Understanding Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE)
By Samantha Baxley | Published March, 2024 | 3 Minute Read
Embarking on a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move brings a slew of logistical challenges, one of which is securing temporary lodging during the transition. To ease this aspect of your move, the Department of Defense offers Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) reimbursement. This allowance is designed to partially cover lodging and meal expenses incurred by service members and their dependents while occupying temporary lodging in the Continental United States (CONUS) in association with a PCS move.
Eligibility
- TLE is only authorized in the vicinity of the old/new Permanent Duty Station (PDS); it is not intended for house-hunting purposes.
- For a PCS within CONUS, TLE reimbursement is limited to 14 days.
- Moving from a duty station Out of the Continental United States (OCONUS) to CONUS, you're entitled to up to 14 days of TLE.
- When the PCS move is to an OCONUS location, TLE reimbursement is capped at 7 days. It's important to note that lodging at OCONUS locations might qualify for reimbursement under Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) instead.
Determining Your Entitlement
Your TLE entitlement is calculated by multiplying the applicable percentage (based on the number of dependents occupying temporary quarters) by the locality's lodging and Meals & Incidental Expenses (M&IE) rates. Here's a quick guide:
- Member or one dependent: 65%* of the applicable rates.
- Member and one dependent, or two dependents only: 100%.
- Add 35% for each additional dependent age 12 and over.
- Add 25% for each additional dependent under age 12.
- Lodging for members without dependents during approved TLE extension periods is reimbursed at 100%. Per Diem remains at 65%.
Extensions
In locations with approved TLE extensions, service members may be eligible for additional days of TLE allowance, subject to the aggressive pursuit of permanent housing. Extended TLE, authorized in 10-day increments (up to a maximum of 60 total TLE days), may only be granted to prevent undue financial hardship.
Requirements
To claim your TLE reimbursement, ensure you have the following documents:
- A completed and signed DD1351-2 form by the reviewing official.
- Your PCS travel orders.
- An itemized zero-balance lodging receipt.
TLE provides crucial financial relief during the PCS process, allowing you to focus on settling into your new duty station with fewer financial worries. As always, Truevana is here to support military families like yours throughout every step of your PCS journey. If you have questions or need assistance with your move, our team of experts and extensive network of partners are ready to help.
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