What do military families get in Germany? Active duty vs GS civilian vs contractor vs NAF
Quick answer
Your employment status, orders and individual authorization determine which PCS benefits apply. Military TLA/OHA and civilian TQSA/LQA use different rules. NAF employees need a NAF HR determination; contractors should confirm their employer’s arrangements. SOFA privileges do not establish every allowance.
| Status | Who to ask |
|---|---|
| Service member | Servicing finance / housing |
| GS / DoDEA civilian | Civilian HR / agency travel office |
| NAF employee | NAF HR |
| Contractor | Employer / contract administrator |
Military and civilian claims are different
Military TLA and OHA have separate DoD rules. Civilian temporary-lodging and housing allowances use civilian rules and agency decisions. Ask your servicing office to identify the program on your orders before you book or sign.
NAF employees
Ask NAF HR whether your appointment includes LQA and other relocation support. The DCPAS NAF personnel handbook records LQA entitlement, but it does not approve an individual employee’s claim.
Contractors
Ask your employer which travel, housing, healthcare and relocation costs your contract covers. Do not treat a government employee’s allowance approval as your own.
Your next step
Take your orders or appointment letter to finance, civilian HR, NAF HR or your employer. Ask separately about lodging, permanent housing, shipment and healthcare, and keep the written answers.
Frequently asked
- Does SOFA status guarantee housing allowances?
- Do not use SOFA status as an allowance approval. Ask the office responsible for the specific program.
- Can I use another family’s approved amount?
- No. Request a determination for your own orders, household and claim dates.
Last recorded review: 2026-07-11. Requirements can change; confirm with the linked source or responsible office. Boris is independent of the DoD.
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