How can I get an extension on the 14 days of Temporary Lodging Expense?

2023-08-31T23:25:19-04:00

My Wife just PCSd to my duty station of JBLM, and we have been staying in a hotel which will end up being 20 nights before our on-post housing move in date. I was in the barracks prior. Finance is saying only 14 days will be covered of hotel stay, and that the other 6 days will be out of pocket. Is there any way to get an extension on that 14 days? I don't know what the Army expects us to do: live in the barracks with my Wife and old roommate for 6 days or live on the streets.....

Response by SSG Dale London made Sep 1 at 2023 4:48 AM

2023-09-01T04:48:37-04:00

If I were you, I'd pop by Army Emergency Relief and apply for an emergency grant to cover the additional 6 days rent. Ask your PSG/1SG first but I expect they would endorse it.

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Sep 1 at 2023 11:04 AM

2023-09-01T11:04:30-04:00

If you have to get out of hotel try AF side of base, I see you are at a joint base. Back in the day when I was at Bragg, visiting quarters were much more expensive than Pope AFB, so I often stayed at Pope. Better service, too. Army had NAF civilians, so I guess they were more expensive. AF has airmen and airwomen that are in Force Support.

Response by COL Randall C. made Sep 1 at 2023 11:32 AM

2023-09-01T11:32:03-04:00

CPL Private RallyPoint Member, you're limited to 14 days unless you're in one of the locations that's been approved for a standing extension (JBLM isn't on the list) or if there is a housing shortage (>98% occupancy for govt controlled/owned housing and <3% vacancy of rental property).

On thing to consider - often military servicemembers move between PDS locations in a shorter amount of time than they are authorized for travel. While you may be focused on the TLE, make sure you are counting all your authorized days to have per diem (keep in mind that TLE and per diem can't be paid at the same time though).
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* DoD 7000.14-R - Joint Financial Regulation (aka "the financial bible for the military") - https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/documents/fmr/current/07a/07a_68.pdf

07a_68.pdf

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Sep 1 at 2023 11:33 AM

2023-09-01T11:33:06-04:00

Each situation outside of the norm is reviewed. If you have specific circumstance preventing you from moving on or off base then you can request a waiver.

What throws me is that you say that your wife just PCS to your location, I assume you were in barracks, that too is yet an option if space is available, you would have to separate until available. You will be asked why you did not seek quarters prior to her arrival with her orders in hand. These factors may override any waiver as you appear to have had opportunity.