Fluctuations in housing markets, accumulating hotel taxes and fees, and unpredictable PCS timelines can impact relocation costs. In 2026, the Department of Defense (DoD) will increase 

(TLE) days for most CONUS moves and clarify the daily cap. 

 remains based on local market data and rate protection policies. Familiarity with these regulations and escalation procedures can help service members avoid financial losses.

BAH in 2026: What to Expect and How It’s Set

Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a tax-free benefit designed to offset housing costs within a Military Housing Area (MHA). The allowance is determined by ZIP code, pay grade, and dependency status.

 (DTMO) of the DoD annually samples rental listings and utility costs across numerous MHAs. Rates are calibrated to reflect typical off-base housing that meets 

minimum quality standards for each pay grade

New BAH locality tables are typically published in mid-December and become effective on January 1. The actual allowance amount is determined by MHA, pay grade, and dependency status.

BAH rate protection ensures that, once eligibility is established at a duty station, service members receive any increase in rates but are shielded from decreases, provided their status remains unchanged. Rate protection ends if there is a 

, a reduction in pay grade, or a change in dependency status.

Published locality rates for a given ZIP code cannot be appealed. However, pay-record errors, such as incorrect ZIP code, grade, or dependency status, should be corrected promptly. Finance offices can provide guidance regarding rate protection if a decrease from the previous year's table is observed.

TLE in 2026: The New Baseline and the Hard Cap

. If you move OCONUS, check your orders and ask your finance office for your specific rules.

 for the entire family remains in effect for TLE reimbursement, which is calculated as a percentage of the locality per diem.

Lodging taxes and mandatory fees count toward the $ 290-per-day cap, as stated in the 

You must submit itemized, zero-balance lodging receipts. You cannot get reimbursed more than you actually paid for lodging.

Per diem backdrop for FY 2026: The General Services Administration (GSA) kept FY 2026 CONUS per diem base rates at the same level as FY 2025. That means your TLE math (percentages of lodging and M&IE) rides on familiar base figures unless you’re traveling to a Non-Standard Area with a higher local rate.

Commands and finance offices may approve TLE extensions beyond the standard limit in specific circumstances and locations. In cases of genuine housing shortages, the housing office and finance team can provide information on local extension options and required documentation.

Make sure the grade, dependency, and MHA ZIP match your orders and current situation. Many BAH shortfalls result from common entry errors.

For TLE, confirm your hotel dates match the authorized PCS window for your old or new PDS. House-hunting trip rules are different.

For TLE reimbursement, include each night's room rate, taxes, and mandatory fees on the receipts, and ensure the receipts show a zero balance. If you claim dependents, submit proof of their presence.

Correct data errors by giving orders and supporting documents, like marriage or birth certificates for status changes, to your finance or MPO. Update grade, dependency, or ZIP info as needed.

If the new-year table for an MHA is lower but status remains unchanged, rate protection may allow retention of the previous year's higher amount.

If you provide current rental listings and utility data to the housing office, you will help improve data for future rate calculations, but your current year's rate will not change.

If Your TLE is Denied or Underpaid, Here’s How to Appeal

TLE is an adjudicated travel entitlement associated with PCS. Re-adjudication may be requested, and appeals may be filed if necessary.

Ask the finance office to re-adjudicate your claim. Give complete documents: orders, amendments, 

, itemized zero-balance receipts, proof of dependents, and TLE day authorizations.

Confirm that taxes and mandatory fees are within the $290 cap, and that the reimbursement does not exceed your actual costs.

If the finance office denies an entitlement in error, an appeal may be submitted to the

(DFAS). DFAS can issue determinations and, when appropriate, forward claims to the 

Your appeal packet should include orders, vouchers, denial notices, nightly receipts, proof of dependents, and a short memo outlining JTR errors and the correction you want.

Budget using official rules, not assumptions. Wait for the December BAH table for your MHA. Always check for rate protection if rates drop.

Book lodging with providers who list room rate, taxes, and fees separately on receipts. Keep every receipt from every night as documentation.

Track TLE days ahead of your move. For CONUS moves, plan for up to 21 days. If needed, ask the housing office for an extension early.

Ask the housing office to verify market shortages and help gather documentation if you need an extended TLE or additional housing support.

Not in all cases. While many MHAs increase, some may remain unchanged or decrease annually. Rate protection ensures that, if status remains unchanged after arrival, any increase is received, but decreases are not imposed.

