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Public Contracts and Property Management
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2024-07-01
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2024-07-01

PAYMENT OF TRAVEL EXPENSES FROM A NON-FEDERAL SOURCE
Public Contracts and Property Management
Federal Travel Regulation System
41 CFR Ch. 304 (7-1-24 Edition)
Pmt. of Trav. Expen. Fm. Non-Fed. Source

CHAPTER 304—PAYMENT OF TRAVEL EXPENSES FROM A NON-FEDERAL SOURCE

SUBCHAPTER A—EMPLOYEE'S ACCEPTANCE OF PAYMENT FROM A NON-FEDERAL SOURCE FOR TRAVEL EXPENSES
Part
Page
304-1
Authority
267
304-2
Definitions
267
304-3
Employee responsibility
268

SUBCHAPTER B—AGENCY REQUIREMENTS
304-4
Authority
274
304-5
Agency responsibilities
274
304-6
Payment guidelines
276

SUBCHAPTER C—ACCEPTANCE OF PAYMENTS FOR TRAINING
304-7
Authority/applicability
279
304-8
Definitions
279
304-9
Contributions and awards
279
304-10—304-99 [Reserved]

SUBCHAPTER A—EMPLOYEE'S ACCEPTANCE OF PAYMENT FROM A NON-FEDERAL SOURCE FOR TRAVEL EXPENSES
Pt. 304-1

PART 304-1—AUTHORITY
Sec.
304-1.1
To whom do the pronouns “I”, “you”, and their variants refer throughout this part?
304-1.2
Under what authority may I accept payment of travel expenses from a non-Federal source?

Authority:
31 U.S.C. 1353 and 5 U.S.C. 5707.

Source:
FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, unless otherwise noted.
§ 304-1.1
To whom do the pronouns “I”, “you”, and their variants refer throughout this part?
Use of pronouns “I”, “you”, and their variants throughout this part refers to the employee.
§ 304-1.2
Under what authority may I accept payment of travel expenses from a non-Federal source?
Under the authority of this part and 31 U.S.C. 1353, you may accept payment of travel expenses from a non-Federal source on behalf of your agency, but not on behalf of yourself, when specifically authorized to do so by your agency and only for official travel to a meeting. Except as provided in § 304-3.13 of this subchapter, your agency must approve acceptance of such payments in advance of your travel.
Pt. 304-2

PART 304-2—DEFINITIONS

Authority:
5 U.S.C. 5707; 31 U.S.C. 1353.
§ 304-2.1
What definitions apply to this chapter?
The following definitions apply to this chapter:
Employee means an appointed officer or employee of an executive agency as defined in 5 U.S.C. 105, including a special Government employee as defined in 18 U.S.C. 202, or an expert or consultant appointed under the authority of 5 U.S.C. 3109.
Meeting(s) or similar functions (meeting) means a conference, seminar, speaking engagement, symposium, training course, or similar event that takes place away from the employee's official station. “Meeting” as defined in this chapter does not include a meeting or other event required to carry out an agency's statutory or regulatory functions such as investigations, inspections, audits, site visits, negotiations or litigation. “Meeting” also does not include promotional vendor training or other meetings held for the primary purpose of marketing the non-Federal sources products or services, or long term TDY or training travel. A meeting need not be widely attended for purposes of this definition and includes but is not limited to the following:
(1) An event where the employee will participate as a speaker or panel participant focusing on the employee's official duties or on the policies, programs or operations of the agency.
(2) A conference, convention, seminar, symposium or similar event where the primary purpose is to receive training other than promotional vendor training, or to present or exchange substantive information of mutual interest to a number of parties.
(3) An event where the employee will receive an award or honorary degree, which is in recognition of meritorious public service that is related to the employee's official duties, and which may be accepted by the employee consistent with the applicable standards of conduct regulations.
Non-Federal source means any person or entity other than the Government of the United States. The term includes any individual, private or commercial entity, nonprofit organization or association, international or multinational organization (irrespective of whether an agency holds membership in the organization or association), or foreign, State or local government (including the government of the District of Columbia).
Payment means a monetary payment from a non-Federal source to a Federal agency for travel, subsistence, related expenses by check or other monetary instrument payable to the Federal agency ( i.e., electronic fund transfer (EFT), money order, charge card, etc.) or payment in kind.
Payment in kind means transportation, food, lodging, or other travel-related services provided by a non-Federal source instead of monetary payments to the Federal agency for these services. Payment in kind also includes waiver or discount of any fees that a non-Federal source collects from meeting attendees ( e.g., registration fees), but does not include waivers or discounts of an employee's fees on the day(s) they are participating in the meeting or similar function as a speaker, panelist, or presenter.
Travel, subsistence, and related expenses (travel expenses) means the same types of expenses payable under chapter 301 of this title, the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), and the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) for transportation, food, lodging or other travel-related services for official travel (e.g., baggage expenses, services of guides, drivers, interpreters, communication services, hire of conference rooms, lodging taxes, laundry/dry cleaning, taxi or TNC fares, or the cost of utilizing an innovative mobility technology company, etc). These expenses also include conference or training fees (in whole or in part), as well as benefits that cannot be paid under the applicable travel regulations, but which are incident to the meeting, provided in kind, and made available by the meeting sponsor(s) to all attendees. For example, this definition as applied to this chapter would allow an employee or spouse to attend a sporting event hosted by the sponsor(s) in connection with the meeting that is available to all participants. However, it would not allow the employee to accept tickets to a professional sporting event, concert or similar event, for use at a later date even if such tickets were given to all other participants. The Foreign Affairs Manual is available at https://fam.state.gov. The Joint Travel Regulations are available at https://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/travelreg.cfm.
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, as amended by FTR Amdt. 2017-01, 83 FR 605, Jan. 5, 2018; 84 FR 55248, Oct. 16, 2019; 85 FR 39850, July 2, 2020; FTR Case 2022-05, 89 FR 12257, Feb. 16, 2024]
Pt. 304-3

