PSC T-PAX/Travel News Feed

You can add this news feed to your "RSS" program (described below) or you can elect to have news updates sent via e-mail by joining our mailing list.

To use this feed in your RSS reader software you will need the web address (URL) of this page -- http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg1/psc/travel/t-pax/rss.xml.

Google has a free RSS Reader that doesn't require you to install any software (Perfect for CGSWS users!) Go to http://www.google.com/reader, setup an account and subscribe to this feed.

Subscribe with Google

Submit News Updates

If you have a news item to share, please send it to us using our News Update Form.

T-PAX Full Access Restored

Published Date: Fri, 19 Sep 2008 14:40:05 CDT

T-PAX is now available for normal usage. Be sure to visit our Evacuation Travel Voucher Assistance page if you are using T-PAX to submit evacuation travel claims. We recently added a brief Power Point presentation that demonstrates the process for submitting these types of claims. You can use T-PAX for evacuation claims if evacuees (member &/or dependents) are traveling from PDS to ordered Safe Haven and back to PDS and have no extraordinary reimbursable items.


Read the full item.

Natural Disaster Emergency Travel and Transportation Allowances for Military Members

Published Date: Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:40:04 CDT

Upon a mandatory evacuation order, the following general travel and transportation allowances apply:

  • Uniformed servicemembers: Members who are ordered to evacuate an area are in a TDY status to a designated safe haven (temporary) location listed on their orders. Travel and transportation allowances are based on the safe haven location. Active duty members are not to be included on dependents evacuation orders. Reserve component members who are not on active duty are not authorized evacuation TDY orders.
  • Dependents: Dependents who are ordered to evacuate an area are in a TDY status to a designated safe haven location listed on their orders. Travel and transportation allowances are based on the safe haven location.
  • Evacuation status termination: When a member returns from a safe haven location with one or more dependents, all evacuation allowances cease for the entire family regardless of the location of other dependents. COMDT (CG-1222) may direct the early return of dependents, and termination of evacuation allowances, in certain areas before the evacuation period termination date. When requested through the members chain of command, COMDT (CG-1222) may authorize one or more of the dependents to remain at the evacuation safe haven location with appropriate allowances.
  • Reserve Members: Members of the Reserve Component serving on active duty, and their dependents, may be authorized evacuation allowances if the principal residence of the reserve component member called or ordered to active duty is in the vicinity of the evacuated duty station.
  • Travel Allowances: Local travel allowances in the vicinity of the safe haven or designated place (area where family sets up a more permanent Household) must not be paid if reimbursement is being received for expenses incurred in renting a motor vehicle.
  • Alternate Safe Havens: Requests for alternate OCONUS safe havens evacuations must be approved by COMDT CG-1222 before evacuation allowances will be paid.
  • Designated place: COMDT CG-1222 must approve the requests for members desiring to convert the safe haven to a designated place, including, if the designated place has a higher BAH rate, payment of applicable BAH for the requested designated place.


Read the full item.

Hurricane Ike Evacuation Orders and Travel Claim Assistance

Published Date: Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:50 CDT

PSC's Evacuation Travel Voucher Assistance page provides a helpful summary of the information available for preparing and submitting travel claims due to an evacuation.

The page was updated today with the accounting string and the date/time group of the evacuation authorization message issued by Commander, Coast Guard District Eight, which authorized evacuation orders for hurricane Ike.

Our travel branch has prepared a Power Point presentation which demonstrates submitting evacuation travel vouchers in T-PAX:

Unfortunately, we are still experiencing performance issues with T-PAX and only allowing a limited number of concurrent users access to the system. Troubleshooting of the system is continuing and we hope to restore full access shortly.


Read the full item.

T-PAX Limited Access

Published Date: Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:05:01 CDT

T-PAX is available today for a limited number of concurrent users (approximately 100 at a time).

If you are not able to connect please try again later.


Read the full item.

T-PAX Outage for Maintenance

Published Date: Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:45:01 CDT

T-PAX will be offline from 0600 (CDT), Saturday, 06 September to 0600 (CDT), Sunday, 07 September to address performance and software issues. T-PAX will be available for a limited number of users after the maintenance period. If you are unable to connect, please try again later.


Read the full item.

T-PAX Performance and Software Errors

Published Date: Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:35:01 CDT

T-PAX is available for a limited number of users. If you are unable to connect, please try again later.

