Can You Say PCS Split Move?

If this isn’t your first rodeo when it comes to PCSing, then you know that one of the greatest challenges is that your world—and that of any kids, pets, jobs, schools, etc.—is solely at the mercy of Uncle Sam. The military says jump and you say, “How high and by what day?” And then you spend the time between the notice and your expected date at your new duty station dealing with a million logistics to uproot your current life and replant yourselves elsewhere.

Not necessarily anymore. Say hello to the Split PCS Move, thanks to a new Navy policy announced last month. Do you get to say, “Nah, not feeling the move just yet; talk to me in a few months”? Nope, not exactly. But if your situation meets certain criteria, you now have the Navy’s blessing to move ahead or stay behind for up to six months during your Sailor’s change of duty station.

Do you have a job in your current location that you need time to button up? Or a new job already in the works at your future location? You’re eligible.

 

Do you think that staring mindlessly at all you still have left to pack will somehow make you feel more motivated to start packing it with an extra few months’ time? Not so much.

Do you have schooling that’s just a few months from winding down, either for you or your children? You’re eligible.

Are you salty about the fact that there isn’t a Starbucks in your future hometown and you’re hoping to extend your caffeination streak? Sorry, ya got nothing.

Are you caring for an immediate family member with a chronic or long-term illness? Or are you the caregiver for a special needs child? This policy applies to you.

Are you caring too little about an imminent move to get your butt in gear? We feel your pain and send you warm fuzzies, but no relief with this policy.

The new policy, while not a blanket “don’t-feel-like-moving-just-yet” policy, acknowledges that there are certain circumstances where a Split PCS Move might mitigate undue stress and strain on your military family. And that’s a great place to start.

Keep in mind, whether you stay behind or move ahead of your Sailor, you’re still looking at only one housing allowance, so you’ll need to weigh your financial situation before you plan the timing of your PCS. And you’ll need to submit a formal request for advanced or delayed travel to Navy Personnel Command, too.

MILLIE is an online community and digital marketplace that connects members of the military and their families with specialized knowledge and trusted resource providers to alleviate the stress of PCS’ing. Check out MILLIE’s Installation Guides, their network of Veteran and military spouse real estate agents, and MILLIE Scouts, their on-demand task service comprised of military spouses.