PART 304-3—EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITY

Subpart A—General
Sec.
304-3.1
To whom do the pronouns “I”, “you”, and their variants refer throughout this part?
304-3.2
What is the purpose of this part?
304-3.3
May my agency or I accept payment for travel expenses to a meeting from a non-Federal source?
304-3.4
What payments may my agency or I accept from a non-Federal source?
304-3.5
May I solicit payment of my travel expenses from a non-Federal source to attend a meeting?
304-3.6
May I inform a non-Federal source of my agency's authority to accept payment for travel expenses to attend a meeting?
304-3.7
What must I do if I am contacted directly by a non-Federal source offering to pay my travel expenses to attend a meeting?
304-3.8
Must I adhere to the provisions of the Fly America Act when I receive air transportation to a meeting furnished or paid by a non-Federal source?
304-3.9
May I use other than coach class accommodations on common carriers when a non-Federal source pays in full for my common carrier transportation expenses to attend a meeting?
304-3.10
Is my agency's acceptance of a waived or discounted registration fee from a non-Federal sponsor of a meeting or similar function considered a payment in kind for the day(s) I am participating as a speaker, panelist, or presenter at the event?
304-3.11
Am I limited to the maximum subsistence allowances (per diem or actual expense) prescribed in applicable travel regulations for travel expenses paid by a non-Federal source?
304-3.12
Must I receive advance approval from my agency before I perform travel paid by a non-Federal source to attend a meeting?
304-3.13
After I begin travel to a meeting, what should I do if a non-Federal source offers to pay for one or more of my travel expenses without my or my agency's prior knowledge?
304-3.14
May a non-Federal source pay for my spouse to accompany me to a meeting?
304-3.15
Must I provide my agency with information about any payment I receive on its behalf?

Subpart B—Reimbursement Claims
304-3.16
What must I submit to my agency for reimbursement when a non-Federal source pays all or part of my travel expenses to attend a meeting?

Subpart C—Reports
304-3.17
If I am required to file a confidential or public financial disclosure report, must I report travel payments I receive from a non-Federal source on that report?

Subpart D—Penalties
304-3.18
What happens if I accept a payment from a non-Federal source that is in violation of this part?

Subpart E—Relation to Other Authorities
304-3.19
Are there other situations when I may accept payment from a non-Federal source for my travel expenses?

Authority:
5 U.S.C. 5707; 31 U.S.C. 1353.

Source:
FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart A—General
§ 304-3.1
To whom do the pronouns “I”, “you”, and their variants refer throughout this part?
Use of pronouns “I”, “you”, and their variants throughout this part refers to the employee.
§ 304-3.2
What is the purpose of this part?
The purpose of this part is to establish Governmentwide policy and guidance for acceptance by a Federal agency of payment for travel expenses from a non-Federal source for employees to attend meetings. It describes how such payments must be accepted by the agency for travel of agency employee(s) and/or the employee's spouse for official Government travel. Except as provided in § 304-3.13 of this part, advance agency approval is required to receive such payments.
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, as amended by FTR Case 2022-05, 89 FR 12257, Feb. 16, 2024]
§ 304-3.3
May my agency or I accept payment for travel expenses to a meeting from a non-Federal source?
Yes, you or your agency may accept such a payment from a non-Federal source, but you may only accept when your agency specifically authorizes such acceptance under the requirements of this part. Except as provided in § 304-3.13 of this part, your agency must approve acceptance of such payment in advance of your travel.
§ 304-3.4
What payments may my agency or I accept from a non-Federal source?
You or your agency may accept payments other than cash from a non-Federal source for all of your official travel expenses to attend a meeting of mutual interest, or any portion of those travel expenses mutually agreed upon between your agency and the non-Federal source. You may not accept payments for travel that is not to attend a meeting under this part. However, you may be able to accept payments under other authorities (see § 304-3.19).
§ 304-3.5
May I solicit payment of my travel expenses from a non-Federal source to attend a meeting?
No, you may not solicit payment for travel expenses from a non-Federal source to attend a meeting.
§ 304-3.6
May I inform a non-Federal source of my agency's authority to accept payment for travel expenses to attend a meeting?
Yes, you or your agency may inform the non-Federal source of your agency's authority to accept payment for travel expenses to attend a meeting.
§ 304-3.7
What must I do if I am contacted directly by a non-Federal source offering to pay my travel expenses to attend a meeting?
If you are contacted directly by a non-Federal source offering to pay any part of your travel expenses to attend a meeting, you must inform your agency, so that the authorized agency official can determine whether to accept the payment.
§ 304-3.8
Must I adhere to the provisions of the Fly America Act when I receive air transportation to a meeting furnished or paid by a non-Federal source?
No, if the payment or ticket was paid in full directly by the non-Federal source or reimbursed to your agency by the non-Federal source, the provisions of the Fly America Act do not apply. (See §§ 301-10.131 through 301-10.143 of this title for the regulations implementing the Fly America Act.)
§ 304-3.9
May I use other than coach class accommodations on common carriers when a non-Federal source pays in full for my common carrier transportation expenses to attend a meeting?
Yes, you may use other than coach class accommodations on common carriers if you meet one of the criteria contained in § 301-10.103 of this subtitle, and are authorized to do so by your agency in accordance with § 304-5.5 of this chapter.
[FTR Case 2020-300-1, 87 FR 55707, Sept. 12, 2022]
§ 304-3.10
Is my agency's acceptance of a waived or discounted registration fee from a non-Federal sponsor of a meeting or similar function considered a payment in kind for the day(s) I am participating as a speaker, panelist, or presenter at the event?
(a) No. Your agency's acceptance of a waived or discounted registration fee from the non-Federal sponsor of the event is not a payment in kind for the day(s) you are participating as a speaker, panelist, or presenter. However, your agency's acceptance of a waived or discounted registration fee is a payment in kind for the days you only attend the event ( i.e., on the day(s) you are not participating as a speaker, panelist, or presenter).
(b) Lodging, transportation, meals, event tickets, or other similar items of value provided by a non-Federal source are a payment in kind. If these types of expenses are included in a registration fee that is waived or discounted on the day(s) you are participating as a speaker, panelist, or presenter, you may accept them only with your agency's approval in accordance with this chapter. Specifically, if the registration fee includes meal(s), the meal(s) are a payment in kind. You may accept the meal(s) only if authorized to do so by your agency. If your agency authorizes acceptance of meal(s), you must also deduct the meal(s) from your M&IE per diem on your travel voucher using the deduction amounts listed for the locality at https://www.gsa.gov/mie unless you are unable to consume the meal(s) due to an exception provided in § 301-11.18 of this chapter.
[84 FR 55248, Oct. 16, 2019]
§ 304-3.11
Am I limited to the maximum subsistence allowances (per diem or actual expense) prescribed in applicable travel regulations for travel expenses paid by a non-Federal source?
Generally yes. Subsistence expenses are usually limited to the maximum subsistence allowances (per diem or actual expense) prescribed in chapter 301 of this title for travel in CONUS, by the Secretary of Defense for travel in non-foreign areas and by the Secretary of State for travel in foreign areas. However, acceptance of payment for, and when applicable, reimbursement by an agency to an employee and the accompanying spouse of such employee are not subject to the maximum per diem or actual subsistence expense rates when traveling in CONUS or in non-foreign areas under the following conditions:
(a) The non-Federal source pays the full amount of the subsistence expense, as authorized by your agency; and
(b) The subsistence expense paid by the non-Federal source is comparable in value to that offered to or purchased by other meeting attendees; and
(c) Your agency has approved acceptance of payment from the non-Federal source prior to your travel; if your agency has not approved any acceptance from the non-Federal source, you may not exceed the maximum allowances. See § 304-3.13.

Note:
The maximum subsistence allowances established by the Secretary of State for travel to foreign areas may not be exceeded.
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, as amended by FTR Amdt. 2013-01, 78 FR 65212, Oct. 31, 2013]
§ 304-3.12
Must I receive advance approval from my agency before I perform travel paid by a non-Federal source to attend a meeting?
Yes, you must receive advance approval from your agency before performing travel paid by a non-Federal source to attend a meeting except as provided in § 304-3.13.
§ 304-3.13
After I begin travel to a meeting, what should I do if a non-Federal source offers to pay for one or more of my travel expenses without my or my agency's prior knowledge?
(a) If your agency has already authorized acceptance of payment for some of your travel expenses for that meeting from a non-Federal source, then you may accept on behalf of your agency, payment for any of your additional travel expenses from the same non-Federal source as long as—
(1) The expenses paid or provided in kind are comparable in value to those offered to or purchased by other similarly situated meeting attendees; and
(2) Your agency did not decline to accept payment for those particular expenses in advance of your travel.
(b) If your agency did not authorize acceptance of any payment from a non-Federal source prior to your travel, then—
(1) You may accept, on behalf of your agency, payment from a non-Federal source as authorized in this section—
(i) Only the types of travel expenses that are authorized by your travel authorization ( i.e., meals, lodging, transportation, but not recreation or other personal expenses); and
(ii) Only travel expenses that are within the maximum allowances stated on your travel authorization (e.g., if your travel authorization states that you are authorized to incur lodging expenses up to $100 per night, you may not accept payment from the non-Federal source for a $200 per night hotel room);
(2) You must request your agency's authorization for acceptance from the non-Federal source within 7 working days after your trip ends; and
(3) If your agency does not authorize acceptance from the non-Federal source, your agency must either—
(i) Reimburse the non-Federal source for the reasonable approximation of the market value of the benefit provided, not to exceed the maximum allowance stated on your travel authorization; or
(ii) Require you to reimburse the non-Federal source that amount and allow you to claim that amount on your travel claim for the trip.
(c) If you accept payment from a non-Federal source for travel expenses in violation of paragraph (a) or paragraph (b) of this section, you may be subject to the penalties specified in § 304-3.18.
§ 304-3.14
May a non-Federal source pay for my spouse to accompany me to a meeting?
Yes, a non-Federal source may pay for your spouse to accompany you when it is in the interest of and authorized in advance by your agency. All limitations and requirements of this part apply to the acceptance of payment from a non-Federal source for travel expenses and/or agency reimbursement of travel expenses for your accompanying spouse. Your agency may determine that your spouse's presence at an event is in the interest of the agency if your spouse will—
(a) Support the mission of your agency or substantially assist you in carrying out your official duties;
(b) Attend a ceremony at which you will receive an award or honorary degree; or
(c) Participate in substantive programs related to the agency's programs or operations.
§ 304-3.15
Must I provide my agency with information about any payment I receive on its behalf?
Yes. Your agency must submit to the U.S. Office of Government Ethics (OGE) a semiannual report (SF 326) of all payments it accepts under this part. You must be prepared to give your agency the information it needs in order to submit its report.

Subpart B—Reimbursement Claims
§ 304-3.16
What must I submit to my agency for reimbursement when a non-Federal source pays all or part of my travel expenses to attend a meeting?
You must submit a travel claim listing all allowable travel expenses that you incurred which were not paid in kind by a non-Federal source. Do not claim travel expenses that were furnished in kind by a non-Federal source. Your reimbursement is limited to the types of expenses authorized in Chapter 301 of this title or analogous provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations or Foreign Affairs Manual. Reimbursement from your agency for expenses will not in any case exceed the amount of the expenses you incur. Such reimbursement will also adhere to established regulatory limitations except where your agency accepts payments under § 304-5.4, § 304-5.5 or § 304-5.6 of this chapter.

Subpart C—Reports
§ 304-3.17
If I am required to file a confidential or public financial disclosure report, must I report travel payments I receive from a non-Federal source on that report?
Generally, no. As long as payments you receive from a non-Federal source are made to or on behalf of your agency, you are not required to report them as gifts on any confidential or public disclosure report you are personally required to file pursuant to law or Office of Government Ethics (OGE) regulations (5 CFR part 2634). However, you may be required to report any such payments that you and/or your accompanying spouse receive on your own behalf, rather than on the agency's behalf, pursuant to other reporting requirements (e.g., those required by the Ethics in Government Act of 1978).

Note:
The confidential financial disclosure report is OGE Form 450 and the public financial disclosure report is SF 278.

Subpart D—Penalties
§ 304-3.18
What happens if I accept a payment from a non-Federal source that is in violation of this part?
If you accept payment from a non-Federal source in violation of this part—
(a) You may be required, in addition to any other penalty provided by law and applicable regulations, to pay the general fund of the Treasury, an amount equal to any payment you accepted; and
(b) In the case of reimbursement under paragraph (a) of this section, you will not be entitled to any reimbursement from the Government for your travel expenses that the payment was intended to cover.

Subpart E—Relation to Other Authorities
§ 304-3.19
Are there other situations when I may accept payment from a non-Federal source for my travel expenses?
Yes, you may also accept payment of travel expenses from a non-Federal source under the following authorities, in addition to this part:
(a) Under 5 U.S.C. 4111 for acceptance of contributions, awards, and other payments from tax-exempt entities for non-Government sponsored training or meetings (see regulations issued by the Office of Personnel Management at 5 CFR part 410).
(b) Under 5 U.S.C. 7342 for travel taking place entirely outside the United States which is paid by a foreign government, where acceptance is permitted by your agency and any regulations which may be prescribed by your agency.
(c) Under 5 U.S.C. 7324(b) when payment is for travel to be performed for a partisan rather than an official purpose in accordance with the Hatch Act (5 U.S.C. 7321-7326); or
(d) Pursuant to the applicable standards of ethical conduct regulations concerning personal acceptance of gifts. For example, under 5 CFR 2635.204(e), which authorizes executive branch employees to accept gifts based on outside business employment relationships. (Note: You may also be able to accept attendance at, but not other travel expenses to, a widely attended gathering under 5 CFR 2635.204(g) when the gathering is not a meeting, as defined in this part, and you are not attending in your official capacity. Unless authorized to do so by your agency, you may not accept travel, subsistence, or related expenses, including meals, offered by a non-Federal source for participation as a speaker, panelist, or presenter at a meeting or similar function that takes place away from your permanent duty station. Such expenses are considered payments in kind and must be accepted, if at all, in accordance with this part.)
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, as amended at 84 FR 55248, Oct. 16, 2019]

SUBCHAPTER B—AGENCY REQUIREMENTS
Pt. 304-4

PART 304-4—AUTHORITY
Sec.
304-4.1
To whom do the pronouns “we”, “you”, and their variants refer throughout this part?
304-4.2
What is the purpose of this part?
304-4.3
Under what other authority may we accept payment for travel expenses from a non-Federal source?

Authority:
5 U.S.C. 5707; 31 U.S.C. 1353.

Source:
FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, unless otherwise noted.
§ 304-4.1
To whom do the pronouns “we”, “you”, and their variants refer throughout this part?
Use of pronouns “we”, “you”, and their variants throughout this part refers to the agency.
§ 304-4.2
What is the purpose of this part?
The purpose of this part is to establish Governmentwide policy and guidance for acceptance by a Federal agency of payment for travel expenses from a non-Federal source for employees to attend meetings under 31 U.S.C. 1353. It prescribes how such payments may be accepted.
§ 304-4.3
Under what other authority may we accept payment for travel expenses from a non-Federal source?
You may accept payment for travel expenses to events other than meetings from a non-Federal source pursuant to an agency gift statute or similar statutory authority. However, this part 304 is the only authority you may use to accept (or authorize your employee to accept on your behalf) payment for travel expenses from a non-Federal source to attend a meeting. For example, you could not pay the travel expenses for an employee to attend a meeting and then authorize the employee to use the widely attended gathering exception in 5 CFR 2635.204(g)(2) to accept free attendance at that same meeting. You would only be able to accept payment for the employee's attendance at that meeting under this part 304.

Note:
Employees may also be able to accept payment for travel expenses from non-Federal sources in their individual capacities under the authorities referenced in § 304-3.19.
Pt. 304-5

PART 304-5—AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES
Sec.
304-5.1
When may we accept payment from a non-Federal source for travel to a meeting or authorize an employee to accept payment on our behalf?
304-5.2
Who must approve acceptance of payment from a non-Federal source for travel expenses to a meeting?
304-5.3
What does our approving official need to consider before authorizing acceptance of payment from a non-Federal source for travel expenses for a meeting?
304-5.4
May we authorize an employee to exceed the maximum subsistence allowances (per diem or actual expense) prescribed in applicable travel regulations where we have authorized acceptance of payment from a non-Federal source for such allowances?
304-5.5
May we authorize an employee to use other than coach class accommodations on common carriers if we accept payment in full from a non-Federal source for such transportation expenses?
304-5.6
May we authorize acceptance of payment from more than one non-Federal source for a single trip?
304-5.7
How do we review offers of payments in kind from the non-Federal sponsor or organizer of a meeting or similar function for items such as meals, transportation, and lodging when they are included in a waived or discounted registration fee?

Authority:
5 U.S.C. 5707; 31 U.S.C. 1353.

