What is TLA?

Facing your first PCS on military orders can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you’re moving OCONUS.

Figuring out the logistics of where you are going to stay, how much you can afford, and what the military will do to help can be stressful.  We are here to take the stress out of your PCS and explain the basics of TLA. 

P.S. Not sure what OCONUS or any other military acronyms mean? Check out our post explaining the 15 PCS terms you NEED to know!

What does TLA stand for?

To start, TLA stands for Temporary Lodging Allowance. This is a benefit provided to military service members when PCSing that helps with the cost of lodging while looking for a home at your new duty station.  One thing to note, this is not a payment you receive upfront.  You will need to pay for your hotel stay and the military will reimburse you up to a certain amount. 

TLA: Where to Start?

TLA Per Diem Allotment

First, it’s important to note that the specifics on TLA vary by duty station. Depending on where you’re moving to and from, it will determine up to how many days you can get reimbursed to and the daily amount you can get reimbursed up to (per diem allotment).

Check out this link to find out your TLA and Per Diem allotment. 

TLA Certificate of Non-Availability

This is IMPORTANT and something a lot of people are not aware of.  When reserving a hotel, you must first check with your branch’s Temporary Lodging Facility to see if they have availability on the dates you need reserved.  If they do, you will need to stay there upon arrival to your new duty station. 

If they DO NOT have availability then they will provide you with a ‘Certificate of Non-Availability’ (if they don’t offer it up front, then request for them to provide you with one).

Remember, this certificate should be provided to the housing office so you can receive your TLA reimbursement.  Without this certificate, you are not guaranteed to receive reimbursement. 

TLA-Approved Hotels

You will also need to ensure that you are staying at a TLA-approved hotel if base lodging is not available.  A list of all TLA approved hotels in O’ahu can be found here.

Interested in skipping the hotel stay completely? Contact Us to learn about your housing options and how you can secure housing before arriving at your next duty station!