For most CONUS-to-CONUS moves, you can get up to 21 days. Rules are different for some OCONUS moves. Follow your orders and the finance office guidance.

The maximum reimbursement is $290 per day for the entire family, inclusive of lodging taxes and mandatory fees. Reimbursement cannot exceed the actual lodging cost.

You cannot appeal the locality rate. You can fix pay-record errors, claim rate protection, and give rental data to the housing office for future rates.

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Have you ever wondered what the different beret colors mean in the 

? Every color has a specific purpose, a distinct history, and a clear connection to its associated career field. This guide breaks down the meaning behind each military beret color and identifies which units are authorized to wear them.

Military berets date back to at least the 16th century, when infantry groups such as the German-speaking Landsknecht adopted the cap as part of their uniform. 

The beret did not become widely accepted as formal military headgear until the late 19th century, when French Alpine troops integrated it into their standard attire.

Today, berets appear in military forces around the world—including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. In modern use, beret colors typically signify a specific specialty or elite qualification, giving the headgear a strong association with high-performance units.

The distinctive headgear is awarded only to those who complete the Special Forces Qualification Course and earn

John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School

Even after rotating out of active Special Forces roles, qualified Soldiers may continue wearing the green beret throughout their careers.

In 2001, Army leadership designated the black beret as the standard headgear for all Soldiers. This decision remained in place until 2011, when the patrol cap replaced it for the 

The black beret is still worn with the Army Service Uniform (ASU), which now functions as an optional ceremonial uniform as the Army Green Service Uniform (AGSU) becomes standard.

The maroon beret is reserved for Soldiers assigned to airborne units. To qualify for an airborne assignment, Soldiers must complete the Army’s Basic Airborne Course at 

Before 2001, Army Rangers were associated with the black beret. When the black beret became standard issue for all Soldiers, the 

 Ranger-qualified cadre assigned to the Airborne and Ranger Training Brigade also wear the tan beret.

 (SFABs) wear the brown beret. The unit originally selected an olive-drab green design in 2018, but concerns expressed by the Army Special Forces community led to the adoption of brown instead. 

SFAB teams train and advise partner-nation conventional military units.

US Air Force Beret Colors & Their Meanings

 (TACP) career field wear the black beret. TACPs integrate with Army combat units and coordinate Close Air Support (CAS) missions by directing airstrikes from US and allied aircraft.

Air Force Security Forces—the Air Force’s Military Police—wear the dark blue beret. According to the Air Force, the color represents achievement and recognition. It reflects the unit motto “Defensor Fortis,” meaning “Defenders of the Force.”

Combat Aviation Advisors assigned to the 6th Special Operations Squadron wear the charcoal brown beret. 

(AFSOC) states that the color symbolizes fertile soil, grit, discipline, and the work required to strengthen partner-nation aviation forces.

AFSOC Special Reconnaissance Airmen wear the pewter grey beret. First authorized in 1986, the beret reflects the advanced environmental expertise these operators possess, enabling them to gather critical meteorological intelligence in hostile or denied territories.

AFSOC Combat Controllers (CCTs) wear the scarlet beret—though they commonly refer to it simply as the red beret. Combat Controllers serve as

 (JTACs), capable of coordinating everything from precision airstrikes to large-scale bombardments.

Air Force Pararescuemen, known as PJs, wear the maroon beret. The color symbolizes sacrifice and dedication to the mission of rescue and medical support, reflected in the motto “That Others May Live.”

 PJs execute complex personnel-recovery missions in both conventional and unconventional environments.

USAF Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape 

(SERE) specialists wear the pewter green beret. These experts train airmen on how to survive, evade capture, resist exploitation, and escape if detained behind enemy lines. 

The SERE motto is “Return With Honor.”

wear the blue beret upon reaching their senior year, and academy cadre wear it during Basic Cadet Training. This beret signifies senior cadet status and readiness to commission as officers.

Wearing a military beret properly is essential for maintaining uniform standards and representing your unit with pride. 

The following instructional video demonstrates the correct way to shape, fit, and wear a US military beret.

Beret colors represent specific job specialties, elite qualifications, or unit assignments within each branch of the US military.

Which branches of the US military wear berets?

The US Army and US Air Force use berets as part of their official uniforms. The Navy, Marine Corps, and Space Force do not.

Why are some berets associated with elite units?

Berets historically became symbols of elite performance due to their early adoption by specialized units, especially during the 20th century.

Are beret colors standardized across all countries?

No. Different nations assign unique meanings to beret colors based on their own military traditions.

