Update on overseas benefits

[Steve Blake]

Update:  My agency processed the paperwork submitted my the Osan Civilian Personnel Office for post allowance (PA).  They are recognizing Tim as my dependent, at least for PA and living quarters allowance (LQA) ceiling.  This is all more symbolic than anything, in my circumstances.  The PA increased by $21 per pay period.  And for my housing, I was not spending the full LQA anyway (we are reimbursed for actual expenses, up to a cap, dependent on your GS level).

But Tim is still without SOFA status.  So he has to leave Korea every 90 days to re-set his tourist visa.

Well, for now I'm glad for the small step forward.

[Phillip Sorensen]

Steve, congrats on getting that far with even your housing !! Did you manage to get Tim on your Transportation Agreement so you can get Renewal Agreement Travel according to the April update to the JTR's?

A friend in your situation working for the Department of Defense Educational Unit (Teachers) was able to get his spouse put on his Transportation Agreement and subsequently now has RAT and have their tickets to fly. One step forward again. Still the entire DOD system is not harmonized when it comes to benefits.

[Steve Blake]

Thanks for the tip.  I'll talk to my agency about updating the transportation agreement.  I'll be putting in my extension to stay in Korea in a few months.  Getting the RAT travel for Tim too would be a nice, small victory.

[laoblu]

I was in a similar situation with my partner, but I work for DHS.  I was always told "no" and "nada" until the my Union President inquired and got answers very quickly.  It seemed like every thing was so secretive - but these are benefits for our families!  Since DHS has decided to follow DOS' rules in that same sex partners are family members; thus, my family gets additional housing and pay allowances just like spouses, and if we had children, they benefit too!