25 Important Documents NEEDED for EVERY Military PCS.

You have been waiting and waiting and the time has finally arrived; it is time to get ready for your next military move. No matter how you choose to move, getting ready for a military PCS (Permanent Change of Station) can be very stressful.

No matter where you will move or how much notice you have, one thing is for certain: you need to keep specific documents current, available and safe at all times.

Here are 25 Essential Documents Needed for Military Families to Keep on Hand for EVERY PCS.

1. PCS orders (original and several copies)
2. Overseas area clearance/dependent entry approval (original and several copies, if applicable)
3. Passports (one for each person traveling, if applicable)
4. Identification card for each person (if applicable)
5. Current drivers’ licenses or permits
6. Wills and POA documents
7. Medical and dental records for each family member (including immunization records)
8. Original birth certificates
9. Naturalization paperwork (if applicable)
10. Social security cards for each member of the family
11. Adoption papers (if applicable)
12. Marriage licenses and/or divorce decrees
13. All education documentation (transcripts, IEPs, IFSPs and evaluations)
14. Vehicle and Property Deeds and Titles
15. Shipping and storage documents for your household goods
16. Insurance policies (renters, home and/or auto)
17. Banking documents
18. Income tax returns (State and Federal)
19. Exceptional Family Member Program Paperwork (if applicable)
20. Check book (Keep them HERE, not in your desk during the move)
21. Savings Bonds and Stock certificates
22. Copy of your budget.
23. Copy of your home inventory
24. Pet documents (if applicable): immunization records, medical history
25. Educational Documents for School Age Children

A Few Thoughts

• You should always have your important documents packed with YOU and NOT with the movers. I have heard horror stories of check books being swiped when the family was not looking. Therefore don’t let that happen to you!
• Other items could easily move to a Home and Family Binder which can be kept in a central location in your current home and have important information at your finger tips to access easily.

A military move may be stressful. Being fully prepared can really make all the difference. Don’t go into this next PCS season unprepared!

What have you found to be the most important document in your PCS binder?