Moving Often as a Service Member: Tracking Your Address History
Three PCS moves, a deployment, and a stint in the barracks can turn Section 11 into a puzzle. Here's how to rebuild it and keep it current.
The Short Answer
Section 11 of the SF-86 asks where you have lived for the last 10 years, with no gaps. Military moves don't change that rule. You list where you physically lived, including barracks and base housing. Follow the form's instructions for APO/FPO addresses and deployments.
Where to Find Old Military Addresses
| Source | What it gives you |
|---|---|
| PCS orders | Report dates and duty stations |
| Household goods shipment records | Pickup and delivery addresses |
| Base housing lease or assignment letter | Unit address and move-in dates |
| Credit reports | Off-post addresses and approximate dates |
| Leave and Earnings Statements | Duty station and housing allowance changes |
| Old email | Lease, utility, and move confirmations |
Common Military Address Snags
- Barracks. List the building and installation address you lived at.
- Deployments and TDY. Check the form's instructions for how to show time away from your permanent address.
- APO/FPO mail. A mailing address isn't always where you lived; read each field carefully.
- Back-to-back moves. Make move-out and move-in dates line up so there's no gap.
- Verifiers. A former roommate, neighbor, or supervisor from that duty station can work. Reach out early.
Keep It Current Going Forward
Log each move the week it happens. ClearanceTrail was built by an Army veteran who rebuilt his own address history this way. Its timeline has an Add Military Housing option and flags any gap before you open NBIS eApp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I list barracks on the SF-86?
Yes. Section 11 asks where you lived, and that includes barracks and base housing. Follow the form's instructions for the address format.
Is an APO or FPO address my residence?
Not necessarily. It's a mailing address. List where you physically lived and follow the form's instructions for military addresses.
How do I find an address from years ago?
Start with PCS orders, household goods records, and your credit reports, then fill gaps from old email and leases.