  • The imaging function of receipts and orders is not always working properly and has been disabled.
  • Local, SF-1164, travel claims are freezing when the user tries to input the accounting line. Until this issue is resolved, please use Normal, 1351-2, travel settlement claims, do not input an itinerary, and input your expenses on the reimbursable tab to file your local expenses.

FINCEN and PSC technicians are working on these issues. No estimated time of repair is available at this time. T-PAX may be on/offline sporadically this weekend as testing and performance tuning continues. Check http://cgweb.fincen.uscg.mil/metaframe.htm for the latest status.


Read the full item.

Economy Class Upgrades Are Not Reimbursable Expenses

Published Date: Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:35:01 CDT

Some airlines are offering preferred seating in coach class (for example, aisle, window, exit row, or seating in the front rows of the coach section) for an additional fee. Such fees incurred as a result of personal choice are not reimbursable. However, if you are assigned a seat considered preferred seating, and you book your flight through a Government Contract Travel Management Center (TMC) no additional charges will be incurred.

Source: ALCOAST 405/08


Read the full item.

Use of a Travel Management Center (TMC) is Mandatory

Published Date: Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:35:01 CDT

Members are reminded that all official travel must be arranged through a Government Contract Travel Management Center (TMC), even if a non-contract fare is being purchased. Use of restricted and/or penalty fares require AO authorization. A government traveler who uses restricted or penalty fare flights without authorization may be required to bear additional costs and penalties and may have to bear the personal financial burden for cancellations and changes.

If a TMC is not available and the traveler purchases common carrier transportation at personal expense, reimbursement is limited to the constructed or estimated commercial transportation cost between authorized points.

Source: ALCOAST 405/08


Read the full item.

Reimbursement for Excess Baggage Fees (Update 2)

Published Date: Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:35:01 CDT

In accordance with Joint Federal Travel Regulations (JFTR), VOL. 1 (Para U3015, and appendices (A) and (G)), accompanied baggage in excess of the maximum weight, size, or number of pieces carried at no additional cost (free) by a transportation carrier is excess accompanied baggage. Effective immediately, authorizing/order-issuing officials (AOs) may indicate on all travel orders that excess baggage is authorized, reimbursement not to exceed $75. Receipts are required with submission of travel claims. Should a member incur excess baggage fees in excess of $75, the AO should verify that the claim for reimbursement is proper and in accordance with Para U3015 of the JFTR. The AO must ensure that all claims for excess baggage charges are limited to the personal effects of a traveler necessary for official travel and are immediately needed upon arrival at the point of assignment. Material/equipment belonging to the government may be included as authorized excess baggage. Travelers who purchase airline tickets to accommodate circuitous or personal convenience travel, in conjunction with official travel, are entitled to reimbursement for excess baggage costs that would have been incurred if the entire trip was for official travel.

Some airlines may exempt government travelers from paying excess baggage fees but may require travelers to present government IDs and/or copies of official travel orders at time of check-in. Coast Guard travelers should be prepared to present military or government IDs and copies of official travel orders at the time baggage is checked in. Checked baggage fees cannot be charged to the Coast Guard Centrally Billed Account (CBA). Travelers who have their airline tickets charged to a Coast Guard CBA must be prepared to pay any assessed baggage fees at the time the bags are checked with the airlines. Checked baggage fees can be charged to the travelers individually billed government travel charge cards and claimed on travel vouchers as line items for miscellaneous reimbursable expenses.

Source: ALCOAST 405/08

GSA has published the Baggage Allowance Fact Sheet to help military and federal travelers determine if they may be exempt from the new fees. The fact sheet is specific to those carriers under the City Program contract. It is intended to provide information and protect travelers under the contracted fares. The fact sheet shows the fee charged or if an exception is allowed by the carriers.


Read the full item.

Transition to New Government Travel Charge Card

Published Date: Wed, 13 Aug 2008 13:35:01 CDT

ALCOAST 386/08 provides initial information on the upcoming Government Travel Charge Card transition from Citibank to JPMorgan Chase (JPMC) and how we as a team can help facilitate a smooth and successful transition.

Resources referenced in ALCOAST 386/08:

  1. Direct Access Unit Travel Charge Card Report (Procedure)
  2. CB002 Government Purchase or Travel Card Maintenance
  3. Department ID Travel Charge Card Hierarchy Relationship Report: This report is available in CGCENTRAL. The path is: My Workspace > Travel > Temporary Assigned Duty (TAD) > Government Travel Charge Card Program. The report is listed under Supporting Documents.

Read the full item.

