Military Housing - Military Times

Allowances: Advance pay

Service members with permanent change-of-station orders can receive advance pay and allowances with their commander’s approval. These include advances on basic pay and Basic Allowance for Housing. Members can receive up to three months of basic pay at either the old or new duty station.

Advance pay and housing allowances are repaid as paycheck deductions, normally beginning the month after the advance is drawn. With permission, repayment can be delayed up to three months.

Finance officials recommend asking for a minimum amount when requesting an advance for an overseas move. There is the potential for heavy losses due to exchange rate fluctuations, and the member is not compensated in the case of an advance.

Retiring and separating service members are not eligible for advance pay.