ensure you have access to the most current version of the form or online system before initiating the claim.
To complete the DLA section of the travel voucher, several pieces of information are required. You will need a copy of your official Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. Information regarding your dependent status and their travel details is essential, as DLA rates vary based on whether you have dependents and if they are moving with you. If you request an advance of your DLA, you might receive up to 80% of the estimated payment upfront.
When filling out the form, ensure all relevant sections pertaining to DLA are completed with accurate dates and details, such as the effective date of your PCS orders. If you are not moving into government-provided housing, you will need to provide your new home address. If permanent housing is not yet secured, a statement confirming your intent to occupy a personal residence may be required. Retaining copies of your orders and any supporting documentation is prudent.
Submitting Your Dislocation Allowance Claim
Once your Dislocation Allowance application is prepared, submit it through the appropriate channels. The most common method is via the Defense Travel System (DTS), an online platform for travel claims. Within DTS, after all required information has been entered and verified, navigate to a final review page and select “Submit” or “Sign and Submit” to send your claim for processing.
Alternatively, you may submit a physical DD Form 1351-2 directly to your local finance office. This involves hand-delivering the completed form along with copies of your PCS orders and any supporting documentation. Some finance offices may accept mailed submissions; confirm the correct mailing address and consider sending documents via a trackable mail service.
Always make and retain copies of your entire application package, including the completed form, supporting documents, and any confirmation receipts or tracking numbers. This record serves as proof of submission and can be valuable if any questions or discrepancies arise. Submit your paperwork to the installation’s financial office around two weeks before moving, or after your move is complete.
What Happens After You Apply
After submitting your Dislocation Allowance claim, the processing timeline varies. Some claims may process within 7-10 business days after approval. It is common for DLA payments to be issued around 30 days after the paperwork is filed and processed by the installation’s finance office. Advanced DLA requests might process faster. However, factors such as claim volume, submission completeness, and specific finance office procedures can influence the exact duration.
The allowance is disbursed as a single lump sum, via direct deposit to the military member’s designated bank account. To check your claim status, access online finance portals such as MyPay or DTS, which provide updates on payment processing. Contacting your local finance office directly can also provide status updates and address concerns.
Delays may occur or additional information might be requested if there are discrepancies in your paperwork or if your orders change. If your DLA request is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Contact your local finance office to understand the reason for denial and work with your chain of command or legal services to submit supporting documents for an appeal. DLA is intended to partially reimburse relocation expenses and may not cover all costs incurred during a move.