Paperwork Checklist

• Military Orders and Identification: Make sure you know what papers you need to bring with you and which will be forwarded to your next duty station.



• Vehicle Information: Include title or lien papers, lease agreements, inspection papers, vehicle registration, driver’s licenses, and insurance paperwork.



• Personal Family and Medical Information: Include marriage license or divorce decree (if applicable), birth certificates, adoption papers, passports, and medical and dental records.



• School Information: Include school and university records, immunizations, and any certificates of completion or diplomas.



• Legal Paperwork: Include a copy of all wills, powers of attorney for finances and health care, and trusts. (Leave the original will with the executor or a trusted friend or adviser. Never travel with the original will and never place it in a safe deposit box where it may be difficult to retrieve.)



• Pet Paperwork: Include veterinary records, licensing documentation, and pedigree papers.



• Financial Paperwork: Include bank or brokerage firm account information, tax information, and records of any public assistance received, such as Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits.



• Moving Receipts: Keep all receipts related to your move. Put them in a central place, such as a separate file folder or even a shoe box. You’ll need these receipts to qualify for reimbursements or tax deductions.




Managing Your Military Travel Card

When you receive PCS orders, you probably will be issued a military travel card. This card—similar to a credit card—comes in handy when paying for moving expenses, but it also must be used wisely to avoid running up extra expenses. Follow these steps to manage your travel card:

• Use your card only for authorized move-related purchases. Pay for personal items with your own moving fund.



• Keep the receipts for any items purchased with the travel card. You will need this paperwork when filing for your reimbursement check.



• File for reimbursement promptly so the money will be there when the travel card bill arrives.

If you have any questions about how the military travel card works, ask your chain of command or travel card monitor.