Avoid pitfalls of Government Travel Card use

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Brian Jones
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  The Government Travel Card can be a valuable tool for Airmen in travel status. However, there are limitations to how the GTC can be used.

"The GTC allows Airmen in official travel status to avoid using their own funds," said 1st Lt. Chris Collins, 39th Comptroller Squadron Financial Services Officer and wing GTC program coordinator. "At the same time, the government realizes savings."

Authorized uses of the GTC can be categorized by what Lieutenant Collins refers to as "the big three" lodging, airfare and a rental car if authorized.
"Common pitfalls of the GTC are Airmen using the card when not in an official travel status and charging items that are not authorized, specifically, unauthorized rental cars," said Lieutenant Collins.

Airmen should contact their unit's Agency Program Coordinator for definitions of authorized and unauthorized uses of the GTC and must sign a statement of understanding prior to being issued a card.

"The statement of understanding outlines what the GTC can and can't be used for," said the lieutenant. "It must be signed by the user and their supervisor."

While the GTC is used like a credit card, there are some differences. Airmen must ensure they file travel vouchers within five business days and include the mandatory split-disbursement amount to ensure GTC balances are paid in full.

"It's more like an American Express than a normal credit card," said Lieutenant Collins. "They want their money in full within 30 days. After 75 days, late fees will be charged."

The wing GTC coordinator offers this advice to Airmen who have questions about the authorized use of the card while traveling.

"If you're not sure, it's better to pay for it personally and claim it on your travel voucher then to risk using your GTC for an unauthorized purchase," he said. "If you do realize that you've made a mistake, contact your Agency Program Coordinator right away."

Cardholders can also review statements and transactions and perform basic operations when they register for online access by going to the following Web site and following the directions: http://www.gcsuthd.bankofamerica.com/eaglsselfregistration/selfreg.aspx.

While Lieutenant Collins is the wing point of contact for the GTC program, he relies on his squadron APCs to ensure things are running smoothly.


"Squadron Coordinators need to make sure their Airmen are using split disbursement and are running their monthly reports looking for delinquencies and unauthorized purchase patterns," said Lieutenant Collins. "They must also have a statement of understanding on file for each of their cardholders and be sure to in- and out-process their people."

Using the GTC can make official travel easier as long as it is used properly