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JBSA News
NEWS | July 11, 2019

Some military spouses eligible for relicensing recertification funds

By Mary Nell Sanchez 502nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Funds to help military spouses with relicense or recertify professional accreditations costs are now available through the Military and Family Readiness Center at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland.

The spouse reimbursement for relicensure and recertification program was introduced in May 2019 with the objective of supporting a military spouse’s career.

The program was championed by military spouses who found themselves in financial hardship from relocating frequently due to permanent change of stations throughout their service member’s career.

“The multiple PCSs can make it really challenging for their spouses to establish and maintain careers with a steady income,” said Amy Maness, JBSA-Lackland Military & Family Readiness community readiness consultant.

Relicensing or recertifications fees can vary from state to state, Maness added.

The new program eases some of that financial burden by reimbursing up to $500 for each qualifying PCS or permanent change of assignment.

Eligibility requirements include:

  • PCS/PCA orders on or after Dec. 12, 2017.
  • PCSing/PCAing from a duty station in one state to another state.
  • The move is not due to career intermission program, retirement or separation.
  • Costs are incurred and paid after PCS/PCA orders are issued and within 24 months of PCS/PCA orders being certified.

Some of the areas eligible for recertification or relicensing assistance include teaching, medical, dental and real estate. Every state has its own set of requirements that must be adhered to and recertification or relicensing can cost thousands of dollars.

“These relicensing updates can include exams, registrations and can mean more fees and costs,” Maness said. “The costs can add up very quickly and become a burden; especially if they’re taking more than one relicensure or recertification.”

The funds are just one of the many kinds of careers assistance available to military spouses at the M&RFC; all aimed at helping families sustain a healthy life during their service to our country.

For more information call one of the JBSA-Military & Family Readiness Centers at JBSA-Fort Sam Houston, 210-221-2705; JBSA-Lackland, 210-671-3722, or JBSA-Randolph, 210-652-5321, or visit https://www.militaryonesource.mil/education-employment/for-spouses/education-training-licensing/transferring-your-professional-license-what-s-involved for service specific reimbursement eligibility and procedures.