Understanding claims this PCS season

  • Published
  • By Capt. Ashley Finnegan
  • Assistant Staff Judge Advocate
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  This summer promises to be a very busy moving season for PCSing Airmen. Those moving can help alleviate any potential loss or damage to household goods by learning the rules under which household goods are moved and by preparing for a potential moving claim.

Airmen should take stock of what you own and its condition prior to your Transportation Service Provider stepping foot into your home.

Take digital photos or a video of high value items and family heirlooms, or consider keeping these items in your possession during the move.

Having a professional appraisal done on any antique furniture is also a good idea. The appraisal establishes the value of the item and can be used in the claims process to help establish any loss in value if the item is damaged during the move.

Unfortunately, damage does occur. If your belongings suffer damage, your property is covered under the provisions of the Full Replacement Value legislation. This means that TSPs are required to pay the full replacement value on any items missing or destroyed during your move or replace the item. TSPs are also required to repair any item that can be repaired.

Under the FRV program, you are required to file your claim directly against your TSP. This claim must be made within nine months of delivery of your household goods in order for you to receive FRV. If you miss the deadline, you can still file a claim up to two years from the delivery date, but you would receive only depreciated valuation. Most Airmen will be required to use the Defense Personal Property System for the claims process.

DPS can be accessed online at www.move.mil.  

If you are not happy with how your claim is proceeding, you can transfer your claim to the AFCSC at https://claims.jag.af.mil 30-days after filing against your TSP.

If you are negotiating with your TSP and would like someone within the Air Force to assist you, you can contact the AFCSC for support. Finally, if you receive an offer from your TSP that you believe is unfair, you can transfer the claim to the AFCSC. Typically, the AFCSC only pays the depreciated value. However, after paying your claim, the Air Force will file a FRV claim against the responsible TSP and may be able to pay you an additional award recovered from the TSP.

The AFCSC is available to assist Airmen through the claims process.

Call DSN 986-8044 or 877-754-1212 and press 1 to talk to an expert. Or email AFCSC.JA@wpafb.af.mil.