Source:
FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, unless otherwise noted.
§ 304-5.1
When may we accept payment from a non-Federal source for travel to a meeting or authorize an employee to accept payment on our behalf?
You may accept payment from a non-Federal source or authorize an employee and/or the employee's spouse to accept payment on your behalf only when-
(a) You have issued the employee (and/or the employee's spouse, when applicable) a travel authorization before the travel begins;
(b) You have determined that the travel is in the interest of the Government;
(c) The travel relates to the employee's official duties; and
(d) The non-Federal source is not disqualified due to a conflict of interest under § 304-5.3.
§ 304-5.2
Who must approve acceptance of payment from a non-Federal source for travel expenses to a meeting?
An official at the highest practical administrative level who can evaluate the requirements in § 304-5.3, must approve acceptance of such payments.
§ 304-5.3
What does our approving official need to consider before authorizing acceptance of payment from a non-Federal source for travel expenses for a meeting?
(a) The approving official must not authorize acceptance of the payment if the approving official determines that acceptance of the payment under the circumstances would cause a reasonable person with knowledge of all the facts relevant to a particular case to question the integrity of agency programs or operations. The approving official must be guided by all relevant considerations, including but not limited to the—
(1) Identity of the non-Federal source;
(2) Purpose of the meeting;
(3) Identity of other expected participants;
(4) Nature and sensitivity of any matter pending at the agency which may affect the interest of the non-Federal source;
(5) Significance of the employee's role in any such matter; and
(6) Monetary value and character of the travel benefits offered by the non-Federal source.
(b) The agency official may find that, while acceptance from the non-Federal source is permissible, it is in the interest of the agency to qualify acceptance of the offered payment by, for example, authorizing attendance at only a portion of the event or limiting the type or character of benefits that may be accepted.
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, as amended by FTR Case 2022-05, 89 FR 12257, Feb. 16, 2024]
§ 304-5.4
May we authorize an employee to exceed the maximum subsistence allowances (per diem or actual expense) prescribed in applicable travel regulations where we have authorized acceptance of payment from a non-Federal source for such allowances?
(a) Generally, yes. Subsistence allowances are usually limited to the maximum subsistence allowances (per diem or actual expense) prescribed in chapter 301 of this title for travel in CONUS, by the Secretary of Defense for travel in non-foreign areas, and by the Secretary of State for travel in foreign areas. However, the maximum subsistence allowances established by this title and by the Secretary of Defense may be exceeded as long as—
(1) The non-Federal source pays the full amount of the subsistence expenses, at issue; and
(2) The subsistence expense paid by the non-Federal source is comparable in value to that offered to or purchased by meeting attendees.
(b) The maximum subsistence allowances prescribed by the Secretary of State for travel to foreign areas may not be exceeded.
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, as amended by FTR Amdt. 2013-01, 78 FR 65212, Oct. 31, 2013]
§ 304-5.5
May we authorize an employee to use other than coach class accommodations on common carriers if we accept payment in full from a non-Federal source for such transportation expenses?
Yes, you may authorize an employee to use other than coach class accommodations on common carriers as long as the:
(a) Non-Federal source makes full payment for such transportation services in advance of travel; and
(b) Transportation accommodations furnished are comparable in value to those offered to, or purchased by other similarly situated meeting attendees; and
(c) Travel meets at least one of the conditions in § 301-10.103 of this title.
[FTR Amdt. 2009-06, 74 FR 55151, Oct. 27, 2009, as amended by 2020-300-1, 87 FR 55707, Sept. 12, 2022]
§ 304-5.6
May we authorize acceptance of payment from more than one non-Federal source for a single trip?
Yes, you may accept payment from more than one non-Federal source for a single trip, as long as the total of such payments do not exceed the total cost of the trip.
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003. Redesignated by FTR Amdt. 2009-06, 74 FR 55151, Oct. 27, 2009]
§ 304-5.7
How do we review offers of payments in kind from the non-Federal sponsor or organizer of a meeting or similar function for items such as meals, transportation, and lodging when they are included in a waived or discounted registration fee?
(a) If the non-Federal sponsor or organizer of a meeting or similar function offers to waive or discount the registration fee of an employee who is only attending the event, you are not required to separately authorize acceptance of any items included in the registration fee. If applicable, acceptance of the registration fee must be reported to U.S. Office of Government Ethics (OGE) in accordance with part 304-6 of this chapter.
(b) When a waived or discounted registration fee is not a payment in kind pursuant to § 304-3.10 of this chapter, the employee may only accept items that you authorize separately. If applicable, the value of any payments in kind so accepted should be reported to OGE in accordance with part 304-6 of this chapter. In particular, if a registration fee is waived or discounted on the day(s) an employee is participating as a speaker, panelist, or presenter, and the registration fee includes meal(s), the employee may accept meal(s) as a payment in kind only if you review the offer and authorize acceptance. Review the reporting guidelines at § 304-6.4 of this chapter to see if the aggregated meal amounts (if more than one meal, or meals of both an employee and spouse) will need to be reported to OGE.
[84 FR 55248, Oct. 16, 2019]
Pt. 304-6

PART 304-6—PAYMENT GUIDELINES

Subpart A—General
Sec.
304-6.1
May we accept a monetary payment in the form of cash from a non-Federal source?
304-6.2
What should we do if a non-Federal source does not pay the full cost for expenses that an employee will incur during travel?
304-6.3
What happens if an employee accepts payment from a non-Federal source that is in violation of this part?

Subpart B—Reports
304-6.4
What form must we use to report payments received by the agency from non-Federal sources?
304-6.5
What guidelines must we follow when using the Standard Form (SF) 326?

Subpart C—Valuation
304-6.6
How do we determine the value of payments in kind that are to be reported on Standard Form (SF) 326?
304-6.7
Must we report on the Standard Form (SF) 326 any information that is protected from disclosure by statute?
304-6.8
Will the reports be made available for public inspection?
304-6.9
Does acceptance by OGE of the Standard Form (SF) 326 constitute a determination by OGE that the data submitted is adequate or a concurrence by OGE in the agency's conflict of interest analysis?

Authority:
5 U.S.C. 5707; 31 U.S.C. 1353.

