A cost-of-living allowance granted to an employee officially stationed at a post in a foreign area where the cost of living, exclusive of quarters cost, is substantially higher than in Washington, DC.  Allowance rate is determined by the classification of the employee’s foreign post, salary, and family size.

Post allowance commences the date the employee arrives at a new post or the date the family arrives at the new post when the employee's arrival is delayed, except that no post allowance can be paid during any period when an employee or family member is receiving payment of TQSA.

It is important that any changes to the family status (birth, children leaving for college, etc.) are reflected in the employee’s post allowance earning as soon as possible.

    •  Submit completed SF-1190 to:  SMB HQMC HROM OVERSEAS