PCS Personal Property Claims

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Kimberly Corbridge
  • 341st Missile Wing Judge Advocate office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  The permanent change of station season is upon us once again. The following information can help regarding Personal Property Claims from the Air Force Claims Service Center. Whether this is your first or one of many PCS moves, it is possible that it may not go as smoothly as planned. This is a hub of step-by-step information to assist personnel on asserting a personal property damage claim.

First and foremost, personnel will need to visit https://claims.jag.af.mil/legalassistance/index.php to complete an AFCSC Smooth Move Briefing, after which, they can print a certificate and drop off at the Malmstrom Air Force Base Legal Office, located at 7218 Goddard Drive, Bldg. 770. This website will also assist in locating general information on filing a claim. Some points to remember include:

· To file electronically, log on to a government computer with a Common Access Card at https://claims.jag.af.mil, and obtain a username and password. If unable to use a government computer, contact AFCSC at DSN 986-8044 or toll-free 1-877-754-1212, to be authenticated. Once a username and password are obtained, log on to https://claims.jag.af.mil/legalassistance/index.php and click on "I want to file my claim electronically"
· To file by mail, send all required documents to: AFCSC/JAD, 1940 Allbrook Drive, Bldg. 1, Suite 500, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433
· Personnel have two years from the date of delivery to file their claim
· Personnel have 75 days after the date of delivery to annotate any additional loss/damage on the DD Form 1840R (Pink Form)
· Documentation, documentation, documentation - you will need to substantiate your claim
· Inspection of damaged items may be required

Finally, PCS season is stressful enough, let alone discovering damaged items. Take this opportunity to review the smooth move information that AFCSC has to offer. Contact the legal office at 731-2878 for assistance with claims and other legal questions.