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Empowering Military Families
FamilyMedia.com is committed to providing best-in-class resources for the military community. This hub is a free tool designed to empower military families in their PCS planning and base research.
Visit FamilyMedia.comTL;DR - Quick Summary
Military base guides help you research your next duty station with interactive maps, housing information, and local area insights. BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) varies by rank, location, and dependency status - use DoD calculator for exact rates. Housing decisions: on-base offers community and included utilities; off-base offers variety and local integration. Key resources: contact your sponsor for insider knowledge, check installation housing office for on-base availability, research schools using GreatSchools.org, and join local Facebook PCS groups. Always include military clause in off-base leases - SCRA protects you with 30-day lease termination for PCS/deployment orders. Schedule house hunting trip 30-60 days before report date when possible.
🏠 Should You Buy or Rent at Your New Base?
The housing decision at your next base could be a wealth-building opportunity. Our calculator helps you compare on-base housing, renting off-base, and buying with a VA loan (potentially house hacking for rental income). See the numbers for YOUR specific situation.
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Get started with our in-depth guides to some of the most common duty stations.
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Learn More & JoinOCONUS & International Guides
Researching an overseas move? Explore our growing collection of guides for international duty stations.
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Explore USAABase Guide Questions, Answered 🏠
Get expert guidance on military base living, housing, and facility access.
Housing & Living
How do I decide between living on-base versus off-base?
This is a major decision with pros and cons for each option.
On-base housing offers a strong sense of community, security, a short commute, and often includes utilities in the rent, which is automatically covered by your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH).
Living off-base provides more variety in housing choices, a clear separation between work and home life, and the opportunity to experience the local community more fully. It may also allow you to buy a home and build equity. Our individual base guides are designed to help you explore the best neighborhoods and housing options in your new area to make the right choice for your family.
How do I find out my Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for my new location?
Your BAH is determined by your rank, dependency status, and the specific zip code of your new duty station. The most accurate way to find your rate is by using the official DoD BAH Calculator. This tool is updated annually and will give you the exact amount to expect.
How do I apply for on-base housing or get on the waitlist?
Contact your Housing Office and use the Housing Early Assistance Tool to initiate housing support before you arrive. Some branches link HEAT through HOMES.mil and Navy Housing.
Base Access & ID
How do I get a visitor pass without a DoD ID?
Start at the base's Visitor Control Center. Bring a REAL ID compliant ID or an acceptable alternate ID, and expect a quick NCIC background check. Hours and steps vary by installation, so check the specific VCC page.
What ID do I need after May 7, 2025 to access base facilities?
Adults must show a REAL ID compliant license or another acceptable ID such as a U.S. passport for entry to federal facilities, including military installations. Local bases may publish additional details.
Can veterans use the base with a VHIC?
Many eligible veterans and primary caregivers can enroll their VHIC at the VCC for recurring access and then use on-base privileges like commissary, exchange, and some MWR facilities. Check your base's VCC instructions.
Where do I renew ID cards or update DEERS on base?
Use the RAPIDS ID Card Office Online locator to find an office, book an appointment, and see required documents. Many bases require appointments.
Education & Family
What is a School Liaison Officer (SLO)? 🏫
The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your on-base subject matter expert for all things related to K-12 education. This is a critical resource for families with school-aged children. Your SLO can help you:
- Navigate the local school registration process.
- Understand the differences between on-base schools, public schools, and private options.
- Connect with resources for homeschooling families.
- Ensure a smooth transition for children with an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
How does on-base childcare work and how long is the wait?
All Child Development Centers and many Family Child Care homes use MilitaryChildCare.com. Create an account, request care, and track your spot. See MCC Central for how priorities and sequencing work.
Base Services & Resources
Where do I find current gate hours and closures?
Gate schedules change. Use the MilitaryINSTALLATIONS portal or your installation's access page for real-time VCC hours, gate maps, and updates.
Are there on-base hotels and how do I book?
Yes. DoD Lodging includes Air Force Inns, Army Lodging, Navy Gateway Inns and Navy Lodge, and Marine Corps Lodging. Search availability and eligibility on the official DoD Lodging and Navy Gateway Inns sites.
How do I find commissary or Exchange hours on my base?
Use the DeCA store locator for commissaries and the Exchange "Find a Store" tool for PX or BX hours and services.
Why isn't my new base or OCONUS location on the map?
Our Base Guide Navigator is a growing resource. We launched with a focus on the most common and highly-populated CONUS (Continental U.S.) installations. We are actively working to expand our coverage to include more U.S. bases and major OCONUS (Overseas) duty stations like those in Germany, Japan, and Korea. Please check back for future updates!
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