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Questions and Answers
Question: What is the definition of "family member" under the
Humanitarian/Exceptional Family Member Programs?
Answer. Family member is described as a spouse, child, father, mother,
person in loco parentis, or other persons actually residing in the household who
are dependent for over half of their financial support. Stepparents can qualify
as a family member under this program if they meet the basic criteria for in
loco parentis. Parents-in-law can qualify if there is no other way to alleviate
the situation, there are no other family members in the local area who can
assist, and your reassignment would not require approval of a second dislocation
allowance (second move within the same fiscal year).
Question: How do I apply for consideration under the
program(s)?
Answer: Your local military personnel flight (MPF) will assist you in
preparing an application IAW AFI 36-2110, Atch 7. For consideration under the
Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP), you will also need to coordinate with
your local EFMP officer. If you submit your application while on leave, submit
it through the nearest military installation. In this case, your commander’s
indorsement will not be required.
Question: How long does it take to process a request for
reassignment under the Humanitarian/Exceptional Family Member Programs?
Answer. Normal processing time for a Humanitarian request is one week
from the date the request is received in AFPC/DPAPO; for Exceptional Family
Member Program requests, two weeks is the average. However, many factors affect
the process. When the request arrives at AFPC it is first staffed to either the
AFPC medical or legal staff for review and recommendation. The length of time it
takes them to return the package to us depends on their workload and whether or
not they need to solicit further information in order to make an informed
recommendation. Next, whether or not a request is going to be approved or
disapproved affects the processing time. A disapproval normally leaves our
office within 48 hours after being staffed. An approved case may take longer, as
an assignment usually must be worked. Add to that DEROS curtailments, requests
for second dislocation allowances, the possibility of a need for retraining,
checking availability of services at possible assignment locations, and you’ve
got a process that takes a few days, at best. However, we are committed to
working each individual case as quickly as possible, and are continually
searching for means to shorten the processing time while continuing to ensure
the best possible assignment is provided to the military member.
Question: I’m currently enrolled in the Exceptional Family
Member Program (EFMP). When I am notified of an assignment and find the services
my family needs are not available at that location, will I automatically be
provided an alternate assignment?
Answer. No. Reassignments under the EFMP are not automatic. Although
enrollment in the program is mandatory, reassignment consideration is voluntary.
Therefore, if you receive notification adequate services for your dependents are
not available at a projected location, you must submit a formal request if you
desire an alternate assignment (see AFI 36-2110, Atch 7).
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Page Updated on: 20 May 2006