What is a Navy LOI?

 

Understanding Navy Letters of Intent (LOIs)

The Navy issues Letters of Intent (LOIs) to provide early coordination and assistance to sailors in preparation for their Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. LOIs are part of the Navy’s efforts to mitigate the impact of compressed PCS lead times on sailors and their families, providing them with greater flexibility and support throughout the moving process.

Purpose of LOIs

The primary purpose of Navy LOIs is to enable sailors to begin essential preparations for their PCS moves in advance. These letters serve as a means of early communication, allowing sailors to initiate necessary administrative tasks and ensure a smoother transition to their new duty station.

Expanded Eligibility

Since July 5, 2017, the Navy has expanded the issuance of LOIs to include most sailors, not just those with overseas duty locations. This change allows a broader range of personnel to benefit from the early coordination and assistance provided by LOIs.

Process Changes

LOIs enable sailors to complete various tasks and processes related to their PCS moves. This includes operational screenings, updating security clearances, taking permissive Temporary Duty (TDY) for residence hunting, and initiating entitlement counseling and application procedures for the movement of household goods.

Limitations of LOIs

It is important to note that LOIs do not contain a line of accounting, which restricts their use in certain areas. They cannot be used for issuing tickets, receiving advanced military and/or travel pay, shipping household goods and privately owned vehicles, placing goods in storage, or reimbursing personally procured moves.

Exceptions

While LOIs are generally available to most sailors, there are some exceptions. Certain types of orders, such as Temporary Limited Duty (TLD), Home Port Changes, Pre Commission units, Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center (ECRC), Afghanistan-Pakistan (AFPAK) Hands, pregnancies, accessions, retirements, and separations, are not eligible to receive LOIs.

By providing sailors with early coordination and assistance, LOIs aim to alleviate the challenges associated with compressed PCS lead times. These letters enable sailors to better prepare for their moves, ensuring a smoother transition and reducing stress for both the service member and their family.

Sources:

  1. Navy to Issue Letters of Intent for most Sailors’ PCS Moves – United States Navy
  2. PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION ORDERS LETTER OF INTENT – United States Navy
  3. Navy LOI Response Template – Military Justice Guides

FAQs

What is a Navy LOI?

A Navy Letter of Intent (LOI) is an official document issued by the Navy to provide sailors with early coordination and assistance in preparing for their Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves.

How does a Navy LOI help sailors?



A Navy LOI allows sailors to begin essential preparations for their PCS moves in advance. It enables early communication and coordination, helping sailors initiate administrative tasks and ensure a smoother transition to their new duty station.

Who is eligible to receive a Navy LOI?

Starting from July 5, 2017, most sailors, not just those with overseas duty locations, are eligible to receive Navy LOIs. This expansion allows a broader range of personnel to benefit from the early coordination and assistance provided by LOIs.

What tasks can be completed using a Navy LOI?

A Navy LOI enables sailors to complete various tasks and processes related to their PCS moves. This includes operational screenings, updating security clearances, taking permissive Temporary Duty (TDY) for residence hunting, and initiating entitlement counseling and application procedures for the movement of household goods.

What are the limitations of a Navy LOI?

A Navy LOI does not contain a line of accounting, which restricts its use in certain areas. It cannot be used for issuing tickets, receiving advanced military and/or travel pay, shipping household goods and privately owned vehicles, placing goods in storage, or reimbursing personally procured moves.

Are there any exceptions to receiving a Navy LOI?



While Navy LOIs are generally available to most sailors, there are exceptions. Certain types of orders, such as Temporary Limited Duty (TLD), Home Port Changes, Pre Commission units, Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center (ECRC), Afghanistan-Pakistan (AFPAK) Hands, pregnancies, accessions, retirements, and separations, are not eligible to receive LOIs.

How do Navy LOIs contribute to the PCS process?

Navy LOIs aim to mitigate the impact of compressed PCS lead times on sailors and their families. By providing early coordination and assistance, LOIs help sailors better prepare for their moves, ensuring a smoother transition and reducing stress during the PCS process.

Where can I find more information about Navy LOIs?

For more information about Navy LOIs, sailors can refer to official sources such as the Navy’s website, Navy publications, or consult with their chain of command for guidance specific to their situation.