What Is Per Diem Lodging and How Does It Work
What Is Per Diem Lodging and How Does It Work
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Government employees and military members on Temporary Duty (TDY) often hear the phrase “per diem lodging,” but not everyone understands what it really means. Per diem lodging is housing selected and reimbursed under the General Services Administration (GSA) per diem rates. It is the foundation of how travel reimbursements work, and getting it right is the difference between smooth voucher approval and costly mistakes.
What is per diem lodging
Per diem lodging is the portion of the daily per diem allowance set aside for housing during TDY travel. The GSA publishes rates for every U.S. city and county that establish the maximum amount that can be reimbursed each night. These rates are designed to cover lodging only, while meals and incidental expenses are reimbursed separately as M&IE.
How per diem lodging works
- Each travel location has a specific lodging rate based on local costs.
- Lodging expenses must be supported by itemized receipts.
- Travelers can choose hotels, furnished apartments, or other compliant housing.
- All costs, including taxes, must stay within the per diem lodging ceiling.
Receipts and documentation
To qualify for reimbursement, travelers must submit receipts that clearly show:
- Dates of stay
- Location and address
- Nightly rate and taxes
- Proof of payment
Receipts that are incomplete or unclear often cause delays in processing vouchers.
Why staying within per diem matters
If lodging costs exceed the per diem rate, the traveler is responsible for the difference. Choosing housing that fits the per diem rate ensures full reimbursement and compliance with the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR). This is especially important for long-term TDY assignments where small overages can add up quickly.
Types of per diem lodging
- Hotels: Convenient for short assignments but costly for long stays.
- Corporate housing: Furnished apartments but often priced above per diem.
- Furnished homes: Designed for long-term TDY, typically include utilities and compliant invoicing.
Tips for choosing per diem lodging
- Check the GSA per diem table for your location before booking.
- Ask for itemized receipts with full details.
- Confirm whether utilities, parking, or other costs are included.
- Work with housing providers who understand government travel requirements.
The bottom line
Per diem lodging is not just about where you stay — it’s about compliance, comfort, and making the most of your allowance. By understanding how it works and what to look for, government employees and military members can avoid reimbursement problems and enjoy smoother TDY assignments.
