TDY Entitlements: What the Government Covers

TDY entitlements determine what expenses the government covers during temporary duty travel. Understanding these allowances ensures you receive everything you deserve while staying within regulatory boundaries.

Per Diem Components

Per diem breaks into two categories: meals and incidental expenses plus lodging. The M&IE rate provides a flat daily amount regardless of actual food spending. Lodging reimburses actual costs up to the published maximum for your location.

Rates vary dramatically by location. Major metropolitan areas and certain overseas locations command premium rates. Checking the Defense Travel Management Office website provides current rates for any destination.

Transportation Entitlements

Transportation costs between your home station and TDY location are reimbursable. The system compares costs of different modes and generally approves the most economical. When mission requirements justify more expensive options, proper authorization enables reimbursement.

Privately owned vehicle mileage follows published rates that attempt to cover fuel, wear, and other vehicle costs. Choosing to drive rather than fly requires cost comparison showing driving is advantageous or mission-required.

Special Entitlements

Certain situations trigger additional entitlements. Traveling on weekends or holidays may affect rates. Long TDYs over 30 days in the same location can reduce per diem after the initial period. Understanding these variations prevents surprises.

Family separation allowance may apply to extended TDYs depending on your status and the trip’s duration. These additional pays help offset the burden of prolonged time away from dependents.

What Is Not Covered

Personal expenses during TDY remain your responsibility. Entertainment, personal phone charges, and non-duty-related transportation fall outside entitlements. The line between covered and personal expenses sometimes blurs, so maintaining conservative interpretation prevents audit problems.

Knowing both what you can claim and what you cannot helps maximize legitimate reimbursement while maintaining ethical standards expected of government travelers.