TDY Mileage Rate Change

Published Date: Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:35:01 CDT
Effective 01 August 2008, the TDY mileage rate changes from $.505/mile to $.585/mile. See JFTR/JTR Immediate Changes (CH 292) for more information at http://www.perdiem.osd.mil/regchgs.htm.
Read the full item.

New Airline Baggage Fees (Update)

Published Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:35:01 CDT

Note: ALCOAST 405/08 (22 Aug 08) provides new procedures for reimbursement of excess baggage fees.

Many airlines are charging additional fees for checked baggage. GSA has published the Baggage Allowance Fact Sheet to help military and federal travelers determine if they may be exempt from the new fees. The fact sheet is specific to those carriers under the City Program contract. It is intended to provide information and protect travelers under the contracted fares. The fact sheet shows the fee charged or if an exception is allowed by the carriers.

ALCOAST 333/08 - AIRLINE CHECKED BAGGAGE FEE AND AIRLINE FUEL SURCHARGE

This message provides the procedure for claiming reimbursement for checked baggage fees. Note that your travel order must specifically authorize reimbursement for Excess Baggage in order for you to be reimbursed.


Read the full item.

Policy and Procedures for Purchase of Airline Tickets

Published Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:32:01 CDT

ALCOAST 334/08 - Use of the Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) Centrally Billed Account (CBA)

This message explains the proper use of the Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) Centrally Billed Account. It explains the documentation requirements and what travel can and cannot be charged to the GTCC. Additional resources for Government Travel Charge Cards (Both individually billed accounts and the CBA) can be found on our website at http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg1/psc/govttravelcard/


Read the full item.

PCS Mileage (MALT) Rate Change

Published Date: Mon, 07 July 2008 08:32:01 CDT
Effective 1 July 2008, the MALT (monetary allowance in lieu of transportation) rate per authorized POC (privately owed conveyance) is $.27 per mile. This rate is effective for all PCS travel that commences on or after 1 July 2008 (i.e., the initial travel is started).
Read the full item.

New Airline Baggage Fees

Published Date: Wed, 24 Jun 2008 14:00:01 CDT

Many airlines are charging additional fees for checked baggage. GSA has published the Baggage Allowance Fact Sheet to help military and federal travelers determine if they may be exempt from the new fees. The fact sheet is specific to those carriers under the City Program contract. It is intended to provide information and protect travelers under the contracted fares. The fact sheet shows the fee charged or if an exception is allowed by the carriers.


Read the full item.

Having trouble with your T-PAX secondary/confirmation password?

Published Date: Fri, 13 Jun 2008 14:00:01 CDT

Try entering it in all uppercase letters (e. g. "Test1234#" would be entered as "TEST1234#"). Secondary passwords stored in the system prior to the upgrade on 10 June were inadvertently converted to all uppercase letters.
Read the full item.

T-PAX Upgrade Complete

Published Date: Tue, 10 Jun 2008 14:00:01 CDT

The upgrade to T-PAX version 6.10 is complete and the system is available for use.

The version 6.10 Release Notice has been updated to provide more detail on the new Imaging Function. We added procedures for converting images and other files to Adobe Acrobat (PDF) file format.

We will soon be updating the T-PAX audit process to take advantage of the Imaging Function. We will still be sending out audit request/notifications by email, but you'll have the option of mailing us the package or adding the required receipts, amendments, etc. to the claim electronically. If you add the documentation electronically (using the T-PAX Imaging Function), you can just reply to our audit request email with the word "Scanned" in the subject line. Complete instructions will be in the audit request email when we're ready to start accepting audit packages electronically.


Read the full item.

T-PAX Upgrade - What's New?

Published Date: Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:00:01 CDT

A significant system upgrade will be completed on 10 June. This upgrade includes several enhancements. Including an imaging Function - The ability to attach receipts/orders/amendments to a travel claim. A complete list of enhancements is contained in the release notes.
Read the full item.

T-PAX Downtime Scheduled

Published Date: Fri, 30 May 2008 15:45:01 CDT

TPAX will be unavailable for use from 0600, Monday, June 9, to 1300, Tuesday, June 10, 2008 (CDT) for biannual maintenance/upgrade patches. Please have all travel claims processed through to PSC prior to 1800 June 8, 2008 to prevent loss.


Read the full item.

