Can I receive a cash advance?
In accordance with agency policy, you may obtain cash to cover all anticipated out-of-pocket cash expenses for the trip before you leave. The preferred and most efficient method to obtain a cash advance is by using your government travel account to withdraw cash from an ATM machine. As a reminder, do not withdraw cash for personal use.
How do I get my airline tickets?
Most TMCs/ CTOs use e-ticketing and will send your itinerary and ticket confirmation through email. With e-ticketing, you will not get a physical ticket, only information about the reservation. If your TMC/CTO mails airline tickets, pick up your ticket as close to the date of departure as possible.
Note: Federal employees may retain, for personal use, frequent flyer miles earned while on official government travel.
Travel Checklist
When packing for your trip, don’t forget:
- Your Government issued picture ID card/ badge or driver's license.
- A copy of your travel authorization.
- Your GSA SmartPay travel account to pay for official travel expenses.
- Personal cash or personal credit cards to pay for personal expenses.
- Lodging tax exempt forms; if required.
- A record of expenses - write them down and save receipts. Lodging receipts are required by all agencies. Follow agency policy with regard to other receipts.
Below is a quick snapshot of what is and is not reimbursable while on your trip:
IS REIMBURSABLE:
- Airfare and baggage fees
- Maximum lodging amount allowed for the per diem locality excluding lodging tax
- Meals (up to the rate for the per diem locality)
- Personal calls (per agency policy)
- Work related telephone calls and faxing
- Laundry and dry cleaning (at the TDY location and only after consecutive nights lodging on official domestic travel)
- Car rental (approved)
- Shuttle, taxi, and tips
- ATM fees if allowed by your agency (cash advances for official travel only)
IS NOT REIMBURSABLE:
- Business or First Class air fares without prior written approval
- Amount in excess of lodging amount allowed for the per diem locality unless previously approved
- Meal costs over the rate for the per diem locality
- Personal calls (per agency policy)
- Gifts and souvenirs
- Postcards and postage
- Personal Expenses