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Thankfully for expectant mothers around the globe, maternity wear has come a long way over the last few years. What was once a category of clothing without many desirable options is now a genre where women do not have to sacrifice personal style to accommodate their growing baby bumps.

As a military spouse and mother of three children myself, I have always thought that maternity uniforms for our nation’s service branches across the board could use a revamp. The United States Air Force has unveiled a modern maternity uniform line, giving expectant active-duty members professional, stylish, and comfortable options. 

The full collection will be available by April 2026, with select items already at

 (AFES) stores. These redesigned uniforms reflect a commitment to supporting service members throughout pregnancy while maintaining operational readiness.

Why the Air Force Maternity Uniform Update Matters

 have historically lacked variety, comfort, and style. 

The Air Force’s updated line addresses these concerns, offering designs that accommodate growing bodies without compromising professionalism. 

For active-duty expectant mothers, the changes mark a significant step toward functional and stylish uniform options.

The redesigned line includes two standout additions:

 Crafted with a flexible, moisture-wicking fabric, this dress stretches comfortably throughout pregnancy. Its classic wrap design offers a polished look suitable for ceremonies, office duties, and everyday service.

 Featuring crisp long sleeves and a single front button, this coat complements the dress and other uniform pieces while maintaining a professional silhouette.

“The new maternity uniform offers a flattering, comfortable, and professional appearance, and features a 360-degree stretch panel made with moisture-wicking material that adjusts easily throughout all stages of pregnancy.”

These new items replace the older “jumper” dress introduced in 1993. One-size-fits-all sizing often failed to accommodate different body types, and previous fabrics were restrictive. 

Additionally, concerns that the jumpers were made of a stiffer fabric and therefore not flexible or comfortable enough for growing bumps are part of what prompted the call to redesign the uniform.

has been overwhelmingly positive. One pregnant service member who participated in the wear test study shared:

“The dress was well thought out and designed. I felt extremely professional while wearing it during official ceremonies.”

We also combed Facebook for some more real reviews and found this testimonial from an active duty mother in the Air Force who recently delivered: 

“This is coming from someone who was JUST pregnant and is AD USAF. These actually look super cozy. I personally have no complaints about the maternity uniforms.”

Looking Ahead: A Model for Other Branches

"Bravo Zulu" Air Force, for leading the way in modernizing maternity uniforms, and for setting a standard other branches may soon follow. Active-duty expectant mothers can look forward to professional, comfortable, and stylish options that respect both their service and personal needs.

If you are an expectant mother looking to transition your wardrobe to these more stylish options in the coming months, you can use 

the Maternal Supplemental Clothing Allowance

 to help offset costs for new maternity uniforms. The allowance is available for use within any 36-month period, making the updated wardrobe both accessible and practical.

The new line emphasizes that uniform innovation can go hand-in-hand with operational readiness, ensuring every member can perform their duties while feeling confident and supported.

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In response to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s directive requiring all military services to adopt new, stricter fitness and body composition standards, the services have updated their physical fitness tests, which will take effect in 2026. 

The tests include gender-neutral "male standards" for those serving in combat roles like special forces. Military members serving in “non-combat roles” will still have different requirements based on gender.

So, do you think you can pass the new physical fitness test for each of the services? Military members are certainly already aware of these new requirements, but what about those of you who aren’t in the military or who may be thinking about joining the military? What about retirees like myself? Let’s break down the new requirements by service so you can see if you’re up to the challenge.

scorecards that lay out the requirements of the new 

‘sex-neutral’ standards announced last month

. The cards cover mandatory performance for all five events of the new Army Fitness test under two categories. 

One category is labeled “M/C” for male and all combat Soldiers. Another is labeled as “F” for female, which is for non-combat female Soldiers.

Under the rebranded Army Fitness Test (AFT), Soldiers will have to complete a three-repetition maximum deadlift, hand-release push-ups, the sprint-drag-carry, plank, and a two-mile run. The new test got rid of the standing power throw, more informally referred to as the “yeet” event by soldiers. 

To pass the AFT, combat Soldiers will have to earn a score of 350 points in total, which averages out to between 60 and 70 points in each event. For non-combat Military Operational Specialties, Soldiers have to score a minimum of 300 points with a minimum of 60 points in each event.

You must lift the maximum weight possible three times with a 60-pound hex bar and plates.

