HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The possibility of moving every few years in an Airman’s career can be difficult for their spouses, especially when trying to establish a career. While some states accept existing occupational licenses and certifications, many states do not, requiring new residents to update their credentials to practice in those states.
On May 13, 2019, the Air Force implemented a licensure reimbursement program, not to exceed $500, for dependent spouses who require a relicensure or recertification during a permanent change of station or assignment across state lines.
“The licensure reimbursement puts up to $500 back into the pockets of spouses who are licensed in one state but have to re-license in another state due to a PCS,” said Master Sgt. Timothy Chambers, 49th Comptroller Squadron’s Finance Services flight chief. “The program really is a step beyond a simple ‘thank you’ when it comes to recognizing the sacrifices spouses make by being a part of the Department of Defense.”
Any qualifying occupational fees that have been incurred by the spouse during a PCS/PCA after December 12, 2017, are eligible for reimbursement based on the criteria listed in the Air Force Guidance Memorandum to Air Force Instruction 36-2102, Base-Level Relocation Procedures. The new policy will allow for reimbursement of relicensing fees including exams, certifications and registration.
This program does not reimburse costs for obtaining licenses for a new profession. To be reimbursed, the licenses and certifications for the spouse’s chosen profession must be previously or currently held.
Currently the program is only available to Air Force spouses who PCS/PCA from one stateside duty station to another stateside duty station – PCS/PCAs to or from outside continental United States bases are ineligible.
To file a claim, the member needs to provide the following documentation to Holloman’s Budget Office:
- A copy of the member’s PCS/PCA orders authenticated on or after December 12, 2017, showing their spouse as a dependent.
- A copy of their spouse’s state occupational license or certification from the previous duty station.
- A copy of their spouse’s state occupational license or certification from the new duty station.
- Receipt of total fees paid after the date the Airman’s PCS/PCA orders are issued.
- Direct deposit form, which can be obtained from Holloman’s Finance Office. The reimbursement will not appear in the Airman’s Leave and Earnings Statement, because it will be paid to the spouse.
The finance office has requested that the member brings in all documents for review before submitting the package to the budget office for payment.
Airmen and spouses can find more information about this program at www.afpc.af.mil/Benefits-and-Entitlements/Employment-Resources/.