AF Form 1039: Advance Housing Allowance Request Guide – If you’re a US Air Force service member moving into off-base housing—whether stateside (CONUS) or overseas (OCONUS)—you may need extra cash upfront for rent, security deposits, or moving-in costs. AF Form 1039, officially titled Request to Receive and/or Extend Repayment of an Advance Housing Allowance, is the required document to request an advance on your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) or Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA).
This step-by-step guide explains everything you need to know about AF Form 1039 in 2026, including eligibility, how to fill it out, required supporting documents, the approval process, repayment rules, and official download links. Whether you’re PCSing to a new base or setting up your first off-base residence, this article will help you navigate the process smoothly and avoid delays.
What Is AF Form 1039?
AF Form 1039 is the official Air Force form used to document a service member’s request for an advance housing allowance and to establish (or extend) its repayment schedule. It is authorized under 37 U.S.C. Sections 403 and 405 and Executive Order 9397.
The advance helps cover:
- Advance rent
- Security deposits
- Moving-in expenses (e.g., initial utility setup or reasonable personal property needed for occupancy)
Important: The advance is not automatic. It must be justified with actual housing expenses and approved by your unit commander.
The current version of the form is dated APR 87 (previous editions are obsolete) and remains the standard form used across all Air Force installations.
Who Is Eligible for an Advance Housing Allowance?
You may qualify for an advance if you are:
- An active-duty Air Force member (E-1 and above) moving into economy (off-base) housing
- Required to pay advance rent, a security deposit, or other initial moving-in costs
- Able to provide supporting documentation (lease or rental agreement)
Note: The advance is intended for economy housing only. It is not authorized for government quarters or when government housing is available.
CONUS vs. OCONUS rules differ slightly regarding repayment when you vacate the housing, so be sure to check the applicable blocks on the form.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out AF Form 1039?
Filling out AF Form 1039 is straightforward but must be accurate to avoid processing delays. Here’s how to complete each section:
- Member’s Identification Data
- Enter your full name (Last, First, MI), grade/rank, and SSN.
- Request Section
- Check the appropriate boxes for the type of advance:
- Advance Rent
- Security Deposit
- Moving-In Expense
- Other (specify)
- Enter the total advance requested and anticipated occupancy date.
- Indicate CONUS or OVERSEAS.
- Check the appropriate boxes for the type of advance:
- Certification by Member
- Read and check the policy statements. You certify that:
- The advance is for legitimate housing expenses
- You understand repayment rules
- You authorize payroll deduction if the advance is not fully repaid
- You have not double-dipped with advance pay for the same expenses
- Read and check the policy statements. You certify that:
- Approving Official (completed by your commander)
- The unit commander reviews, signs, dates, and may note any reason for extension or special approval.
- Repayment Section
- Enter your proposed repayment schedule (standard is 12 months).
- Provide justification if requesting more than 12 months (up to 24 months maximum in most cases).
Pro Tip: Print clearly or use the fillable PDF version. Always attach a copy of your signed lease or rental agreement.
Required Supporting Documents
To get your AF Form 1039 approved quickly, bring:
- Signed lease or rental agreement
- Itemized list of anticipated expenses (if “Other” is checked)
- Any additional justification for extensions or exceptions
Your unit commander signs the form, then forwards the approved AF Form 1039 to the Financial Management Flight (FMF) for processing and payment via EFT (direct deposit).
Repayment Rules and Timeline
- Standard repayment: 12 equal monthly installments (minimum $50 per month)
- Maximum term: 24 months or the end of your tour of duty/PCS, whichever comes first (with commander justification)
- Timing of payment: Normally disbursed no more than 3 workdays before the payment is due under your lease, and within 30 days after occupancy (exceptions require written commander approval)
- Consequences of non-repayment: Automatic payroll deduction; must be fully repaid before PCS or separation
If you vacate the housing early, any unused portion (especially overseas) must be repaid immediately or offset from your pay.
Where to Submit AF Form 1039?
- Complete the form and attach supporting documents.
- Get your unit commander’s signature.
- Submit the package to your base Finance Office / Financial Management Flight (FMF).
- Payment is usually processed within a few business days.
Many bases also accept the form during in-processing or PCS briefings.
Official Download Links for AF Form 1039 (2026)
✅ Direct official downloads (provided by the user):
These are the most current versions hosted on the official Air Force e-Publishing system. Always verify you have the APR 87 edition before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I request an advance housing allowance more than once?
A: Yes, but each request requires a new AF Form 1039 and fresh justification/lease.
Q: Is advance BAH taxable?
A: No—BAH advances are generally non-taxable, just like regular BAH.
Q: What if my commander denies the request?
A: You can ask for clarification or provide additional documentation. Denial is rare if all requirements are met.
Q: Does this apply to Guard/Reserve?
A: Primarily active-duty; check with your unit for specific Title 10/32 rules.
Final Tips for Success
- Start the process early—ideally as soon as you have a signed lease.
- Keep copies of everything for your records.
- Coordinate with your base Housing Office and Finance Office for the latest local guidance.
- Remember: This advance is a loan against your future BAH—plan your budget accordingly to repay on time.
By using AF Form 1039 correctly, you can ease the financial burden of moving into a new home without dipping into savings or taking on high-interest debt.
Need the form right now?
👉 Download AF Form 1039 PDF
For the most authoritative guidance, always refer to AFMAN 65-116 Volume 2 and your local Finance Office. Safe travels and happy house hunting!
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on current Air Force policy as of 2026. Policies can change—verify with your unit commander or Finance Office before submitting any request.