1. What is Family Separation Allowance?

Family Separation Allowance (FSA) is a military benefit that provides $250 per month to service members who are separated from their dependents for more than 30 consecutive days due to military orders.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard FSA calculation:

Where:

• \( \$250 \) — Monthly FSA rate
• \( \text{Number of Eligible Months} \) — Months of qualifying separation

Explanation: FSA is paid for each full month of qualifying separation beyond the initial 30-day period.

3. Eligibility Requirements

Details: To qualify for FSA, service members must have dependents, be on active duty, and be separated for more than 30 consecutive days due to permanent change of station or deployment orders.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of eligible months of separation. Only full months beyond the initial 30 days count toward FSA eligibility.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When does FSA start?
A: FSA begins after 30 consecutive days of separation from dependents due to military orders.

Q2: Are there different FSA rates?
A: No, the FSA rate is standardized at $250 per month for all eligible service members.

Q3: What types of separation qualify?
A: Permanent change of station, deployment, TDY assignments, and other military-ordered separations lasting more than 30 days.

Q4: Is FSA taxable?
A: No, Family Separation Allowance is not subject to federal income tax.

Q5: Can I receive FSA for partial months?
A: No, FSA is only paid for full months of qualifying separation beyond the initial 30 days.