What is tdy?

TDY, short for Temporary Duty, is a term commonly used in the United States military, as well as other government and corporate sectors. It refers to a period when an employee is required to perform work at a location other than their permanent duty station.

A TDY assignment involves a temporary relocation for a specific purpose, such as attending training, participating in a conference, conducting research, or providing support to another unit or office. During a TDY, the employee typically receives reimbursement for travel expenses, including lodging, meals, and transportation.

Here are some key aspects of TDY:

  • Purpose: TDYs are authorized for specific tasks or projects that cannot be accomplished at the employee's permanent duty station.

  • Duration: The length of a TDY can vary from a few days to several months, depending on the nature of the assignment.

  • Expenses: Employees on TDY are entitled to reimbursement for reasonable and necessary expenses incurred while traveling and performing their duties. This may include per diem rates for meals and incidentals.

  • Authorization: TDYs typically require prior authorization from a supervisor or designated authority.

  • Documentation: Maintaining accurate records of travel expenses and submitting them for reimbursement is a crucial part of the TDY process.

In essence, TDY represents a temporary work-related travel assignment, with specific guidelines and procedures for expense reimbursement and reporting.