If a member without dependents takes leave in CONUS, when does OCOLA stop?

The correct answer is that OCOLA, or Overseas Cost of Living Allowance, stops after 30 days for a member without dependents who takes leave in CONUS (Continental United States). This is in accordance with military pay regulations that dictate the ongoing entitlement for OCOLA.

When a service member is stationed overseas, they receive OCOLA to offset the higher living costs in that location. However, upon returning to CONUS for leave, the rationale for continuing this allowance changes because the need for such compensation diminishes in a lower-cost environment.

The regulation explicitly states that for members without dependents, the allowance ceases after 30 days of leave in the CONUS. This timeline is designed to reflect typical leave periods while ensuring that the military's financial systems reflect the actual living costs pertinent to the member’s current situation.

Entitlements beyond 30 days would not apply as the member would be expected to revert to CONUS living standards, which do not necessitate the extra financial support provided by OCOLA. Thus, the clear cutoff at 30 days acts as a policy to manage funds more effectively and align with expected living conditions.