Approximately two months prior to your start date with Microsoft, you will be contacted by Cartus, Microsoft’s Relocation supplier, and assigned a Relocation Specialist who will be your primary point of contact throughout the entire relocation process and will coordinate all applicable support on your behalf. All relocation benefits must be used within 12 months of the start of your job responsibilities.
You will be eligible to choose one of the relocation options:
<aside> 💡 Tl:dr Lump sum you just get the one time pre paid card and do everything on your own. This option is best if you don't need a moving company (ie all your stuff can fit in a suitcase or two, and/or a car you drive to WA) full relo is better otherwise
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Your relocation lump sum payment of USD 5,500 (might have changed since 2020 check your offer letter) will be coordinated by your Relocation Specialist.
The form of payment is a pre-paid bank card, which can be requested by your Relocation Specialist up to 45 days prior to your start/transfer date and, if applicable, after the visa is approved. The pre-paid bank card will be issued and mailed to your departure address by a designated Microsoft supplier. When you get it you'll be able to transfer the funds right to your bank account
The card is valid for one year from date of issuance and any remaining balance will not be available after the one-year date.
<aside> 💡 Tl:dr If you have a need for a moving company anything more than a suitcase or two of stuff full relo is the way to go, especially with a need to ship furniture, a vehicle, etc..
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Please refer to your offer letter for an extensive outline of the full relocation benefits
Flying: You can opt to get airfare provided. You can provide preferences for your seat location (window, aisle...) departure airport and meal options