Military PCS Cost & Entitlement Calculator
Calculating your PCS entitlements and expenses…
PCS Move Financial Summary
Total Estimated Reimbursement
| Entitlement | Amount |
|---|---|
| Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT) | $0 |
| Per Diem (Travel Days) | $0 |
| Dislocation Allowance (DLA) | $0 |
| Personally Procured Move (PPM) Incentive (if applicable) | $0 |
Important Information
These calculations are estimates. Actual entitlements may differ based on military branch rules, current rates, and allowances. Please consult your transportation or finance office for official guidance.
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can be one of the most challenging aspects of military life—logistics, timelines, and finances often pile up fast. That’s where the Military PCS Cost & Entitlement Calculator comes in. This smart, user-friendly online tool is designed to help active-duty service members and their families get accurate estimates for move-related reimbursements, allowances, and potential out-of-pocket expenses—all in one place.
Whether you’re moving from coast to coast or just a few hundred miles, the calculator gives you transparency and control over your PCS budget. Let’s walk you through how it works, why it matters, and how to make the most of it.
What Is the Military PCS Cost & Entitlement Calculator?
The Military PCS Cost & Entitlement Calculator is a comprehensive digital tool that estimates:
- Total reimbursement
- Dislocation Allowance (DLA)
- Per diem for travel days
- Mileage allowance (MALT)
- Personally Procured Move (PPM) incentive
- Weight limits and excess weight penalties
- Out-of-pocket expenses
This tool is based on current (2025) Department of Defense rates and entitlements. It helps service members assess how much of their moving expenses will be covered and what they might need to pay themselves.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use the PCS Calculator
Here’s how you can use the calculator in just a few minutes:
1. Enter Your Rank
Select your military rank from the dropdown list. This affects your weight allowance and DLA.
2. Indicate Dependents
Choose whether you’re moving with dependents. This impacts per diem and weight entitlement.
3. Enter ZIP Codes
Type in your origin and destination ZIP codes. These are used for distance reference and documentation purposes.
4. Enter Distance (in miles)
Specify the total mileage between your current duty station and the new one. This affects mileage reimbursement and travel days.
5. Input Household Goods Weight
Estimate the total weight of your belongings (in pounds). This determines if you’re within your allowable moving weight.
6. Add Estimated Moving Expenses
Input your anticipated moving costs, such as packing supplies, rental trucks, or fuel.
7. Select Your Move Date
Pick the official date of your PCS. This helps validate seasonal or date-specific allowances.
8. Click ‘Calculate’
Watch the animated progress bar as your PCS estimate is calculated.
9. Review Your Results
View a detailed financial summary, including reimbursement, DLA, per diem, and whether you’re exceeding your weight allowance.
10. Copy or Share Results
Use the Copy Results or Share Results buttons to save or send your estimate.
Practical Example: Moving from Fort Campbell, KY to Joint Base Lewis–McChord, WA
Let’s say you’re an E5 with dependents, moving 2,300 miles, with 10,000 lbs of household goods, and an estimated $4,000 in moving costs.
Here’s what your estimate might look like:
- MALT: $506.00
- Per Diem: $516.00
- DLA: $2,300.00
- PPM Incentive: $8,550.00
- Total Reimbursement: $11,872.00
- Out-of-Pocket: $0 (since costs are below reimbursement)
- Weight Allowance: 9,000 lbs
- Weight Over Allowance: 1,000 lbs (may incur penalties)
Even with the overweight, the generous PPM incentive covers the gap. This example illustrates how beneficial proper planning can be.
Features and Benefits
✅ Accurate Calculations Based on 2025 Rates
Calculations reflect current mileage, DLA, per diem, and weight guidelines from the DoD.
✅ User-Friendly Design
Simple dropdowns and input fields make this tool accessible for all users.
✅ Instant Estimates
Results appear in seconds with a visual progress bar to enhance the experience.
✅ Copy & Share Tools
Easily share estimates with your finance office, spouse, or moving company.
✅ Built-In Error Checks
Alerts help ensure all fields are filled out to prevent incomplete submissions.
Who Should Use This Calculator?
- Active-duty military members
- Military spouses planning PCS logistics
- Finance counselors and base relocation offices
- DoD civilian employees with PCS orders
Pro Tips for Using the Calculator
- Always round up distances to ensure accurate per diem days.
- Use estimated weights based on household size:
- 1–2 bedroom = 5,000–7,000 lbs
- 3–4 bedroom = 9,000–13,000 lbs
- Large family home = 14,000–18,000 lbs
- Keep receipts even if using the calculator for unofficial planning.
- Recalculate if any factors change (new orders, dependents added, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What does PCS stand for?
PCS stands for Permanent Change of Station, a military move from one duty station to another.
2. Is this calculator free to use?
Yes, the PCS Cost & Entitlement Calculator is completely free.
3. What is MALT?
MALT stands for Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation and is based on mileage.
4. How is MALT calculated?
MALT = distance (miles) × current MALT rate ($0.22 per mile for 2025).
5. What is the Dislocation Allowance (DLA)?
DLA helps offset expenses related to relocation. It’s based on rank.
6. Can I include dependents in the calculation?
Yes, select “Yes” under dependents to include their impact on per diem and allowances.
7. What if my weight exceeds the limit?
You may incur personal costs or need to downsize your shipment.
8. What is a PPM incentive?
If you move your goods yourself, you may receive up to 95% of what it would cost the government.
9. How many travel days will I get?
One day is allowed per 350 miles, rounded up, minimum of one day.
10. Can I update my estimate later?
Yes, simply re-enter new values and recalculate.
11. Will the calculator file paperwork for me?
No. It’s for planning purposes only. Official claims go through your base.
12. What format are the results in?
You’ll see a detailed breakdown with estimated dollar amounts and allowances.
13. Can I use this tool for overseas PCS?
This version is designed for CONUS (continental U.S.) moves.
14. Are rates based on 2025 DoD tables?
Yes, it uses simplified 2025 rates for DLA, MALT, and per diem.
15. What happens if I leave a field blank?
You’ll be prompted to fill in all required fields before continuing.
16. What is the maximum household weight allowed?
Up to 20,000 lbs is accepted in the tool; official limits vary by rank.
17. Does it consider seasonal rate differences?
No, this version uses annual flat rates.
18. Can I share the results with my spouse?
Yes, use the “Share Results” button to send them by email or message.
19. How do I know if the weight estimate is accurate?
You can use a moving weight estimator or check prior PCS records.
20. Who can I contact for official move approval?
Speak to your base’s Transportation or Finance Office for exact entitlements.
Conclusion
The Military PCS Cost & Entitlement Calculator is your go-to resource for understanding what your move will cost and how much support you’ll receive. By equipping yourself with this knowledge, you reduce surprises, avoid penalties, and make smarter logistical decisions for you and your family.
Whether you’re a first-time mover or a seasoned service member, using this tool before your PCS ensures you’re financially prepared every step of the way.