It can be overwhelming to think about leaving the home you shared with your deceased service member. Even if you are hesitant about taking this big step right now, it is helpful to know your housing options and available moving benefits — as well as some practical steps to take — that may help you with your move when that day comes.

Decide where to move.

In deciding where to build your new home, you may want to consider these three things:

  1. The best location to find support (near family and friends or near a military installation)
  2. Relocating for a job, which can give some survivors a new sense of purpose
  3. The affordability of a location and ability to live comfortably

Learn more about where to move with the following relevant resources:

Understand housing and allowances.

If you are living in government housing as an eligible family member, you may qualify to continue living in government housing for a year from the date of your loved one’s death. If you are not living in government housing, you may be provided a lump-sum payment for 365 days of Basic Allowance for Housing at the current rate for your loved one’s pay grade. You are also authorized one relocation move at government expense that must be completed within three years of the death of your loved one.

Learn more about housing and allowances from the following relevant resources:

Organize the steps to make your final move.

Survivors are often overwhelmed in the days following the death of a loved one. It can be difficult to remember all the details involved in a move. Use this simple checklist to plan your move:

  • Make an appointment with the transportation office.
  • Take inventory of your belongings.
  • Save receipts and file claims for your travel and for lost or damaged belongings.
  • Connect with your Military and Family Support Center for assistance.

Learn more ways to organize the steps to make your final move with the following relevant resources:

Access resources.

Be sure to take advantage of all the resources at your fingertips as you plan your last move. Find relocation assistance through MilitaryINSTALLATIONS. Get online organizational tools at Plan My Move. Learn about financial assistance with the Personal Financial Management Program. Turn to Military OneSource for resources and support, including financial counseling, moving assistance, information about survivor benefits and much more.

Learn more about the resources you can use during your final move from the following relevant resources: