Paperwork, Explained
Statement of Non-Availability — Ramstein TLA Guide
What it is, when you need one, and who actually issues it.
the short answer
Do I Have to Stay On Base?
No — TLA to the KMC isn't an on-base-only benefit. On-base lodging fills up during PCS season (it has a 30-day stay cap), and when it does, the on-base Lodging Office issues a Statement of Non-Availability that authorizes an off-base stay reimbursed at your TLA rate. The key is the paperwork, not the location.
Always confirm your specific case with your gaining unit's finance office and the on-base Lodging Office before booking — availability, your authorized rate, and whether an SNA is required can change, and it's your finance office that ultimately authorizes your claim. We'll walk you through the process.
What Is a Statement of Non-Availability?
A Statement of Non-Availability (SNA) — sometimes called a Letter of Non-Availability (LNA) — is written confirmation from the base lodging office that the on-base Temporary Lodging Facility (TLF) is full, or otherwise can't accommodate you for your dates.
It matters because it's the document that supports your case for full TLA reimbursement when you stay off-base instead of at the TLF. Without it, your claim may be treated differently, depending on your orders and your service's specific rules.
When You Need One
This mostly applies to Active Duty personnel on PCS orders filing a TLA claim for off-base lodging. If the on-base TLF is full for your dates — which happens often during peak PCS season — the Lodging Office issues the SNA, and you attach it to your claim.
On-base Temporary Lodging Facilities also have limited capacity and a 30-day stay cap — one of the most common triggers for an SNA during a busy PCS season. If you're displaced once that on-base cap runs out, you can move off-base for your remaining TLA days once the Lodging Office issues the letter.
Traveling with more than two pets? On-base lodging does allow pets, but it's capped at two per unit — so families with a bigger crew, or arriving when the pet-friendly units are already full, have a legitimate reason to request a non-availability determination too.
TDY personnel, GS civilians on TQSA, contractors, and guests staying for personal or medical reasons (visiting LRMC, for example) frequently have different requirements. Rules vary by unit and command, so it's always worth a quick check with your finance or housing office before you assume either way.
Who Issues It
The Ramstein Lodging Office issues the SNA — not Mumo's Inn, and not any off-base landlord. You can reach them at DSN 480-5594. For current hours, location, and any updated contact details, the official Ramstein Air Base site is the source to check.
Official Ramstein Air Base siteSteps to Get Your SNA
Check TLF availability
Contact the Ramstein Lodging Office as early as possible with your projected arrival date.
Request the SNA
If the TLF can't accommodate you, ask the Lodging Office to issue a Statement of Non-Availability in writing.
Book your off-base stay
Reach out to us on WhatsApp with your dates so we can confirm availability alongside your paperwork.
File your TLA claim
Bring the SNA, your orders, and our itemized invoice to the KMC Housing Office when you file.
common questions
SNA Questions, Answered
Once You Have Your Paperwork Sorted
Sorting paperwork already?
Book While You Wait on the SNA
You don't need the letter in hand to reserve your dates — reach out anytime.
Most guests with an SNA are fully covered by their TLA — we make the paperwork painless with clean, itemized, audit-ready invoices your finance office will accept.