Can Retired Military Live on Base?
Contents
Introduction
For retired military personnel, the option to live on base may seem like a dream come true. After years of serving their country, it can be a daunting prospect to leave the familiarity of military life behind. Luckily, the answer to the question "Can retired military live on base?" is yes, but with certain limitations and requirements.
The Basics
The Department of Defense (DoD) allows retired military personnel to live on base, but only under specific circumstances. In order to qualify, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, which includes:
• Age: You must be at least 50 years old (or have been medically retired) or have a service-connected disability
• Length of Service: You must have completed at least 20 years of active duty, retired, or be on permanent disability retirement
• Eligibility Dates: You must have entered active duty before January 1, 2014 (for Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps) or before September 8, 1981 (for Navy and Coast Guard)
Tenure and Priority
Once you’ve met the eligibility criteria, you’ll need to understand the tenure and priority rules. Tenure refers to the period of time you’re authorized to occupy a quarters or apartment on base. As a retired military personnel, your tenure is typically determined by your length of service.
• 20-Year Rule: If you have completed 20 years of active duty, you’ll receive a 20-year tenure, which allows you to live on base for up to 20 years.
• 15-Year Rule: If you’ve completed 15 years of active duty, you’ll receive a 15-year tenure, which allows you to live on base for up to 15 years.
As for priority, retired military personnel are divided into three categories:
• Tier 1: Military personnel who have completed 30 years of active duty, or those who are eligible for the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)
• Tier 2: Military personnel who have completed 20 years of active duty
• Tier 3: Military personnel who have completed 15 years of active duty
Priority is assigned based on the tenure rule, with Tier 1 having the highest priority and Tier 3 having the lowest.
Types of Quarters
Once you’ve met the eligibility criteria and understand the tenure and priority rules, it’s time to consider the type of quarters you’d like to live in. There are several options to choose from:
• Base Housing: This type of quarters is owned and operated by the military installation, and is typically designed for families or single individuals.
• Family Housing: This type of quarters is designed for families and usually includes amenities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, and community centers.
• Unaccompanied Housing: This type of quarters is designed for single individuals and usually includes amenities such as laundry facilities, gyms, and dining areas.
• Independent Living: This type of quarters is designed for senior retired military personnel and includes amenities such as on-site maintenance, transportation, and social activities.
Application Process
So, you’ve met the eligibility criteria and have chosen the type of quarters you’d like to live in. What’s next? The application process typically involves the following steps:
• Obtain a Sponsor: Find a sponsor who is an active duty or retired military personnel currently living on base.
• Fill out Application: Complete the necessary paperwork, including the "Application for Quarters Assignment" and any other required forms.
• Gather Documents: Collect supporting documents, such as proof of eligibility, DD Form 214, and military identification.
• Interview: Attend an interview with the base housing office to discuss your application and requirements.
• Wait: Wait for the base housing office to review your application and make a decision.
Conclusion
Living on base as a retired military personnel can be a rewarding experience, offering a sense of community and familiarity. While there are certain limitations and requirements, the option to live on base can be a great way to maintain a connection to your military roots. By understanding the eligibility criteria, tenure and priority rules, types of quarters, and application process, you can take the first step towards making this dream a reality.
