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SPO Newsletter Issue 03/13 (May)

May 2013 Military Payroll Processing Complete

Published Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:16 CDT

May Leave and Earnings Statements Posted:

LESs for May are available. Go to "View Paycheck" in Direct Access under Employee Self Service to view.

The official pay date for end-month May 2013 is 31 May 2013

May Reserve Points Statements Posted:

Reserve retirement point data for May 2013 is available. Go to "View Reserve Points" in Direct Access under Self Service to view.

Newborn and Child Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) Enrollment

Published Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 15:00:16 CDT

This article provides information relating to Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) enrollment for newborn children.

Newborn enrollment to the DEERS should occur as soon as possible, normally within 30-days. A child's enrollment in DEERS allows for timely medical care access to Military Treatment Facility (MTF) and TRICARE. In some instances, authorized TRICARE providers can enroll a newborn child within DEERS, known as a placeholder record, until confirmed by the military member/sponsor.

Documentation

The following documents are acceptable for DEERS enrollment at the nearest uniformed Services identification (ID) card issuing facility:

• Certified original or copy of the child's birth certificate
• Certificate of Live Birth, authenticated by an attending physician or responsible person from a U.S. hospital or Military Treatment Facility (This is often referred to as the "Hospital Birth Certificate").
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Foreign Services Form (FS-240)

Unmarried Children Born out of Wedlock, under the age of 21

A male military member/sponsor presents:

• A court order that establishes paternity and the child's birth certificate
• An approved dependency determination
• A voluntary acknowledgement of paternity per USD P&R Memorandum, 28 Jan 08, Determinations of Dependency for Health Care Benefits for Out-of-Wedlock Children. to the ID Card Manual (COMDTINST M5512.1A) paragraphs 4.9.3 and 4.9.4, and Attachment 5, Rule 18e (1) and (2). NOTE: A determination of paternity is required at the time of the military member's/sponsor's death if no previous court order or voluntary acknowledgement of paternity was present in establishing the parent/child relationship.
• A male military member/sponsor must process and receive an approved dependency and residency determination (reflecting over 50 percent support) to include presenting a child's birth certificate. NOTE: A birth certificate alone does not satisfy documentation requirements for a child born out of wedlock of a male member/sponsor. Refer to the ID Card Manual (COMDTINST M5512.1A) paragraphs 19.24 for Army sponsors, 20.17 for Navy sponsors, 21.21 for Air Force sponsors, 22.12 for Marine Corps sponsors, 23.5 for Coast Guard sponsors, 25.1.6 for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration sponsors, and 25.1.7 for Public Health Service sponsors.
• Each state maintains a procedure to allow a father to voluntarily acknowledge paternity of a child born out of wedlock. These state forms will be used to determine eligibility for a child DEERS enrollment. For more information on the voluntarily acknowledgement of paternity state forms. The military member/sponsor will present the notarized form to the nearest ID card issuance site to have the child added to DEERS. NOTE: The child may be enrolled at any time before their 21st birthday.
• The state form and a birth certificate will be required to add the child to DEERS. Note: The forms will be scanned into DEERS as part of the enrollment process.
• Once the child has been added to DEERS, the military member/sponsor will be provided 60 days to remove the child from DEERS. Note: After 60 days, the child will remain in DEERS as the military member's/sponsor's child until he/she is 21 or 23 if enrolled in a full time course of study at an institution of higher learning approved by the administering Secretary, and is dependent on the member or former member for over one-half of the child's support.

A female military member/sponsor present:

• Her child's birth certificate.

A military member/sponsor who is the child's natural parent:

• Presents a marriage certificate (between the military member/sponsor and the natural mother or father) and the child's birth certificate.

Tools

• Identification Card Issuance Sites

Authoritative/Related Resources

• COMDTINST M5512.1A, Identification Cards for Members of the Uniformed Services, Their Eligible Family Members, and other Eligible Personnel

Critical Housing Area (CHA) Update

Published Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:16 CDT

Per ALCGPSC message 057/13, effective May 13, 2013 Keokuk, IA (zip code 52632) is designated a Critical Housing Area (CHA). See ALCGPSC 003/13 for other CHA designations in effect.

Members with dependents ordered PCS to a Coast Guard unit located in a CHA, who have no intention of relocating their dependents to that unit, may submit a Housing Allowance Protection Worksheet (CG-Form 2025a). Members who are authorized a housing allowance based on the payment of child support are not eligible to submit a (CG-2025a) under the CHA policy. The Servicing Personnel Office must have an approved BAH Protection memorandum from PSC-PSD-fs in order to change BAH and COLA entitlements. These changes will be effective on the member's reporting date.