Repaying Overpayments by Check or Money Order

Published Date: Thu, 22 May 2008 15:45:01 CDT

It is no longer necessary to include your Social Security Number (SSN) on checks or money orders used to repay overpayments. Do be sure to include your 16 digit travel order number (TONO) on the check or money order so the payment can be processed accurately. Do NOT send any cash, checks, or money orders to PSC (tvl).

Please make your check or money order payable to "U.S. Coast Guard", and write your TONO on your payment. Include a copy of your official notice of travel overpayment letter and send your payment to:

U. S. COAST GUARD TRAVEL & ART
PO BOX 70969
CHARLOTTE, NC 28272-0969

Please see pages 2-B-17 to 2-B-20 of the Personnel and Pay Procedures Manual (PSCINST M1000.2a) for more information about travel claim audit procedures.


Read the full item.

Split Disbursement in T-PAX

Published Date: Thu, 15 May 2008 15:45:01 CDT

Per, ALCOAST 215/08, you can now designate all or part of your travel claim settlement amount to pay your Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) bill. Split disbursement is a function in which a payment is made to the member's government travel charge card (GTCC) on behalf of the member and any remaining balance is reimbursed to the member.


Read the full item.

April TPAX Unit Travel Claim Audit Reports

Published Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2008 12:45:01 CDT

This month's audit request reports (dated 14 April 2008) can be accessed via PSC's CGWEB(Intranet) site at http://cgweb.PSC.uscg.mil/travel/audits/default.asp. Enter the unit 7 digit OPFAC in the search box to find the link to your unit page. Each unit page provides links to 5 reports: 1st requests; 2nd requests; 3rd requests; suspended requests; and requests being recouped. Note: The unit pages also include reports from previous months, be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page for the 14 April 2008 reports.

When submitting audit packages to PSC, travelers should attach a copy of the audit request sheet to the top of their audit package. If unable to attach a copy of the original audit request, travelers may attach a copy of the unit report with their request highlighted or a copy of the audit request status with the correct request highlighted.

Travelers must have a valid/current uscg.mil or dhs.gov email address in TPAX so they can receive timely notification of audit requests. All personnel are strongly encouraged to update/validate their email addresses if they have not done so recently.

Audit reports for individual travelers are also available via the Coast Guard Finance Center's Internet site at https://www.fincen.uscg.mil/TVS_Aux2/.
Read the full item.

TPAX System Outages for Scheduled Maintenance

Published Date: Tue, 15 Apr 2008 12:40:01 CDT
A monthly window has been established for regular system and server maintenance. The outages are scheduled for every fourth Sunday of the month from 0600 to 0800 (Central time) beginning Sunday, 27 April 2008.
Read the full item.

Where's the sign on link for T-PAX?

Published Date: Thu, 03 Apr 2008 11:40:01 CDT

T-PAX is only accessible via the Coast Guard Standard Workstation. Just start Internet Explorer and click drop-down arrow next to the red "U. S. Coast Guard" banner on the Coast Guard toolbar and choose "FINCEN" from the list of links. This will take to you to the Finance Center's home page. Click the "Travel Portal" link from the list of "FINCEN Shortcuts" on the left hand side of the page. Select the "Launch TPAX" link to start the program.

The CG Toolbar provides quick access to TPAX

T-PAX can be accessed via CG Central by selecting the "Resources" and then selecting the "Applications" link. Click the "Launch TPAX (UTS)" link from the list of Coast Guard applications to start T-PAX.


Read the full item.

NATIONAL TRAVEL FORUM - ATLANTA JUNE 3 - 6

Published Date: Thu, 03 Apr 2008 11:40:01 CDT

The 2008 National Travel Forum is scheduled for June 3-6, 2008 in Atlanta. This biennial event was last held in Los Angeles in 2006.

Government Services Administration (GSA) has partnered with the National Business Travel Association (NBTA) and its Government Travel Group (GTG) to manage this year's meeting. NBTA has enlisted an advisory panel of experts from GSA, DOD and elsewhere inside the federal and state/local travel arenas to design and plan this government travel education program.

Registration Fees for Government Employees/Exhibitors:

  • On or before April 18, 2008 - $450
  • On or after April 19, 2008 - $500

This link: http://www.nationaltravelforum.org/Pages/default.aspx takes you to the NTF agenda (including M&IE information), on-line registration, and hotel/travel information.

