Controlled Spend Account: Launching new force in travel card programs

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RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  The new Controlled Spend Account card is replacing the traditional Government Travel Card. But, what does it all mean? And more importantly, how will it impact you?

The Air Force has begun phasing out the Government Travel Card program by issuing Controlled Spend Account cards to select individuals. This change will increase the flexibility of the traveler to meet travel needs by lifting many merchant code restrictions attached to the GTC. It will also help reduce the workload for Agency Program Coordinators by automating several key processes.

New Standards in Operational Excellence

Using the card is simple and travelers no longer have to worry about using the card for the wrong purchase. Once travel orders are approved, the CSA's spend limit automatically adjusts based on the estimated dollar amount for that particular mission. Once the mission is complete, travelers simply submit their travel voucher for payment. When the travel voucher is paid, the payment information is updated on the CSA to reflect what the traveler's entitlements were. Under the concept of Total Trip Reimbursement, 100 percent of the funds are then sent directly to Citi to cover all charged expenses. This alleviates the unit from the administrative burden of tracking and managing GTC delinquencies and debts. Any valid residual funds, remaining on the CSA after the voucher is filed, are available for the cardholder to use or can be transferred to another personal account. Additionally, cardholders have the same protection and dispute capabilities that exist in the traditional government program.

Deliver Mission Accountability While Better Managing Cash Flows

The CSA program delivers a more efficient travel program and allows the Air Force to better manage cash flows. The CSA program enables the Air Force to transform the travel process by eliminating difficult tasks associated with setting up mission assignments and streamlining the reconciliation process. This ability to accurately determine spend limits also has a powerful impact on the Air Force's ability to better manage tight budgets.

How do I get a CSA Card?

The Air Force has partnered with Citi to implement the CSA program throughout the Air Force. The goal is to transition all bases and users in a phased approached by May 2011.

Transition to the CSA is automatic depending on how frequently you travel. Infrequent travelers and members who have an expiring GTC this spring will receive their CSA first. Eventually, all GTC holders with a current account and a zero or credit balance will receive the new CSA card. To ensure travelers are not adversely impacted during a temporary duty assignment during this transition period, GTC holders with upcoming travel orders will not be transferred. Cards will be issued to these individuals once travel is completed and there is a zero balance on their GTC account.

Once you receive your CSA, ensure you complete these steps to activate the account:

- Activate your card by following the directions on the sticker
- Call customer service to create a personal identification number for ATM use
- Check the Defense Travel System to ensure your CSA number is updated in the system
- Ensure timely input of travel orders - at least five days before traveling

Premier Support - No Matter Where the Mission Takes You

At the foundation of the Controlled Spend Account is Citi's 24/7 toll-free/collect call customer service network providing cardholders with support from anywhere in the world. Immediate service is available for cardholders to receive assistance or manage their accounts online. Additional coverage for insurance, travel, medical and emergency assistance combines to deliver the most comprehensive coverage in the card industry.

For more information, e-mail afcsa.travelcard@pentagon.af.mil or visit "virtual Finance" on the Air Force Portal.

(Editor's note: U.S. Air Forces in Europe Financial Management provided this information.)

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