Travel and shipment of household good (HHG) costs which exceed the maximum allowed for travel of dependents and shipment of HHG from the last Permanent Duty Station (PDS) to the new PDS, will be at the member's expense. Dependents travel and HHG transportation costs associated with future PCS orders will be based upon the member's PDS, vice the authorized CHA BAH location of dependents.

Department ID Changes for Some SPOs.

Published Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 11:00:16 CDT

The department IDs for several SPOs have changed in Direct Access, the list is below.

The changes will be reflected in the next update to the SPO Contact List.

Shipmate of the Week - YNC Stepheni Norton

Published Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 11:00:16 CDT

Congratulations to Chief Petty Officer Stepheni Norton, Port Security Unit 311, on being selected as Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year. Chief Norton was also featured as the "Shipmate of the Week" on the Coast Guard Compass blog.

Norton is assigned to the operational support division of the port security unit where her administrative leadership supports the entire unit in boundless ways. She has issued 130 personnel orders; led the unit's department heads in major update of all unit instructions; led administrations preparations for a Coast Guard-wide assessment, receiving a 100 percent score and best-in-fleet assessment; and processed 500 travel claims with zero discrepancies.

Base Detachment St. Louis - USCG DEERS/RAPIDS Site of the Year

Published Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 11:00:16 CDT

UNCLAS //N01650//
ALCGPSC 053/13
SUBJ: 2012 USCG DEERS/RAPIDS SITE OF THE YEAR

1. It is my distinct pleasure to announce Base Detachment St. Louis as this years Coast Guard Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS)/Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) Site of the Year. Each Coast Guard site was evaluated on the following criteria:
   1. Common Access Card (CAC) failure rate.
   2. Maintaining satisfactory utilization rates.
   3. Maintaining two or more certified Site Security Managers at all times.
   4. Returning equipment in a proper and timely manner.
2. The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness selected Base Detachment St. Louis for its outstanding performance in support of the DEERS/RAPIDS program during the period of 1 October, 2011 through 30 September, 2012. Base Detachment St. Louis was the only CG Site to receive a 100 point rating on their evaluation. The sites superior service to all active duty, reserve, retired members, civilians, contractors, and eligible beneficiaries while maintaining exceptional CAC failure rates, workstation utilization and overall customer satisfaction reflects great credit upon the U.S. Coast Guard and its continuing partnership with the Department of Defense. Further, Base Detachment St. Louis outstanding dedication to the reduction of fraud and abuse, and the production of the Uniformed Services Identification Cards is highly commendable.
3. Congratulations to Base Detachment St. Louis, Semper Paratus.
4. POC: Ms. Jacqueline H. Smith, USCG DEERS/RAPIDS Project Officer, 703-872-6642.
5. RDML Dave Callahan, Commander, CG Personnel Service Center, sends
6. Internet Release Authorized.

E-Mail ALSPO E-13; Direct Access/Image Now Systems Availability

Published Date: Mon, 13 May 2013 14:00:16 CDT
E-Mail ALSPO message E/13 announces service interruptions and outages anticipated to occur during the transition to a new commercial internet service hosting provider.

• Direct Access/Image Now Systems Availability

Advance Pay and PCS Allowance Policy Reminder

Published Date: Thu, 09 May 2013 14:00:16 CDT

Per ALCOAST 422/12, Servicing Personnel Offices (SPO) shall only approve requests for advance pay of up to one month if applicants meet the conditions in paragraph 2 of the message. Any request for two or three months advance pay must be approved by the member's commanding officer in consideration of the guidelines in paragraphs 3.A through 3.E of the message. PCS travel and transportation advances are limited to 80% of the estimated travel and transportation costs to include MALT, per diem, DLA, and TLE. Payment must not be made more than 30 days before the member detaches, except under extenuating circumstances (e.g., member moves dependents before detaching).

Yeoman Occupational Analysis Survey

Published Date: Wed, 08 May 2013 14:00:16 CDT

The Yeoman Occupational Analysis Survey has been out for a couple weeks now. Every YN in the Coast Guard received this survey. So far only 59% of the YNs in the CG have taken it. That's not bad but we need to work on increasing this number.

Sadly, YNC's (E-7) and below have the lowest return rate. Let's work to increase the percentage of surveys completed!

Every YN is urged to complete this survey as soon as possible. Your input will impact the YN future and will drive advancement requirements for the next five years. I cannot stress enough the importance of taking the time to thoroughly complete this survey. Please share this with your fellow YNs and urge them to complete the survey as well.

Your voice does count, so please take the survey so your voice is heard. You CAN make a difference, but you NEED to take the survey.

Please, please, ensure you and your fellow YNs take a few moments to complete the Yeoman Occupational Analysis Survey. Let's strive for a 100% return rate!

