How is the per diem rate calculated if I stay near my TDY site, but in a higher cost area?
It is presumed the employee will obtain lodging at the temporary duty location. However, if the employee obtains lodging away from or outside the temporary duty location because of personal preference or convenience, the allowable per diem shall be limited to the maximum per diem rate prescribed for the temporary duty location. (JTR C4555-1a) [If] lodging accomodations [are] not available at the temporary duty location and the employee must obtain lodging in an adjacent locality where the prescribed maximum per diem rate is higher than the maximum per diem rate for the location of the temporary duty point, …the DOD component may make an administrative determination on an individual case basis to authorize or approve the higher maximum per diem rate.
