Claim for Temporary Quarters Subsistence Expenses Incident to Cancelled Transfer

A Drug Enforcement Administration certifying officer requested an advance decision as to an employee's claim for subsistence expenses regarding an overseas transfer which was later canceled. After receiving his transfer orders, the employee packed his household and personal effects and arranged for water transporation of his automobile. When his home was vacant, the employee arranged for his family's housing, but before his scheduled departure his transfer was delayed. After 2 months, he moved his family back into their home; 4 months later the transfer orders were canceled. The employee claimed subsistence expenses for himself and his family totaling $30 per day for 197 days. When a transfer is canceled and certain relocation expenses would have been reimbursable had the transfer occurred, an employee is entitled to expenses incurred relating to the transfer. Afterwards, the employee is regarded as having been transferred and then retransferred to his original location. GAO found that the employee was entitled to subsistence expenses for 30 days, and to miscellaneous expenses incident to departure preparations. Since the family stayed with the employee's in-laws, subsistence allowances could not be calculated until supporting evidence was submitted. To obtain reimbursement for the expenses incurred on behalf of his family, the employee must resubmit his voucher documenting the required items.