On Tuesday, June 3, from 0800 to 1600, Coast Guard will conduct a training session (CG-1222: travel and transportation, CG-102: Government Travel Charge Card program, Travel Management Center issues, and SATO's new online booking engine "Get There" which is replacing Quality Agent, and PSC Topeka: travel branch. For those planning to attend the Coast Guard session only, there is no registration fee. Coast Guard has reserved seating for forty attendees for the June 3 session, geared toward (though not exclusively to) those working in SPOs in the YN2, YN1/GS-5 grades. Contact YNCM Maly at David.J.Maly@uscg.mil to reserve a seat for the Coast Guard session. If you wish to attend the entire NTF you need to register with NBTA (go to link above).


Read the full item.

How to Calculate the Cost of a GTR

Published Date: Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:40:01 CDT

When a member is authorized to travel on TDY using a Privately Owned Conveyance (POC) not to exceed (NTE) the cost of government procured transportation/GTR, the orders must state: "POC travel NTE the constructed cost of the GTR $XXX.XX;" with the actual dollar amount replacing the "X's". To calculate this amount, you must add together:

  1. the government airfare rate (You can lookup the contract carrier "city pair rates" at http://apps.fss.gsa.gov/citypairs/search/)
  2. any taxi fares and tips that would be appropriate to and from the airport and/or lodging accommodations, mileage and tolls that would be appropriate to and from the airport,
  3. airfare service fees,
  4. 75% of the M&IE per diem for two travel days,
  5. and the cost for a rental vehicle if one would had been authorized.

To determine which will be paid, add together total mileage multiplied by the current TDY mileage rate, tolls, total per diem for travel days (75% for first and last day and full per diem for each additional day of driving travel), and lodging costs (not to exceed max. lodging rate for that area) during travel if required to stop in route. The member will be entitled to the lesser of these amounts. Travel days and reimbursement WILL NOT exceed GTR limits. If there are extenuating circumstances, i.e. member is transporting unit equipment or flying to multiple destinations where the costs to the government would be much higher, then POV may be determined to be advantageous, in which case the orders need to specify and provide reason for decision. For more information, please refer to the following JFTR paragraphs: U3305-A1; U3305; U3325; U3310; U4330; U4326-B3; U4326-A2; U4145-B; and U4147-3.


Read the full item.

PCS Mileage (MALT) Rate Change

Published Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2008 09:40:01 CDT
Effective 1 January 2008, the MALT (monetary allowance in lieu of transportation) rate per authorized POC (privately owed conveyance) is $.19 per mile. This rate is effective for all PCS travel that commences on or after 1 January 2008 (i.e., the initial travel is started).
Read the full item.

Per Diem Rates

Published Date: Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:40:01 CDT
GSA has issued updates to CONUS Per Diem Rates for certain counties or boroughs in the following states: Alabama, California, Illinois, Missouri, New York, and Texas. See the Per Diem Rates section of the Per Diem Committee home page for details.
Read the full item.

March TPAX Unit Travel Claim Audit Reports

Published Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2008 12:50:00 CST

This month's audit request reports (dated 03 March 2008) can be accessed via PSC's CGWEB(Intranet) site at http://cgweb.PSC.uscg.mil/travel/audits/default.asp. Enter the unit 7 digit OPFAC in the search box to find the link to your unit page. Each unit page provides links to 5 reports: 1st requests; 2nd requests; 3rd requests; suspended requests; and requests being recouped. Note: The unit pages also include reports from previous months, be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page for the 03 March 2008 reports.

When submitting audit packages to PSC, travelers should attach a copy of the audit request sheet to the top of their audit package. If unable to attach a copy of the original audit request, travelers may attach a copy of the unit report with their request highlighted or a copy of the audit request status with the correct request highlighted.

Travelers must have a valid/current email address in TPAX so they can receive timely notification of audit requests. All personnel are strongly encouraged to update/validate their email addresses if they have not done so recently.

Audit reports for individual travelers are also available via the Coast Guard Finance Center's Internet site at https://www.fincen.uscg.mil/TVS_Aux2/.
Read the full item.

SATO Travel Services to Replace Quality Agent (Online Booking)

Published Date: Wed, 13 Feb 2008 13:20:01 CST
SATO is in the process of replacing our current online booking program (QA) with a new online booking program. Commandant (CG-102) anticipates the Coast Guard will transition to the new product sometime during the March/April time period.
Read the full item.

New SATO Services Fees

Published Date: Mon, 11 Feb 2008 12:20:01 CST

R 082050Z FEB 08 ZUI ASN-A00039000023 ZYBZ
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC//CG-102//
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS //N04600//
ALCOAST 065/08
COMDTNOTE 4600
SUBJ: NEW SATO SERVICE FEES

1. Effective 1 March 2008 SATO transaction service fees will be as follows:

  1. Self service domestic or international with or without common carrier transportation (air, rail, ship), 12 dollars and 50 cents (12.50). This is the fee when reservations are made using the SATO on-line booking engine. If a self service reservation includes a reservation on an exception carrier or at any time the reservation requires intervention by a SATO agent the service fee will be increased to the non-self service fee. A list of exception carriers is contained in quality agent (QA) bulletin titled exception carriers dated 7 Apr 2006. QA bulletins can be viewed by selecting the view bulletins option listed at the top of the QA web page after the QA log on screen.
  2. Non-self service domestic or international travel, 29 dollars and 65 cents (29.65).
  3. Non-self service lodging and/or car rental only, 8 dollars (8.00). This service is when no common carrier transportation is included with the reservation.
  4. On-site non-self service domestic or international travel, 35 dollars (35.00).
  5. Delivery cost of a paper ticket using overnight delivery service, 12 dollars (12.00).
  6. Delivery cost of a paper ticket using a courier delivery service, 37 dollars (37.00).

2. For questions, please contact Mr. Scott Arndt at (202) 475-3664, e-mail scott.r.arndt(at)uscg.mil or Mr. Les Weisbeck at (202) 475-3687, e-mail les.r.weisbeck(at)uscg.mil.

3. Internet release authorized.

4. RADM Clifford I. Pearson Assistant Commandant for Human Resources, sends.

BT
NNNN


Read the full item.

February TPAX Unit Travel Claim Audit Reports

Published Date: Thu, 07 Feb 2008 12:50:00 CST

This month's audit request reports (dated 04 February 2008) can be accessed via PSC's CGWEB(Intranet) site at http://cgweb.PSC.uscg.mil/travel/audits/default.asp. Enter the unit 7 digit OPFAC in the search box to find the link to your unit page, which contains 5 reports: 1st requests; 2nd requests; 3rd requests; suspended requests; and requests being recouped. Note: The unit pages also include reports from previous months, be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page for the 04 February 2008 reports.

When submitting audit packages to PSC, travelers should attach a copy of the audit request sheet to the top of their audit package. If unable to attach a copy of the original audit request, travelers may attach a copy of the unit report with their request highlighted or a copy of the audit request status with the correct request highlighted.

Travelers must have a valid/current email address in TPAX and DA so they can receive timely notification of audit requests. The recent transfer season as well as email migrations throughout the Coast Guard have resulted in many email address changes. All personnel are strongly encouraged to update/validate their email addresses.

Audit reports for individual travelers are also available via the Coast Guard Finance Center's Internet site at https://www.fincen.uscg.mil/TVS_Aux2/.
Read the full item.

Per Diem Committee Home Page Update

Published Date: Tue, 05 Feb 2008 14:20:01 CST

The following information was updated for 01 February 2008:

  • Foreign Per Diem Rates
  • Travel Regulations (JFTR and JTR)
  • DLA Rates
  • AFMAN 34-255

Read the full item.

TPAX Unit Travel Claim Audit Reports

Published Date: Wed, 09 Jan 2008 10:15:00 CST

The most recent audit request reports (dated 08 January 2008) can be accessed via PSC's CGWEB site at http://cgweb.PSC.uscg.mil/travel/audits/default.asp. Enter the unit 7 digit OPFAC in the search box to find the link to your unit page, which contains 5 reports: 1st requests; 2nd requests; 3rd requests; suspended requests; and requests being recouped. Note: The unit pages also include reports from previous months, be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page for the 08 January 2007 reports.

When submitting audit packages to PSC, travelers should attach a copy of the audit request sheet to the top of their audit package. If unable to attach a copy of the original audit request, travelers may attach a copy of the unit report with their request highlighted or a copy of the audit request status with the correct request highlighted.

Travelers must have a valid/current email address in TPAX and DA so they can receive timely notification of audit requests. The recent transfer season as well as email migrations throughout the Coast Guard have resulted in many email address changes. All personnel are strongly encouraged to update/validate their email addresses.

Audit reports for individual travelers are also available via the Coast Guard Finance Center's Internet site at https://www.fincen.uscg.mil/TVS_Aux2/.
Read the full item.

TPAX -- How Use the Forgotten Password Reset Feature

Published Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2007 12:00:00 CST
This procedural guide will walk you through the steps of requesting a new password and logging back on to the system. The reset procedure is pretty simple -- click the button!. However, when you log back on to the system (with your new password) one of the screens makes it look like you need to provide your "Secondary Password" to continue -- You don't!
Read the full item.