Verifying PCS Order Funds Obligations

Published Date: Fri, 03 May 2013 12:00:16 CDT

Per the Web-TPAX Advance Signature Proxy (ASP) Tutorial, the ASP must verify that funds have been obligated prior to requesting and advance. To speed the process of receiving authorization for approving PCS advances when the FINCEN Query by Document (CGWEB Link) shows the TONO does not exist or funds are not obligated, send an e-mail inquiry to Ms. Shannon Dorsey at DCMS, Shannon.t.dorsey@uscg.mil. Include in the email the member's name, EMPLID, PCS TONO, DA status of orders and date of status. (Note: It takes about 10 days for the obligation to take place after the SPO places the order in a ready status.)

Direct Access and Imaging System Outage 28 May-03 June

Published Date: Fri, 03 May 2013 09:00:16 CDT

As announced in CG-1's Flag Voice #365, a new contract has been awarded for the hosting of our Human Resources (HR) systems, Direct Access (DA) and HR Imaging System (ImageNow/WebNow). During the transition to the new provider, DA and the Imaging System will not be available. Here is the timeline for the transition:

1. 28 May - HR Imaging taken offline at 1600 EDT*
2. 30 May - Direct Access taken offline at 2000 EDT
3. 03 Jun - Direct Access and HR Imaging on line in regular production environments at 0800 EDT.

*During the period 28 May to 03 June PPC will not be able to process user access forms for TPAX or Direct Access. PPC will resume processing user access forms when the imaging system becomes available.

Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) for Reservists

Published Date: Thu, 02 May 2013 15:00:16 CDT

Source: ALCGRSV 022/13

TAMP provides reservists and their dependents 180 days of transitional health care benefits upon completion of orders for contingency operations as defined by Title 10 U.S.C. 101(a)(13). The FY13 National Defense Authorization Act, Public Law 112-239 amended Title 10 U.S.C. 101(a)(13) by including mobilization of Coast Guard Reservists under 14 U.S.C. 712 for domestic contingencies.

After the completion of qualifying orders, reservists and their dependants are coded as TAMP-eligible in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) and will automatically be covered under TRICARE Standard. During TAMP, a reservist may enroll or re-enroll in TRICARE Prime, including US Family Health Plan, which is offered in certain designated service areas of the United States and overseas. TAMP status will not be changed in DEERS unless the member executes new orders greater than 30 consecutive days. Members on Active Duty for Training (ADT) or Inactive Duty Training (IDT) maintain TAMP status within DEERS.

• For reservists who execute non-contingency orders in excess of 30 days, such as ADOS, TAMP eligibility continues to run concurrently with the orders. Members released from non-contingency orders must contact their assigned Servicing Personnel Office (SPO), DEERS, and Managed Care Support Contractor (MCSC) (regional TRICARE office) to ensure TAMP eligibility.
• Reservists who execute new contingency orders of greater than 30 consecutive days, as defined in Title 10 U.S.C. 101(a)(13), would earn a new 180-day period of TAMP upon release from active duty.

Additional information regarding TAMP eligibility and enrollment options is available at www.tricare.mil/TAMP or by calling the Coast Guard Health Benefits help line at 1-800-9HBA-HBA.

Career Counseling for YN2's & YN3's transferring in AY 2014

Published Date: Thu, 02 May 2013 15:00:16 CDT

As most of you already know we have made changes to the YN Assignment process. Mr. Jennings will assign E-6 - E-9 and I will be assigning E-5's and below (including all 'A' School billets). I wanted to reach out to you to help make this upcoming (AY-14) assignment year a success. In an effort to ensure better communication, I would like to talk with every YN2 and YN3 that is transfer eligible this year during the Career Counseling timeframe (1 May - 30 August). To do that I am going to need your help to ensure that all YN see this email to have the opportunity to call me. If you know of units that have a YN2 or 3 but not a Senior YN or PERS, please forward this to them as well.

In my first year I found it interesting that less than 10% of the rotation eligible YN called during this timeframe, however, a much bigger number called once they received their orders. It stands to reason that if they call on the front end and receive the proper counseling they will not be surprised with their orders. One big change that I am making this year is that I will not be sending out a 'leftover' list to ANY YN2's or YN3's. So these Career Counseling calls will be vital to ensure the YN have realistic e-resume's and are on the same page as I am as for as expectations. To that end I will be tracking who does and does not call me.

