PCSing Your Business Like A Pro with Megan Harless
A Military Spouse Small Business Podcast: Owning Up
Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (traffic.libsyn.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.
Show Notes
In this episode, AMSE CEO and Founder Moni sits down with Megan Harless, founder of PCS Like A Pro, to discuss everything military spouse business owners need to know about moving their businesses during a PCS. From maximizing reimbursements to managing the stress of relocation, Megan shares insider knowledge on regulations, documentation, and strategies that can save military families thousands of dollars. This conversation covers the often-overlooked financial benefits available to spouses, common costly mistakes, and practical tools for making your next PCS smoother for both your family and your business.
_*]:min-w-0"> Key Takeaways _*]:min-w-0">Money & Reimbursements:
- Military spouses can get reimbursed for licenses, certifications, equipment moving, permits, registrations, and technology upgrades
- Each service branch offers up to $1,000 for business costs and $1,000 for licensing (up to $2,000 total)
- These reimbursements are IN ADDITION to regular PCS moving expenses
- You must have established your business at your current or previous duty station to qualify
Documentation Essentials:
- Keep all receipts and invoices (set up email filters to auto-sort into folders)
- Required documents: service-specific verification form, PCS orders, current/previous licenses, new state licenses, fee payment receipts, and marriage certificate
- Use apps like Stride or Google Drive to organize and store documentation
- Document everything as you go—don't wait until tax season
Tax Implications:
- You CANNOT double-dip—if the military reimburses an expense, you cannot claim it on your taxes
- Consider Schedule C for self-employed individuals for non-reimbursed expenses
- Contact a tax professional as soon as you know you're moving
- Keep business and personal expenses separate and well-documented
Timeline Strategy:
_*]:min-w-0">Before the Move:
- Research requirements for establishing business in your new state
- Print and prepare reimbursement forms
- Get quotes for moving specialty equipment
- Notify clients as soon as possible about your moving timeline
During the Move:
- Communicate with clients about service interruptions
- Share your journey on business social media (humanizes your brand)
- Set expectations for response times and availability
- Create a "last chance" promotion if applicable
After the Move:
- Re-register your business in the new state
- Update tax information (city, state, IRS)
- Submit reimbursement packet immediately
- Network in local military and civilian communities
- Join Facebook groups for your new area
We love how our listeners support the mission of AMSE and the Owning Up podcast. As we continue to grow, advocate, and support military spouse entrepreneurs, we wanted to offer that same chance to you, our listeners. For only $5 - you can increase our reach within our community - locally, nationally, and globally. Visit Glow.fm/owningup to become an Owning Up supporter today!
We'd love to have you join our fantastic community!
-
Join the ASSOC. OF MILITARY SPOUSE ENTREPRENEUR COMMUNITY: https://www.amsemembers.com/
- Learn more about AMSE at www.amseagency.com
- Follow Monika Jefferson on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook
- Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook
"Once a spouse, always a spouse" - Supporting military spouse entrepreneurs in every season of their journey.