The new controlled spending account card is currently being launched by CitiBank to replace the current government travel card. Once your current GTC expires, the new CSA card will be issued. In fact, some may have already received the CSA.  

The card is different than the current GTC. It preloads the estimated dollar amount on your card based off your orders (or defense travel system-estimated costs). You use your card according to your spending limit, based on the entitlements listed in your orders. When you return, you will file a travel voucher (as usual) but the entire amount of your travel payment is sent to the CSA to be applied to the charges incurred during travel. If you spent less than what you were entitled to, you receive the residual balance by 1) using the card anywhere (except places such as casinos and strip clubs) 2) calling CitiBank for a refund by ACH (need routing number and account number) or check or 3) ATM withdrawal (2% non-refundable fee). If you spent more on the card than what you’re entitled to, you will need to pay CitiBank or other fees will accrue. 

In emergency situations (for example, the plane you were scheduled to travel on breaks down and you need to spend more time at your temporary duty location), you can call CitiBank for a temporary spending limit increase. This will allow up to five days of additional spending until an order or amendment is done. An email is sent to finance to let us know you have a TSL and aggressive follow up is done to ensure you’re actually entitled to the additional limit. Remember, any funds you spend that you aren’t entitled to need to be paid by you directly to CitiBank. You will need to refund those amounts. 

Key things to remember:

     ·  When you receive your card, call to activate the card. Otherwise, any orders cut or DTS amounts sent will NOT update your card. 

     ·  Responsible spending is key. If you overspend, you’ll have to pay CitiBank.

Benefits include:

     ·  Supports all travelers regardless of credit history

     ·  Maximizes card usage

     ·  Reduces delinquency issues

     ·  Better control over funds

     ·  More efficient use of support resources

     ·  More complete travel data