Source:
FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart A—General
§ 304-6.1
May we accept a monetary payment in the form of cash from a non-Federal source?
No, you may not accept a monetary payment in the form of cash from a non-Federal source. Monetary payment(s) received from a non-Federal source must be in the form of a check or similar instrument made payable to the agency.
§ 304-6.2
What should we do if a non-Federal source does not pay the full cost for expenses that an employee will incur during travel?
If you determine in advance of the employee's travel that payment from a non-Federal source will cover some but not all of the employee's allowable travel and subsistence expenses you should state on the employee's travel authorization that the employee will be reimbursed the difference between the full allowances and the payment from the non-Federal source. See chapter 301 of this Title, 6 Foreign Affairs Manual, Chapter 100, or the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR), Chapter 4, as applicable to determine the applicable maximum allowances.
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, as amended at 85 FR 39850, July 2, 2020]
§ 304-6.3
What happens if an employee accepts payment from a non-Federal source that is in violation of this part?
If an employee accepts payment from a non-Federal source in violation of this part—
(a) You may require the employee, in addition to any penalty provided by law and applicable regulations, to pay the general fund of the Treasury, an amount equal to the payment so accepted; and
(b) The employee shall not be entitled to any reimbursement from the Government for such expenses.

Subpart B—Reports
§ 304-6.4
What form must we use to report payments received by the agency from non-Federal sources?
Your agency head or designee must submit Standard Form (SF) 326, Semiannual Report of Payments Accepted From a Non-Federal Source (fully completed) to report payments received from non-Federal sources. This applies to all payments that are more than $250 per event for an employee and accompanying spouse. For purposes of the $250 threshold, payments for an employee and accompanying spouse shall be aggregated. If you wish to use a form other than SF 326 to report such payments, you may seek permission to do so by contacting the Office of Government Ethics at United States Office of Government Ethics, 1201 New York Avenue, NW., Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005-3917.
§ 304-6.5
What guidelines must we follow when using the Standard Form (SF) 326?
When completing the SF 326—
(a) You must fully complete each block on SF 326 without exception (including payments accepted for an accompanying spouse).
(b) You must also—
(1) Submit the SF 326 no later than May 31 for payments received from the preceding October 1 through March 31;
(2) Submit a SF 326 no later than November 30 for payments received from the preceding April 1 through September 30; and
(c) Submit the SF 326 including negative reports, to: Director of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), 1201 New York Avenue, NW., Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005-3917.

Subpart C—Valuation
§ 304-6.6
How do we determine the value of payments in kind that are to be reported on Standard Form (SF) 326?
The following should be used in the determination of the value of payments in kind for reporting on SF 326:
(a) For conference, training, or similar fees waived, discounted, or paid for by a non-Federal source on behalf of a meeting attendee, you must report the amount charged to other attendees. However, a waiver or discount of the registration fee by the non-Federal sponsor of the event for the day(s) the employee participated in the meeting or similar function as a speaker, panelist, or presenter is not a payment in kind and does not need to be reported.
(b) For transportation or lodging, you must report the cost that the non-Federal source paid or usually would have been charged for such event.
(c) For meals, you must use the M&IE deduction chart for CONUS and OCONUS located at https://www.gsa.gov/mie and report the appropriate amount for each meal based on the temporary duty locality.
(d) For chartered, corporate or other private aircraft—
(1) When common carrier is available, you must report the first-class rate that would have been charged by a commercial air carrier at the time the event took place.
(2) When a common carrier is not available, you must report the cost of chartering a similar aircraft using a commercially available service.
(e) Lodging where no commercial rate is available: You must report the maximum lodging rate established by GSA for CONUS, Department of Defense for non-foreign areas and the Secretary of State for foreign areas. These rates are available on the Internet at the GSA Web site https://www.gsa.gov/perdiem , with links to the non-foreign and foreign area rates.
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, as amended at 84 FR 55249, Oct. 16, 2019; 85 FR 39850, July 2, 2020]
§ 304-6.7
Must we report on the Standard Form (SF) 326 any information that is protected from disclosure by statute?
No. Information that is protected by statute from disclosure to the public should not be reported on the SF 326. However, if you omit otherwise reportable information from the SF 326 because the information may not be disclosed, you must notify OGE unless otherwise prohibited by law and, if requested by the Director of OGE, make the information available for inspection by an OGE employee with the requisite clearance.
§ 304-6.8
Will the reports be made available for public inspection?
Yes, OGE must make any report filed by an agency under this part (that is not protected from disclosure by statute) available for public inspection and copying on the later of the following two dates:
(a) Within 30 days after the applicable due date.
(b) Within 30 days after the date OGE actually receives the report.
§ 304-6.9
Does acceptance by OGE of the Standard Form (SF) 326 constitute a determination by OGE that the data submitted is adequate or a concurrence by OGE in the agency's conflict of interest analysis?
No. OGE is responsible for making the information provided by the agencies available to the public. It is each agency's responsibility to file the accurate and complete reports and to make the appropriate conflict of interest analysis.

SUBCHAPTER C—ACCEPTANCE OF PAYMENTS FOR TRAINING
Pt. 304-7

PART 304-7—AUTHORITY/APPLICABILITY
Sec.
304-7.1
What is the purpose of this subchapter?
304-7.2
To whom does this subchapter apply?
304-7.3
Who is exempt from this subchapter?

Authority:
5 U.S.C. 4111(b); E.O. 11609, 36 FR 13747, 3 CFR, 1971-1975 Comp., p. 586.

