Compare BAH at two bases

What changes when you PCS

Your basic pay and BAS follow you everywhere, so the only regular pay that changes with a move inside the US is BAH. It switches to the new duty station's rate on the day you report. If the new area is more expensive, your total pay goes up; if it is cheaper, it goes down, but rate protection does not carry over from the old base.

The bigger costs of a move are often rent deposits and the gap between your BAH and actual rent. Check listings near the new base before you sign anything, and look at the moving allowances you are owed: dislocation allowance, mileage and per diem. The PCS moving calculator adds them up for your grade.

Common questions

When does my BAH change after a PCS? On the date you sign in at the new duty station. During travel you keep the old rate.

What if my family stays behind? You can sometimes keep BAH for the old location, for example when a move is unaccompanied or the family is waiting for school to finish. Ask your finance office before you move.