The HRP assesses the muscular endurance component of fitness by measuring a Soldier’s upper body endurance. The HRP is a strong driver for upper-body and core strength training. Flexibility is a secondary component of fitness assessed by the HRP.

Conduct five 50-meter shuttles for time - sprint, drag, lateral, and carry. 

Maintain a proper plank position for as long as possible.

Run two miles for time on a measured, generally flat outdoor course.

In support of the Department of the Air Force 

, the Air Force unveiled changes to its Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) and a new fitness program, which will apply to all Total Force Airmen.

The new PFA reimplements the scored body composition component using the current Waist-to-Height Ratio program and introduces a two-mile run. 

Additionally, service members will be required to take the PFA every six months regardless of their score.

The updated PFA features a 100-point scoring system across four categories:

To pass the new Air Force fitness test, Airmen must achieve a 

of at least 75 points and meet the minimum point value for each component. Meeting the minimums for every category will not result in a passing score, as the minimum scores from each component combined are below 75 points.

Airmen can choose between the two-mile run or the High Aerobic Multi-Shuttle Run (HAMR). However, airmen must choose the two-mile run on at least one of their two annual PFAs.

Here’s how you compute your WHtR value.

Convert your height into inches. Example: 5'11” = 71 inches.

To measure your waist, find the midpoint between the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hips, which is typically just above your belly button. Wrap a flexible tape measure around your middle, ensuring it is parallel to the floor and snug but not digging into your skin.

Divide your waist measurement by your height measurement. Example: 36 inches divided by 71 inches = 0.507, rounded up to 0.51.

Find the 0.51 point value on the cardiorespiratory chart of your age group. A 0.51 WHtR value is worth 18 out of the maximum possible 20 points.

Airmen can choose between regular push-ups or hand-release push-ups. The score is based on the total number completed within one minute. 

Hand-release push-ups are more challenging than regular push-ups because they remove momentum, force a greater range of motion, and increase muscle engagement by making you start each rep from a "dead" position on the floor. 

Regular push-ups can be done faster and rely on the stretch reflex and momentum, while hand-release push-ups build more strength and control by forcing you to fully lower your body and lift your hands before starting the next rep.

Airmen can choose between the maximum regular sit-ups within one minute, the maximum cross-leg reverse crunch within two minutes, or the maximum time able to sustain the forearm plank.

All Guardians are required to complete a 

(HPA) once a year if they are enrolled in the Continuous Fitness Assessment Personalized Readiness Integrated Through Monitoring and Engagement study and twice per year if they are not. 

The HPA measures muscular strength, muscular endurance, and cardiorespiratory fitness on an 80-point scale. Guardians must earn a composite score of 60 or higher to be considered physically ready. One of the HPAs each year must include a two-mile run.

The USSF uses the same scoring tables and elements as the USAF but does not include the WHtR (20 points) in its HPA. This explains the lower max score of 80 in the USSF versus 100 in the USAF.

(PRT) includes a Body Composition Assessment (BCA) and three core events: a two-minute push-up test, a forearm plank, and a 1.5-mile run/walk. 

Alternative cardio options like a 500-yard swim or a 12-minute stationary bike ride are also available. The test is conducted to measure muscular endurance and aerobic capacity, with scoring adjusted for age and sex. 

Sailors will test twice per year, and their PRT is gender-normed, meaning there are different scoring tables for males and females.

The Navy’s guidelines for its BCA can be found 

The Marine Corps has two main physical fitness tests: the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and the Combat Fitness Test (CFT). 

The PFT is a traditional test of endurance and strength, consisting of a timed three-mile run, a timed plank, and either pull-ups or push-ups. 

The CFT is a test of combat-related functional fitness and includes a 

 course. The two tests are accomplished in different halves of a calendar year. For the purpose of this article, we’ll focus on the PFT.

The Marine Corps has gender-normed PFT standards for general fitness and gender-neutral standards for combat-related job-specific tasks. This means that the standard USMC PFT has different scoring for men and women, but certain jobs, like drill instructor positions, require individuals to pass a separate, gender-neutral combat test that is the same for all Marines.

To pass the USMC PFT, you must score at least 150 points and meet the minimum standards in each of the three events (pull-ups or push-ups, plank, and the three-mile run). The maximum score is 300 points. Failing to meet the minimum requirement in any single event results in a failed PFT, regardless of the total score.

Just for fun, I took a look at the new USAF PFA standards to see if I might pass them. Back in my active duty days, I normally scored around 90 points. The waist measurement typically killed my score. I once maxed out every event except for the waist measurement and ended up with a 93. If memory serves, that was my career high score. 

