MS relocation, anyone familar? (Seattle, Oso: rent, credit card, how much)

[seakid]

Hello,

I'm a bit nerved to ask this to my relo specialist, since I'm still a ways away. but is anyone familar with the MSFT relocation lump sum package? ($5000)

It says, they provide you a debit card by a MSFT approved provider and that you can use that to make purchases etc. The other package is the full package where MSFT handles all the cost of moving, but you don't get anything.


It also mentions that there are fees or sometihng with these cards if you withdraw cash or something ...

I'm wondering if I can use this for any expenditure I might have to move to MSFT, a car repair, etc.?

[tx_heat]

It is of course depends if you have a family and how much stuff you have, but it seems that the full package could be worth more than 10x times more that amount (if you have a house to sell, buy and so on).

We are in the process of being moved by the MS but we are family of 4, homeowners.

[seakid]

Single, college student, no belongings :-) except a computer! and clothes! Do you know of the lump sum option? Can it be cashed?

[tx_heat]

No, I do not know about that option and how it works

[kilgore trout]

I don't think you can just "cash out," but I do think you can pull some from the card. This is all 100% speculation, though, and could be 100% wrong.

Don't feel bad to ask your relo-coordinator about this. I'm sure it wouldn't be the first time they've heard the question.

Based on what you've said (no real personal belongings to move, etc) I can see how the $5000 makes more sense for you. It will actually be much less complex as well (the full relo is great, but there's a lot to handle).

I would just wait until closer to your actual move time and ask about how the lump sum option works.

j-

[41Willys]

I would rent an RV, put it on the card and take the scenic route to Seattle!

[ElkHunter]

I can't vouche for MS. But I relocated for a company not too long ago. It was a pre-paid credit card. So if I wanted a 6 pack of beer, I could use it. But I had to show up at the new company on the date specified. It actually cost me about $3000 to move. The other $2k bought me a beer or three. It was a flat $5k to move no matter what it cost me. Give them a call and ask them.

[seakid]

Aha Scenic route! From Ames, IA to Seattle, WA!

[baba_yaga]

They will give you guidelines on use of the card and the budget. You also should have a relo specialist contact with whom you can discuss these questions.

Edit: Sorry, just noticed you already have a relo specialist. Get some cojones and ask her. That's what she's there for.

[jwb123]

I am sure regular meals are expected expenses. A minor car repair would probably be fine if you are using that car to drive yourself here. Just be wary because MICROSOFT KNOWS EVERYTHING.

You think I am kidding? Someone WILL see what you buy... it goes through someone... they really do see everything....