TPAX -- Save a Claim in Progress

Published Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2007 10:50:00 CST
There is a new feature in Tpax which allows a member to temporarily save a claim that has not been completed. This will put the claim in the status of "Hot Saved".
Read the full item.

TPAX Issue Resolved

Published Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2007 14:05:00 CST
The issue with AOs not being able to approve claims in TPAX has been resolved.
Read the full item.

Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) Policy and Procedures

Published Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2007 13:20:00 CST
ALCOAST 549/07 provides important reminders for proper use of your Government Travel Charge Card along with procedures for keeping your account information up to date.
Read the full item.

Travel Preparation and Examination (TPAX) Technical Issue

Published Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2007 09:00:00 CST

We are currently experiencing intermittent problems with AOs approving claims. Please try to approve claims again later as we are working to resolve this issue.

Travel System Support
For assistance:
Email: PSC-CustomerCare@uscg.mil
Phone: 785-339-2200 or 1-866-PSC-USCG (772-8724)
On-line trouble ticket: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg1/psc/ccb/
(Please ensure you include the tono, dates traveled, EMPLID and a description in your inquiry.)

Read the full item.

Special Instructions for Fiscal Year Crossover Travel Claims through TPAX

Published Date: Tue, 09 Oct 2007 13:05:01 CDT

Expenses incurred during a TDY period, DOC type (11 OR 13), that commences in FY07 and extends into FY08 are to charged to the FY as follows:

  • Airfare - post to fiscal year in which travel began
  • Parking - post to fiscal year charges were incurred
  • Hotel - post to fiscal year charges were incurred
  • Per diem - post to fiscal year charges were incurred
  • Rental car - post to fiscal year charges were incurred
  • Gas - paid when rental car is turned in


Read the full item.

October 2007 Foreign and OCONUS Per Diem

Published Date: Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:20:01 CDT
October 2007 Foreign and OCONUS Per Diem rates are now available for viewing at http://perdiem.hqda.pentagon.mil/perdiem/perdiemrates.html.
Read the full item.

CONUS Evacuation Entitlements

Published Date: Wed, 26 Sep 2007 12:20:01 CDT

The following immediate change to the JFTR was posted:

SUBJECT: CONUS Evacuation Rewrite

SYNOPSIS: Simplifies the language in JFTR, Chapter 6, Part B. It also makes the following changes or clarifications:

a. Changes "per diem" to "safe haven allowances" (throughout).
b. Adds that an oral evacuation authorization must be confirmed in writing (par. U6050-E).
c. Clarifies that sorting, repacking and shipment of HHG for a temporary withdrawal or split shipment is at Government's expense (par. U6056-C).
d. Allows reimbursement of an unexpired lease (up to 30 days), when authorized to return to the PDS or move to a designated place (par. U6054-B3). (Currently in DSSR 632.4 (c) for employees.)
e. Changes local travel allowances from discretionary and changes the words "in absence of a POV" to "when unable to drive a POV" to enable a family to use the allowance to purchase a used car or reimburse for the use of a relative's car (par. U6055).
f. Authorizes HHG transportation for dependents who convert the safe haven to a designated place (par. U6056-D3).
g. Clarifies that all dependents are authorized safe haven allowances - including those who turn 21 at the PDS or safe haven (par. U6054-A).
h. Clarifies that a dependent of a deceased member is authorized safe haven allowances if the member dies after the evacuation is authorized/ordered but before the dependent is evacuated from the PDS, or dies while the dependent is in an evacuation status from there.

Read the full item.

PCS Mileage/MALT Rate and Standard CONUS Lodging Rate Changes

Published Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2007 14:00:00 CDT

R 191749Z SEP 07 ZUI ASN-A00262000015
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC//CG-12//
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS //N01320//
ALCOAST 446/07
COMDTNOTE 1320
SUBJ: PCS MILEAGE/MALT RATE AND STANDARD CONUS LODGING RATE CHANGES
A. FEDERAL REGISTER, VOL. 72, NO. 123
B. JFTR, PAR. U5015
C. FTR PER DIEM BULLETIN 08-01

1. IAW ref a, the current rules on the use of a privately owned conveyance (POC) on permanent change of station (PCS) orders provide for tiered reimbursements for travel to the new duty station based on the number of authorized travelers per POC. Effective for PCS travel commencing on or after 25 Sep 2007, these tiered rates will be eliminated and a new rate of 20 cents per mile will be paid per vehicle. The mileage allowance in lieu of transportation (malt) paid will be determined by the official distance between authorized locations. If more than one member travels as an authorized traveler in the same POC, each member is authorized MALT for the official distance. An authorized traveler is a member or dependent traveling IAW PCS orders and whose transportation is to be reimbursed using a PCS order as authority. Only one authorized traveler may claim reimbursement for reimbursable expenses (e.g., parking fees, ferry fares, road, bridge and tunnel tolls).

