Military housing is a big deal for service members and their families.
It’s a place to call home while serving our country.
The process of signing up might seem tricky at first, but it’s actually pretty straightforward.
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To sign up for military housing, you need to contact your base’s housing office and get on their waitlist. The housing office will give you all the info you need about what’s available and how long you might have to wait.
They’ll also help you figure out if you’re eligible for on-base housing or if you should look for a place off-base.
Getting military housing can take some time, so it’s smart to start early.
You can often join the waitlist before you arrive at your new duty station.
This way, you’re already in line when you get there.
While you wait, the housing office can help you find a temporary place to stay.
Key Takeaways
- Contact your base’s housing office to start the sign-up process
- You can join the housing waitlist before arriving at your new base
- Military housing offices offer help finding both on-base and off-base options
Understanding Military Housing Options
Military families have several housing choices.
These options vary in location, management, and duration.
Each type has its own pros and cons.
On-Base vs. Off-Base Housing
On-base housing puts service members close to work and military facilities.
It often includes utilities and may have shorter wait times. Military installations typically offer family-friendly neighborhoods and increased security.
Off-base housing gives more choice in home styles and locations.
It can be a good fit for those who want to live in the local community.
Families might find better schools or job options for spouses off-base.
Pros of On-Base:
- Short commute
- Access to base amenities
- Strong military community
Pros of Off-Base:
- More housing options
- Potential to build equity if buying
- Civilian neighborhood experience
Privatized vs. Government-Operated Housing
Privatized military housing is run by private companies.
These firms build, manage, and maintain the homes.
They often offer modern amenities and responsive maintenance.
Government-operated housing is managed directly by the military.
It may have stricter rules but can feel more connected to military life.
Both types usually have similar eligibility rules. Waiting lists can vary, so it’s smart to apply early.
Temporary and Permanent Housing
Temporary housing helps during moves or short assignments.
Options include:
- On-base lodging
- Extended stay hotels
- Short-term rentals
Permanent housing is for longer stays. Service members can choose from:
- Base housing
- Buying a home
- Long-term rentals
The choice often depends on assignment length and family needs.
Some prefer the stability of owning, while others like the flexibility of renting.
The Process of Applying for Military Housing
Getting military housing takes a few steps.
Service members need to know the rules, paperwork, and what to expect when they move in.
Eligibility and Application
To apply for military housing, service members must meet certain rules.
They need to be on active duty and have dependents.
The first step is filling out an application form.
Service members can apply in person, by phone, or online.
They’ll need to give some papers:
- Orders
- Leave and Earnings Statement
- Family info
- Pets details (if any)
Once they turn in the application, they get put on a waiting list.
The wait can be short or long, depending on where they’re stationed.
Understanding Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
BAH is money the military gives for housing costs.
It changes based on:
- Rank
- If they have dependents
- Where they’re stationed
When living in military housing, service members usually give up their whole BAH.
But this covers rent and most utilities.
It’s a trade-off that can save money in pricey areas.
They should check their BAH rate online.
It helps them decide between on-base and off-base housing.
Considering Special Needs and Accommodations
Families with special needs should speak up early.
The military has programs to help.
They might need a specific type of house or to be near certain services.
Steps to take:
- Enroll in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)
- Tell the housing office about special needs
- Ask about ADA-compliant homes if needed
Some bases have homes ready for families with special needs.
Others may need to make changes to a regular house.
Moving In: What to Expect
Once a home is ready, families get a move-in date. On-base housing often comes with some perks:
- Basic furniture (in some places)
- Maintenance help
- Community events
Before moving in, families should:
- Plan their PCS move
- Set up utilities not covered by BAH
- Schedule a walk-through of the home
They’ll sign a lease and get keys on move-in day.
It’s smart to take photos of the home’s condition when they arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Military housing offers various options for service members and their families.
The application process, eligibility, and allowances can vary based on factors like branch, rank, and location.
What’s the process for applying to Army base housing?
To apply for Army base housing, contact the installation housing office.
They’ll provide info and an application form.
You’ll need to submit paperwork and wait for approval.
The wait time depends on availability.
Some bases have wait lists, while others may have immediate openings.
Can married couples get special housing on an Army base?
Yes, married couples can get family housing on Army bases.
These homes are usually larger than single soldier quarters.
Availability varies by location.
Couples may need to meet certain criteria, like having command sponsorship for overseas assignments.
What options are available for military housing off the base?
Off-base housing options include renting or buying homes in nearby communities.
The military provides housing allowances to help cover costs.
Some areas have military-approved rental listings.
These homes meet safety and quality standards set by the military.
How does the military housing rental program work?
The military housing rental program helps service members find safe, affordable homes off-base.
Housing offices provide lists of approved rentals.
They also offer help with leases and can mediate landlord disputes.
The program aims to ensure fair treatment for military tenants.
Are families eligible for military-provided housing?
Yes, families are often eligible for military housing.
This includes spouses and dependent children.
Single parents with custody are also eligible.
Eligibility can depend on factors like rank and duty station.
Some bases have waiting lists for family housing.
What kind of housing allowance can you expect from the military?
The military offers Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) in the U.S. and Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA) for international posts.
These allowances vary based on location, rank, and dependent status.
They’re meant to cover most housing costs, including rent and utilities.