How can you collect the money the Army owes you?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2020 19:03:23 -0400

If someone out-processed an OCONUS duty station, but realized he was short-paid COLA right before he leaves, can he claim the amount Army owes him in the next duty station? Finance office said the pay issue cannot be fixed because SM cleared post.

Response by SGT Robert Pryor made May 18 at 2020 7:57 PM

SGT Robert Pryor — Mon, 18 May 2020 19:57:14 -0400

Talk to finance at your new posts. If you are owed the money, they will eventually make it right, as long as they know there's a problem.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2020 8:22 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2020 20:22:35 -0400

Once you out-process an OCONUS duty station, your overseas entitlements cease. The minute you signed out is when the entitlements end. COLA only applies when you are actively a member of the post, not when you are on leave in transit to next unit.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2020 11:44 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2020 23:44:56 -0400

You get paid COLA by the day, so the COLA rate would be lower than usual. The Soldiers LES will say the days and rate they were paid COLA for. If those dates were incorrect or the rate incorrect the Soldier could do a pay inquiry and receive the remaining unpaid COLA.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made May 19 at 2020 5:50 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Tue, 19 May 2020 05:50:54 -0400

Yes, when you file for your travel you can provide the proof and submit.