Changes to claims process could be costly to those who PCS Published June 17, 2008 By 48th Fighter Wing Legal Office RAF LAKENHEATH, England -- Most people know that if household goods are damaged during a permenant change of station move, there is a claims process to have the items replaced or repaired. What some may not know is that the claims process has undergone some important changes. If these new procedures aren't followed, those moving could end up without money for lost or damaged goods. The Process: Step One: File 1840/1840R (Pink Form) online within 70 days from the date of delivery. -- If you mail the form directly to the carrier, be sure to get a return receipt. -- Claims aren't actually filed until the online process is completed or the carrier has been contacted and a claim is filed with them. Step Two: File within nine months directly with the carrier in order to get the full replacement value. -- If you file after nine months, file with the Air Force Claims Service Center, but only depreciated replacement costs or reasonable costs required to repair damaged items will be provided. -- Estimates aren't required unless you are asked to do get them. The Carrier's Options: Full replacement does not mean that you will get all new items. The carrier has the option to: 1) Replace the items with a new or used like item. 2) Pay the full value of the items; or 3) Repair the damaged items. Questions: Although the Legal Office is happy to assist, all questions regarding damaged household goods should be directed to the Air Force Claims Service Center. Air Force Claims Service Center Helpdesk: DSN: 94- 312-986-8044 or Commercial: 011-44-1-877-754-1212 Available 24 hours a day. The new claims filing process is for your convenience. With online filing, you no longer have to take time out of your day to come into the Claims Office just to file your Pink Form. The new process enables you to file your claim at your convenience from home, online, at any time day or night.