2. Per ref b, when a member and dependents relocate on a member's PCS move, reimbursement is authorized for two POCs, if used. Reimbursement for the use of more than two POCs within the same household for PCS travel may be authorized/approved if determined to be appropriate through the Secretarial process.

3. IAW ref c, the General Services Administration Annual Per Diem Review has resulted in lodging and meal allowance changes for locations within the continental United States (CONUS). Effective 1 Oct 2007 for travel performed on or after that date, the standard CONUS lodging rate will increase to 70 dollars. All CONUS per diem rates may be found at http://perdiem.hqda.pentagon.mil/perdiem/perdiemrates.html.

4. COMDT (CG-1222) POC is YNCM Maly AT 202-475-5395.

5. Internet release authorized.

6. Released by CAPT M.C. Cosenza, Acting Director of Personnel Management.

BT
NNNN


Read the full item.

Household Goods Full Replacement Value and Customer Satisfaction Survey

Published Date: Wed, 12 Sep 2007 09:25:41 CDT

Full Replacement Value protection will apply to HHG shipments beginning October 1, 2007. Shipments covered by Full Replacement Value protection will be phased in and will apply as follows to HHG shipments picked up on or after:

  • 1 Oct 2007 for international shipments (to/from OCONUS),
  • 1 Nov 2007 for domestic shipments (within CONUS), and
  • 1 Mar 2008 for nontemporary storage (NTS) shipments, local move, and direct procurement method (DPM) shipments.

Read the full item.

FY2008 CONUS Per Diem Rates

Published Date: Mon, 20 Aug 2007 16:25:41 CDT
The FY 08 CONUS Per Diem Rates are now available for viewing at https://secureapp2.hqda.pentagon.mil/perdiem/perdiemrates.html.
Read the full item.

Official Passports and Visas Newsletter

Published Date: Fri, 03 Aug 2007 11:35:01 GMT
The Office of International Affairs (CG-00I) has published a newsletter with helpful information on obtaining official passports and visas.
Read the full item.

The Per Diem Committee Site is moving

Published Date: Mon, 23 Jul 2007 17:00:01 GMT
The Per Diem Committee Site is moving to a new location. The new address is http://perdiem.hqda.pentagon.mil/perdiem/. The new site is available now and will run concurrently with the existing site. This move will resolve the security certificate issue that many users are experiencing while accessing the current site. The existing site will shut down 30 September 2007 and redirect all users to the new address.
Read the full item.

ALCOAST 3461-07 - Recording Government Travel Charge Card Training

Published Date: Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:00:00 GMT
This message details the requirements for recording A/OPC Training and Cardholder Training in the Training Management Tool. Read ALCOAST 346-07
Read the full item.

Proper Use of Centrally Billed Travel Accounts

Published Date: Fri, 29 Jun 2007 12:20:01 GMT

ALCOAST 301-07 - Use of the Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) Centrally Billed Account (CBA), explains the proper use of the Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) Centrally Billed Account. It explains the documentation requirements and what travel can and cannot be charged to the GTCC. Read ALCOAST 301-07


Read the full item.

Government Travel Charge Card Policy and Procedures

Published Date: Fri, 29 Jun 2007 12:50:01 GMT

ALCOAST 283-07, provides some important reminders for the proper use of Government Travel Charge Cards along with procedures for keeping your account information up to date. Read ALCOAST 283-07


Read the full item.

New Initial Logon Procedures for First-Time T-PAX Users

Published Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:00:01 GMT

For a first time user to logon to T-PAX, you must first obtain a password from PSC Customer Care


Read the full item.

T-PAX System Password Requirements

Published Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:00:01 GMT

New passwords must be 9 characters in length, consisting of at least 1 number 1 lowercase letter and one upper case letter.


Read the full item.

Travel T-PAX/UTS Newsletter Archives

Top of page [Valid RSS]

Last Modified 8/25/2008