ERD -- What does that mean?

  • Published
  • By Col. Cassie Barlow
  • 48th Mission Support Group commander
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Early return for dependents is an option for military members overseas under very particular circumstances. It is authorized under the Joint Federal Travel Regulation and allows your dependents to return to the United States at government expense prior to your date eligible for return from overseas or permanent change of station. However, to be entitled, there are very specific requirements.

One reason for the ERD entitlement is for "official situation". There are generally three criteria, but all are based on a command-sponsored dependent becoming involved in an incident. If that incident is embarrassing to the U.S.; is prejudicial to the command's order, morale and discipline; or gives rise to conditions in which the dependent's safety can no longer be ensured because of adverse public feeling in the area or force protection and anti-terrorism conditions, then the active-duty member may be given the entitlement for ERD.

There are other more common reasons why an ERD may be authorized. One of the most common is divorce or annulment; a member permanently stationed overseas whose marriage is terminated may be authorized travel and transportation allowances for a former dependent. Other reasons may include personal situations such as lack of appropriate medical treatment; death, serious injury or incapacitation of a dependent ordinarily caring for a member's minor dependents; educational facilities or housing for a dependent being inadequate, unacceptable employment opportunities for a dependent child 18 years or older, conditions in an overseas theater that cause a member to be justifiably concerned for the safety and well-being of dependents.

However, in all of these situations, there are special requirements that need to be met before the ERD is authorized. The ERD must be in the best interest of the member, and must be based on compelling personal reasons (financial difficulties, unforeseen problems, etc.) or situations which have an adverse effect on the member's performance of duty.

If you think you may be entitled to an ERD, your first stop is with your chain of command. Your first sergeant is well-informed on the process. You can also consult with the 48th Force Support Squadron customer service outbound assignments office. Finally, specific guidance can be found in section the Joint Federal Travel Regulation Volume 1, Chapter 5, Part J (U5900 - U5920).