Does my agency have to reimburse the full GSA per diem for training?

Question

If GSA publishes a lodging or M&IE maximum for the training city, does my department have to reimburse officers at that full amount?

Accepted Answer

No. GSA CONUS maximums govern federal civilian travel and are widely used as a benchmark. State, county, and municipal agencies often reimburse less, require itemized receipts, or require pre-approval under their own travel policy.

Treat GSA figures as a planning ceiling when building a travel request, then verify your agency’s rules before booking.

Estimate GSA lodging and M&IE for a destination: https://americanpolicetraining.com/travel/per-diem
Book lodging near the course: https://americanpolicetraining.com/travel

These figures are for planning. GSA CONUS rates are a common ceiling for lodging and meals; your agency’s travel policy controls what you are reimbursed. Confirm with your training or fiscal office before booking.