When can a service member request advance pay?

• A. Up to 90 days prior to date of departure and 180 days after reporting to new PDS
• B. Up to 60 days prior to departure and 120 days after reporting to new PDS
• C. Up to 180 days prior to date of departure and 90 days after reporting to new PDS
• D. Up to 30 days prior to departure and 60 days after reporting to new PDS

Answer: (A)

Advance pay is a relocation help that you can request to cover moving costs when you're transferring to a new permanent duty station. The allowed timing is up to 90 days before your date of departure and up to 180 days after you report to the new PDS. This window aligns with the relocation timeline: you can get funds in advance to smooth the move before you leave, and you can still request funds after you’ve arrived at the new duty station to bridge any gaps in pay as you settle in. In practice, the schedule ensures you have access to funds during both the pre-move phase and the early post-arrival phase.