Below we address the ways authorized and ordered departures impact Service members, civilian employees, and their dependents during a PCS.
What Happens if You're in the Middle of a PCS?
If you have already departed from your old permanent duty station as part of a PCS, here are the different scenarios you might encounter:
- Ordered to Return to Your Old Duty Station: If you are ordered to temporarily return to your previous duty station, you may be authorized per diem for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses while you wait for transportation. Your new duty station will determine if you are considered "awaiting transportation" or if you will be given temporary duty orders.
- Ordered to a Port of Departure: If you are directed to remain at a port of departure until transportation to your new duty station is available, you may be authorized per diem for your expenses.
- Ordered to an Alternate Location: If you are sent to an alternate location to await transportation, you may also be authorized per diem.
In all of these situations, it's crucial to stay in contact with your new duty station for guidance.
Are Dependents Eligible for Safe Haven Allowances?
Generally, if you have already detached from your old duty station for a PCS, your dependents are not eligible for safe haven allowances. The exception to this is if your new duty station is in a country under an authorized or ordered departure that has implemented a "Stop Forward Movement" order. However, your dependents may receive per diem if they are officially in an "awaiting transportation" status.
For additional information on how a PCS is affected by an evacuation, consult the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR), Section 0539, and download answers to frequently asked questions related to evacuations.