Effective Aug. 19, 2021, the Special Event Code for this assistance program has changed from “TLE/TLA Exception” to “Unexpected PCS Expenses Exception” to be more reflective of any “valid financial need” for unexpected PCS costs Soldiers and Families may experience that is beyond their control during this very turbulent PCS season.

Army Emergency Relief provides assistance to Soldiers and Families during a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) when their Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) entitlements expire.

DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE AFFECTED BY DELAYED OR CANCELLED MOVES?  

During a typical year, U.S. Transportation Command oversees 325 thousand household goods shipments. This year, of the 130 thousand moves scheduled so far, there have been 120 “turn-backs” because of labor constraints. Among the reasons for the delays is a nationwide labor shortage of packers and truck drivers during PCS season. These mover shortages coupled with delayed scheduling and cancellations during PCS season could cause a financial burden on some Soldiers and their Families when their Temporary Lodging entitlements expire. 

HOW DOES AER HELP? 

Army Emergency Relief now provides assistance to Soldiers and Families affected by canceled or delayed moves when their Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) entitlements expire. Assistance will be provided as a zero-interest loan in anticipation of cost reimbursement from the U.S. Army. Grants may be issued to meet valid needs. Exceptions may apply. Speak with your nearest AER officer to learn more. 

More on AER’s Financial Assistance for PCS.

WHO’S ELIGIBLE? 

• Soldiers on Active Duty and their Families. 
• Members of the Reserve Component of the Army (National Guard and Army Reserve under Title 10 S.C) on Active Guard and Reserve tours. 
• Members of the Reserve Component of the Army (National Guard and Army Reserve) activated with PCS Entitlements i.e., USASMA or the War College. 

HOW TO APPLY? 

Contact your local AER officer to learn more and apply here. If an emergency need arises and the local office is inaccessible or located further than 50 miles away, please contact the American Red Cross at 1-877-272-7337, select option 1 for AER assistance. For further questions, please email the AER Headquarters Assistance Department at assistance@aerhq.org. 

ARE YOU AN AER OFFICER? 

Click here to download the Official Unexpected PCS Expenses Exception (TLE/TLA/Other) Assistance Guidance.