Survey to assess overseas housing allowance

Off-base residents are asked to provide input on their overseas housing allowances during a survey running May 4 to June 3. 

The OHA utility and move in expense survey is conducted every three years to compute and update allowance rates worldwide. All servicemembers who reside in privately leased quarters overseas and receive an overseas housing allowance are required to complete the online survey. 

The utility portion of the survey will ask servicemembers to report the average monthly cost of utilities and routine maintenance for the last twelve months. The move in housing allowance portion of the survey will ask members to report the costs incurred when first moving into their leased residence. 

It is important accurate figures be provided. It is recommended to use records and receipts to accurately determine the amounts actually spent. Married servicemembers are encouraged to complete the survey with their spouse. 

Japan residents can access the survey at https://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/oha/survey/utility.html. To complete the survey, servicemembers will be asked for the last four digits of their social security number. Responses are held in strictest confidence and not shared with any other office or agency. 

For more information, contact Master Sgt. Angelito Lapid at 226-5547. 

-- Information compiled from U.S. Forces Japan