[Claim for Relocation Expenses Including Loan Assumption Fee]

A decision was requested concerning the claim of a National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) employee for relocation expenses which included a loan transfer fee. NASA had denied the claim on the basis that it was a finance charge and therefore not reimbursable. The employee claimed that the fee was the same as a loan origination fee which is now reimbursable under applicable regulations. GAO found that Federal Travel Regulations have now been amended to authorize reimbursement for loan origination fees. Furthermore, a loan assumption fee is reimbursable as a fee similar to a loan origination fee. Accordingly, it may be reimbursed as a miscellaneous expense. Therefore, the employee's claim may be paid consistent with the limitations contained in the Federal Travel Regulations.