It’s been more than 14 years since I took my last USAF fitness test, and, at age 64, my required scores in each category are pretty low.  But let’s see how I might do.

Long-distance running was never one of my strengths, and I never maxed out this event while serving in the USAF. I typically completed the 1.5-mile run in around 10 minutes, not nearly good enough to max out the event. 

Nowadays, I’d still choose the run since the HARM is supposedly more difficult. The minimum time for a male over 60 is 23:36, which will earn you 29.5 points. 

I’m confident that I can still average 10 minutes a mile for two miles. A time of 20:00 minutes would get me 38.6 points.

I’m six feet tall with a 37-inch waist. That computes to a 0.51 WHtR, good for 18 points. Thank goodness I stopped eating chocolate donuts every day for dessert.

Back in the day, push-ups were my easiest event, and I always maxed them out. Thankfully, under the new PFA scorecards, old dudes get a huge break. It only takes 30 push-ups in one minute to earn the maximum 15 points. I got this.

Unlike push-ups, sit-ups were my least favorite event, and I always struggled to get a maximum score. Some years I did, and most years I didn’t. Luckily, airmen now have the choice to do the forearm plank instead of sit-ups. 

I regularly do planks at the gym and find them pretty easy to do. When you’re a guy over 60, you only have to do the forearm plank for 2:55 seconds to earn the maximum 15 points. I think I can do that pretty easily. Thank you, Father Time.

Well, it looks like I passed with a total score of 86.6, not too far off my active duty scores. Feel free to check my math! I guess the age categories work.

How do you think you’d do on your preferred military fitness test?

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claim can feel like financial and emotional whiplash. You’ve already uprooted your life, spent hundreds or even thousands of dollars out of pocket, and followed the rules. And yet, finance says no.

The truth? Most PCS denials are fixable. You don’t need to argue. You need to correct the gaps, cite the right rules, and resubmit with confidence. This feature gives you every step, template, and practical move you need to get your reimbursement approved.

Why PCS Claims Get Denied (And How to Fight Back)

 (JTR), which specify entitlements. Success depends on accurate orders, completed forms, and clearly documented expenses. 

Most denials result from missing paperwork or simple submission errors, not from ineligible expenses. Rest assured, a clear path to reimbursement is within your reach.

Most Common PCS Denial Scenarios (and How to Fix Them)

: No Certificate of Non-Availability (CNA). A CNA is an official document showing that government lodging was not available.

: You stayed off-base without proof that government lodging wasn’t available.

: Request a retroactive CNA from the lodging office. If that’s not possible, get a signed memo from your commander verifying the unavailability or mission necessity.

: Missing or unreadable lodging receipts.

: The itemized receipt wasn’t provided, illegible, or not marked “paid.”

: Contact the hotel for a digital replacement and submit with a matching 

 (GTCC) statement (a GTCC is the credit card issued for official travel expenses).

: Outdated form version used, calculations don’t match, missing signature, or fields left blank.

: Use the May 2011 version of the travel voucher form DD Form 1351-2, complete all required fields, and sign/date before resubmitting.

: Wrong trip distance, wrong number of vehicles claimed, or incorrect rate applied.

: Use MapQuest to calculate trip distance with the “most direct route” (the shortest reasonable way you could have driven) and the JTR mileage tables for the current year.

: Per diem or lodging costs exceed JTR limits.

: Finance can’t verify dependent status or travel length.

: Provide supporting documentation showing dependents, authorized travel days, or mission necessity that justifies a higher rate.

Read your denial notice and highlight each reason. Fix the documentation for each denied item and connect it to the correct JTR paragraph. Most denials involve missing receipts, needed authorizations, or incorrect forms.

Before resubmitting, fix every issue in your voucher. This includes:

 (May 2011 version, which is the main travel reimbursement document), signed and completed.

CNA or command memo (if required; a CNA is proof that government lodging wasn’t available).

GTCC statement showing matching charges (the GTCC is your official travel credit card)

 (PPM, when you move your own household goods).

Dependent travel docs (if travel is separated).

Expenses without documentation cannot be reimbursed. Complete documentation boosts approval chances.

Step 3: Submit for Reconsideration (Most Cases Resolved Here)

Subject: Reconsideration Request – PCS Travel Voucher, [Rank, Name, DoD ID], Orders Dated [Date]

I request reconsideration of my PCS travel voucher. The original settlement disallowed the following items:

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