Source:
FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, unless otherwise noted.
§ 304-7.1
What is the purpose of this subchapter?
The purpose of this subchapter is to provide for reductions in per diem and other travel reimbursement when employees receive contributions, awards and other payments from non-Federal sources for training in non-Government facilities and attendance at meetings under 5 U.S.C. 4111.
§ 304-7.2
To whom does this subchapter apply?
This subchapter applies to—
(a) Civilian officers and employees of—
(1) Executive departments as defined in 5 U.S.C. 101;
(2) Independent establishments as defined in 5 U.S.C. 104;
(3) Government corporations subject to chapter 91 of title 31 U.S.C.;
(4) The Library of Congress;
(5) The Government Printing Office (GPO);
(6) The government of the District of Columbia; and
(b) Commissioned officers of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
§ 304-7.3
Who is exempt from this subchapter?
The following, under 5 U.S.C. 4102 and the implementing regulation at 5 CFR 410.101(b), are exempt from this subchapter:
(a) A corporation supervised by the Farm Credit Administration if private interests elect or appoint a member of the board of directors.
(b) The Tennessee Valley Authority.
(c) An individual (except a commissioned officer of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) who is a member of a uniformed service during a period in which he is entitled to pay under 37 U.S.C. 204.
(d) The U.S. Postal Service, Postal Rate Commission and their employees.
Pt. 304-8

PART 304-8—DEFINITIONS

Authority:
5 U.S.C. 4111(b); E.O. 11609, 36 FR 13747, 3 CFR, 1971-1975 Comp., p. 586.
§ 304-8.1
For the purpose of this subchapter, who is a donor?
A donor, for the purpose of this subchapter, is a non-profit charitable organization described by 26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3), that is exempt from taxation under 26 U.S.C. 501(a).
[FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003]
Pt. 304-9

PART 304-9—CONTRIBUTIONS AND AWARDS
Sec.
304-9.1
To whom do the pronouns “I”, “you”, and their variants refer throughout this part?
304-9.2
May we allow an employee to accept contributions and awards pertaining to training and payments incident to attendance at meetings under this subchapter?
304-9.3
May we pay an employee for expenses that are fully reimbursed by a donor for training in a non-Government facility, or travel expenses incident to attendance at a meeting?
304-9.4
May we reimburse an employee for training expenses that are not fully paid by a donor?
304-9.5
What if the employee is compensated by a donor and by us for the same expenses?
304-9.6
Must we reduce an employee's reimbursement when a donor pays for items for which we are not authorized to reimburse the employee?
304-9.7
Must we obtain data from employees or donors for all expenses received?

Authority:
5 U.S.C. 4111(b); E.O. 11609, 36 FR 13747, 3 CFR, 1971-1975 Comp., p. 586.

Source:
FTR Amdt. 2003-02, 68 FR 12604, Mar. 17, 2003, unless otherwise noted.
§ 304-9.1
To whom do the pronouns “I”, “you”, and their variants refer throughout this part?
Use of pronouns “I”, “you”, and their variants throughout this part refers to the agency.
§ 304-9.2
May we allow an employee to accept contributions and awards pertaining to training and payments incident to attendance at meetings under this subchapter?
Yes, you may allow an employee to accept contributions and awards pertaining to training and payments incident to attendance at meetings when you specifically authorize them to do so in accordance with OPM guidelines issued under section 401(b) of Executive Order 11348 (see 5 CFR part 410) and section 303(j) of Executive Order 11348 (3 CFR, 1966-1970 Comp., p. 639). The OPM guidelines may be found at 5 CFR 410.501 through 410.503.
§ 304-9.3
May we pay an employee for expenses that are fully reimbursed by a donor for training in a non-Government facility, or travel expenses incident to attendance at a meeting?
No, you may not reimburse an employee for expenses that are fully reimbursed by a donor for training in a non-Government facility, or travel expenses incident to attendance at a meeting.
§ 304-9.4
May we reimburse an employee for training expenses that are not fully paid by a donor?
Yes, you may reimburse an employee for training expenses that are not fully paid by a donor an amount considered sufficient to cover the balance of expenses to the extent authorized by law and regulation, including 5 U.S.C. 4109 and 5 U.S.C. 4110.
§ 304-9.5
What if the employee is compensated by a donor and by us for the same expenses?
If you reimburse an employee for expenses that are also paid by a donor, you must establish and carry out policy in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 5514 and the Federal Claims Collection Standards (31 CFR parts 900-904) to recover any excess amount paid to the employee.
§ 304-9.6
Must we reduce an employee's reimbursement when a donor pays for items for which we are not authorized to reimburse the employee?
No, when a donor pays for travel expenses that the Government is not authorized to pay (such as travel expenses for an employee's family) no reduction in reimbursement to the employee is required.
§ 304-9.7
Must we obtain data from employees or donors for all expenses received?
Yes, you must set agency policy to ensure collection of expense data in such detail as you deem necessary to carry out this part.
PARTS 304-10—304-99 [RESERVED]