What is Dislocation Allowance (DLA) and when is it paid?

• A. A monthly housing allowance.
• B. A training incentive.
• C. A one-time PCS-related moving allowance; paid with the pay period following or as directed by orders.
• D. A medical stipend.

Answer: (C)

Dislocation Allowance is a one-time, PCS-related moving allowance meant to help cover upfront costs of relocating to a new duty station. It isn’t a monthly benefit for housing, it isn’t a training incentive, and it isn’t a medical stipend. The payment is made once in connection with the move, typically with the pay period following the orders directing the relocation or exactly as those orders specify. This makes DLA distinct as a single relocation payment tied to a PCS, rather than ongoing or other types of benefits.