Military families are no strangers to frequent moves. Permanent change of station orders can mean cardboard boxes and U-Haul trucks every several years. For each PCS, military families have the option of finding their own housing or moving into a military installation. The decision can depend on a number of factors, such as commute times, school districts and availability of housing.
If you are considering living on base for your next PCS, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Waiting for official orders
As Military Life explained, it's very important that you wait until you have received your official PCS order until signing a new lease – no matter how stressful this may seem. Though you will want to secure a home for your move, waiting until you are 100 percent certain of the location is the best advice – since you will likely already be dealing with leaving behind a security deposit. And while a military clause does exist in the event that you have PCS or deployment orders at least 90 days long, laws are different from state to state and a lot of military families end up facing a lease penalty fine or charge.
2. Ease of move in
Normally, renting a home can take a lot of work. First, you generally have to work with a broker – which also requires a fee – and tour a number of apartments until you find one you like. According to the Military Spouse, one of the benefits of renting on base is that that step is eliminated. In fact, all you really have to do is show up on the day of your move, get your house keys and sign the papers. Moreover, military families renting on base aren't responsible for providing first and last month's rent up front – another bonus.
Living on base removes a lot of steps traditionally included in the rental process.3. Services and resources
Another great thing about renting on base is all of the services that you are entitled to. As the She Knows blog explained, most bases provide free gyms and pools, travel offices, recreational centers and a number of other opportunities and resources. Not only do these services provide a welcomed convenience free of charge, but they can help keep little ones active and engaged as well. Keep in mind that all individuals living on base older than the age of 10 will need to have their issued military ID on them at all times to access these services.
4. A military community
Seasoned military families are well aware of the unique hardships and challenges faced in military life and sometimes, it can be difficult to share those thoughts and feelings with civilian friends and neighbors. On the other hand, when you live on base you are surrounded by service members, military kids and military spouses that understand because they are going through the same things as you, She Knows explained. Having that sense of community of people living similar ways of life can go a long way.
5. Basic allowance for housing
Service members are provided with basic allowance for housing, generally based on pay grade and location, to assist in their renting or living needs, Military Rates explained. Dependents can also impact the allowance you are given.
As Military Benefits explained, these figures will vary depending on region and market value. The median renter's insurance and cost of utilities will also come into play. As such, BAH can vary greatly depending on your unique situation. The best way to find out what you are eligible for is to schedule a meeting with your finance officer.
Use these considerations to decide if renting on base is right for you.
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