DODFMR Vol. 9 - Surviving DTS - A Survival Guide

Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation (DoD FMR) Volume 9, titled “Travel Policy,” establishes the comprehensive financial management guidelines and procedures governing official travel for DoD military members, civilian employees, and their dependents. Acting as a supplement to the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) and Federal Travel Regulation (FTR), this volume dictates the rules for authorizing, processing, and settling travel claims across various categories, including Temporary Duty (TDY), Permanent Duty Travel (PDT), and Evacuation Allowances. It outlines specific transportation allowances, such as the use of rental cars and privately owned vehicles (POV), and establishes strict limits and procedures for issuing travel advances. Furthermore, Volume 9 details the administration of specialized PDT benefits, including the shipment of Household Goods (HHG), Dislocation Allowances (DLA), and the Relocation Income Tax Allowance (RITA). Finally, it mandates rigorous accountability standards for processing travel claims, defining the critical responsibilities of travelers, Authorizing Officials (AOs), and Certifying Officers to ensure the legal and accurate reimbursement of expenses using systems like the Defense Travel System (DTS) and forms like the DD 1351-2