A Permanent Change of Station (PCS, your next set of military move orders) comes with dozens of small costs that no single entitlement seems to cover, and that is exactly what the Dislocation Allowance is for. Dislocation Allowance, usually shortened to DLA, is a lump-sum payment meant to help offset the out-of-pocket expenses of relocating your household. This guide explains how DLA works, shows the 2026 rates by pay grade, and walks through how to make sure you claim it.
What Is Dislocation Allowance?
DLA is money paid to partially reimburse the miscellaneous costs of moving a household during a PCS. Think of the expenses that pop up around a move: rental deposits, utility hookups, cleaning supplies, curtains, and the hundred little things you buy to set up a new home. DLA is designed to soften those costs, according to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.
The key thing to understand is that DLA is separate from your other move money. It does not replace your travel pay, your dislocation-free household goods shipment, or a personally procured move payout. It is an additional lump sum, and the amount depends on your pay grade and whether you have dependents.
2026 DLA Rates by Pay Grade
The table below shows the primary DLA rates effective January 1, 2026, from the Defense Travel Management Office. Rates are higher for members with dependents because a larger household costs more to set up.
| Pay grade | Without dependents | With dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 | $1,870.58 | $3,548.02 |
| E-4 | $2,389.42 | $3,548.02 |
| E-5 | $2,389.42 | $3,548.02 |
| E-6 | $2,389.42 | $3,548.02 |
| E-7 | $2,468.19 | $3,551.31 |
| E-8 | $2,888.97 | $3,824.94 |
| E-9 | $3,147.54 | $4,149.51 |
| W-2 | $2,860.70 | $3,643.75 |
| O-1 | $2,273.82 | $3,085.23 |
| O-3 | $3,404.11 | $4,041.88 |
| O-5 | $4,583.51 | $5,542.06 |
| O-6 | $4,758.96 | $5,749.63 |
| O-7 and above | $5,187.33 | $6,385.58 |
2026 primary DLA rates for selected pay grades. Source: Defense Travel Management Office, effective January 1, 2026.
For most enlisted families, DLA lands between roughly $3,500 and $4,100 with dependents. For a junior officer or senior enlisted member, it can climb higher. These are the primary rates, which apply to a standard PCS. A separate, lower secondary rate applies in the specific situations where a member is paid a second DLA in the same period.
Who Qualifies for DLA?
DLA is paid for most PCS moves, but there are important exceptions. In general, you can expect DLA when you move between duty stations under orders with your household. You usually will not receive it for your very first move to your first duty station straight out of initial training, or for a final move when you separate from service without retiring, per the Defense Finance and Accounting Service. Retirees generally do qualify for their final move.
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Because the rules have exceptions, your finance office is the final word on whether your specific orders qualify. Ask during your out-processing so there are no surprises.
How to Claim Your DLA
DLA is not always automatic, so it pays to be proactive. Start by getting counseling at your transportation and finance offices as soon as you have orders. Keep a copy of your orders and any dependency paperwork, since your dependent status drives the higher rate. File your travel claim promptly after you arrive, and confirm that DLA appears on your settlement.
If money is tight before the move, ask your finance office whether you can receive DLA as an advance so the cash is available when you need it for deposits and setup. Our ultimate PCS binder guide shows a simple way to keep orders, receipts, and claim paperwork together so nothing falls through the cracks.
DLA Is One Piece of Your PCS Money
DLA works alongside your other entitlements, and families who understand the full picture leave less money on the table. Your move package also includes your PCS travel pay for mileage and per diem, your household goods weight allowance, and, if you move yourself, a personally procured move payout. Our overview of PCS entitlements and benefits ties them all together, and if a rushed timeline is your worry, see our guide to a short-notice PCS move.
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We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.Planning where to live at your next base? A VeteranPCS agent who has PCSed themselves can help you budget for housing before you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DLA taxable?
DLA is a taxable allowance, unlike some other move entitlements. Set aside a portion for taxes and ask a tax professional how it applies to your situation.
How much DLA will I get?
Your DLA is based on your pay grade and whether you have dependents. Using the 2026 table above, most enlisted families with dependents receive roughly $3,500 to $4,100, while officers and senior enlisted members receive more.
Do I get DLA every time I PCS?
You generally receive DLA for a standard PCS between duty stations. Your first move to your first duty station and a final separation move often do not qualify. Confirm with your finance office.
Is DLA the same as per diem or travel pay?
No. DLA is a separate lump sum for setup costs. Per diem and mileage are paid for the actual travel to your new duty station and are handled through your travel voucher.
The Bottom Line
Dislocation Allowance is real money set aside to help you absorb the hidden costs of a PCS, and it can total several thousand dollars for a family. Know your rate, confirm you qualify, and file your claim promptly so it shows up on your settlement. When you are ready to plan housing at your next duty station, connect with a VeteranPCS agent or lender who understands military moves. Share this guide with a friend who is gearing up to PCS.
This content is for informational purposes. Consult a professional for personal financial and tax decisions.
