Why Most Military Families Lack Enough Personal Property Insurance to Cover CIF Gear—And How to Fix It

For military families, adaptability isn't just a skill—it's a way of life. Frequent moves, changing duty stations, and unpredictable deployments mean packing, unpacking, and adjusting to new homes on a regular basis. Amid this whirlwind, one critical detail often gets overlooked: having enough personal property insurance to cover military-issued gear, specifically CIF (Central Issue Facility) equipment.

The Overlooked Gap in Coverage

Most military families are diligent about protecting their belongings—furniture, electronics, personal valuables—but few realize that their standard personal property policy might not cover CIF gear adequately. CIF-issued equipment, which includes uniforms, field gear, protective equipment, and specialty items necessary for duty, is technically government property. But if it's lost, stolen, or damaged, the financial responsibility falls on the service member.

Without the right insurance coverage, service members can face hefty replacement costs for missing or damaged gear—sometimes totaling hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Why Military Families Are Underinsured

Several factors contribute to this gap in personal property insurance:

1. Misunderstanding Coverage Limits – Many assume their policy covers all personal possessions, but military-issued gear often falls into a gray area. Some policies exclude government property altogether.
2. Frequent Moves Complicate Policies – PCS (Permanent Change of Station) orders mean adjusting coverage every time you move. With each new policy, terms may change, leaving CIF gear unprotected.
3. Underestimating the Value of CIF Equipment – Service members don't always realize how expensive their issued equipment is until they're responsible for replacing it out-of-pocket.

The Solution: Smart Insurance Planning

To avoid unnecessary financial strain, military families should take these proactive steps:

• Review Your Personal Property Insurance Policy – Ask specifically whether military-issued gear is covered. If not, look into endorsements or riders that add protection for government property.
• Consider a Separate Personal Property Policy – Some insurers offer standalone coverage for high-value gear, including CIF equipment.
• Document Everything – Keeping an updated inventory with photos and receipts can streamline claims if something happens.
• Work with a Military-Savvy Insurance Agent – Choose an agent who understands the unique needs of military families. They can recommend tailored solutions that prevent coverage gaps.

Final Thoughts

Military life comes with enough challenges—unexpected gear replacement costs shouldn’t be one of them. By taking a few extra steps to secure the right personal property insurance, service members can ensure their CIF gear is covered, giving them one less thing to worry about in the middle of deployments, PCS moves, and everyday life.

If you’re unsure whether your current policy protects your military-issued equipment, now is the time to check. A little preparation today can save a lot of stress (and money) down the road.