TDY Per Diem Rates & Guidelines: Complete 2025 Military Guide

Learn everything about TDY per diem rates for 2025, including military allowances, calculations, and eligibility requirements. Get expert guidance on temporary duty travel benefits.

Did you know that over 1.2 million military personnel receive TDY per diem annually? Whether you’re preparing for your first temporary duty assignment or seeking updated information, understanding TDY per diem rates is crucial for managing your travel expenses. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about these essential military travel allowances!

Understanding TDY (Temporary Duty) Per Diem Basics

TDY per diem refers to the daily allowance provided to federal employees and military personnel when traveling for temporary work assignments. This allowance covers essential living expenses during short-term duty assignments away from their permanent duty station.

The per diem allowance consists of three main components: lodging expenses, meals, and incidental expenses (M&IE). Lodging covers hotel or accommodation costs, while M&IE includes food, tips, and other minor travel-related expenses.

TDY assignments differ from Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves in duration and purpose. TDY typically lasts less than 180 days and involves temporary work assignments, while PCS involves permanent relocation to a new duty station.

The General Services Administration (GSA) establishes CONUS rates, while the Department of State handles OCONUS rates. The Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) oversees military travel regulations.

2025 TDY Per Diem Rate Updates

The standard CONUS lodging rate for 2025 varies by location, with base rates starting at $98 per night. M&IE rates begin at $59 per day in standard locations.

OCONUS rates fluctuate significantly based on international locations, currency exchange rates, and local economic conditions. These rates are reviewed and updated monthly for foreign locations.

Many popular duty locations have seasonal rate adjustments to account for peak travel periods and local events. For example, rates in Washington, DC increase during cherry blossom season.

Special circumstance rates apply for disaster areas, emergency responses, and other unique situations, often providing higher allowances than standard rates.

Calculating Your TDY Per Diem Allowance

To calculate per diem:

1. Determine your location’s daily rate
2. Account for travel days (75% of standard rate)
3. Apply any applicable rate adjustments
4. Multiply by number of days
5. Add authorized additional expenses
   
   

Partial days are typically calculated at 75% for the first and last day of travel. Meals are prorated based on time of departure and return.

For TDY assignments exceeding 30 days, rates are reduced to 75% of the standard rate. Assignments over 180 days receive 55% of the standard rate.

Special modifications apply for group travel, conference attendance, and government-provided meals or lodging.

Eligibility Requirements and Documentation

Eligibility extends to:

• Federal civilian employees
• Military personnel
• Authorized contractors
• Selected government consultants
  
  

Required documentation includes:

• Travel orders
• Receipts for lodging
• Travel voucher forms
• Mission justification
• Approval signatures
  
  

Submit claims through the Defense Travel System (DTS) or agency-specific systems. Maintain copies of all documentation for at least six years.

Common mistakes include missing receipts, incorrect dates, and failure to obtain proper authorizations before travel.

Tips for Maximizing Your TDY Benefits

Plan assignments to avoid peak seasons in high-cost areas. Consider government lodging facilities when available for reduced rates.

Maintain a digital archive of all travel documents. Use smartphone photos for backup copies of receipts and documents.

Recommended apps include:

• DTS Mobile
• Per Diem Calculator
• Receipt tracking apps
• Expense management tools
  
  

Submit vouchers within five working days of trip completion. Use split disbursement to expedite reimbursement. Maintain communication with your approving official throughout the process.|

Conclusion

Understanding and properly managing your TDY per diem can significantly impact your financial well-being during temporary assignments. Stay informed about rate changes and maintain detailed records to ensure you receive all entitled benefits. Questions about your specific situation? Consult your unit’s finance office or visit the Defense Travel Management Office website.