Again, I am asking for your help to please give this email the widest dissemination possible. Let your members know that they can either IM or email me and I will get back with a time for them to call me. Thank you and have a great day.

v/r

CWO4 Dave Schuster
CG Personnel Service Center
YN Assignment Officer
(703) 872-6608 - work
(703) 872-6665 - fax
http://www.uscg.mil/psc/epm/AO/YN.asp

Travel Approving Official eNewsletter 01 May 2013/ PCS Travel Advances

Published Date: Wed, 01 May 2013 13:00:16 CDT

Approving Officials and Advance Signature Proxies,

As of 1 April 2013 all military PCS travel advances are submitted through Web TPAX by the Advance Signature Proxy. The ASP permission is given to Yeomen assigned to the SPO that have the CGHRS or CGHRSUP Direct Access permission. The updated CG-7421A has been posted on the PPC website. PCS advances sent to PPC via fax will not be processed. Travelers who need TDY advances may submit through Web TPAX or by fax with an SF-1038 and a copy of the signed orders.

When processing PCS orders with advances, refer to Chapter 2.A.8 of the Personnel and Pay Procedures manual. A completed original PCS travel order signed by the Approving Official must be scanned and uploaded to Web TPAX. The image must be in the Portable Document Format (PDF). In the Image Description field, do not name it the same as the file name, this will cause an error in the application. Before you begin the PCS advance, ensure the PCS travel advances are correctly listed on the order. Each entitlement will be separated with the total amount and the advance amount shown. IAW ALCOAST 422/12, PCS travel and transportation advances are limited to 80 percent of the estimated travel and transportation costs to include, MALT, per diem, DLA, and TLE. If the member is requesting an advance on an entitlement and is authorized other entitlements, 80 percent of the requested entitlement will be paid.

Example:

MEMBER PER DIEM             _______ @ 80% _________
MEMBER MALT                 _______ @ 80% _________
DEPENDENT(S) PER DIEM       _______ @ 80% _________
DEPENDENT(S) MALT           _______ @ 80% _________
DLA                         _______ @ 80% _________
TLE                         _______ @ 80% _________
TOTAL                       _______ @ 80% _________

PCS TRAVEL ADVANCE AUTHORIZED FOR $___________

Do not submit the PCS advance to PPC when it is greater than 35 days before the member detaches. The additional five days accounts for processing time and making payment to the member. Per the Coast Guard Supplement to the Joint Federal Travel Regulations (CGS-JFTR), COMDTINST M4600.17(series), paragraph 5020, payment of advances must not be made more than 30 days before the member detaches, except under extenuating circumstances. If you need to submit a PCS advance to PPC greater than 35 days due to extenuating circumstances, the SPO Approving Official may submit a PPC Customer Care Ticket with details.

The Coast Guard no longer obligates PCS TONOs as a doc type 12, these doc types are converted to a doc type 19. All PCS obligations for travel can be viewed in the FINCEN Query by Document website by changing the first two numbers on the TONO. For example, a member is issued TONO 1213G13MNO11Z000 on their PCS travel order. Prior to the AO approving the PCS advance in Web TPAX, the AO must check for funds obligation under 1913G13MNO11Z (minus the suffix). If the funds are obligated, the AO may approve the PCS advance. The obligation takes place a couple days after the orders have been placed in a Ready Status. To place orders in a Ready Status, the CGHRSUP must approve the orders in DA. If the funds have not been obligated, the AO must wait for DCMS to obligate the funds. The TONO on the orders shall remain a 12 doc type.

Resources:

• ASP/AO Tutorial
• FINCEN Query by Document (CGWEB Link)
• PPC Travel Website
• CG-7421A, TPAX/WINIATS User Access Authorization & Approving Official (AO) Designation
• CG-2000, PCS Departing Worksheet
• Personnel & Pay Procedures Manual (PPPM), PPCINST M1000.2(series), Chapter 2

CWO3 JAY BENBOW
TRAVEL BRANCH CHIEF
COAST GUARD PAY & PERSONNEL CENTER

Servicing Personnel Office Newsletter April 2013

Published Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:00:16 CDT

Issue 02/13 (April) of the Coast Guard Servicing Personnel Office Newsletter is now available.

In this issue:

• BAH for Single Recruit, OCS, or Academy Graduates In-Transit
• Reviewing the Monthly LES for Overseas COLA Discrepancies
• April 2013 Military Payroll Processing Complete
• SPO Alignment Update
• 2013 Enlisted High Year Tenure FAQs
• Correction to FY 2013 Special Duty Assignment Pay Codes
• Government Travel Charge Card Program Updates an PCS Reminders
• DEERS/RAPIDS Lockdown

SPO Newsletter Issue 02/13 (April)

April 2013 Military Payroll Processing Complete

Published Date: Wed, 24 Apr 2013 11:00:16 CDT

April Leave and Earnings Statements Posted:

LESs for April are available. Go to "View Paycheck" in Direct Access under Employee Self Service to view.

The official pay date for end-month April 2013 is 1 May 2013

April Reserve Points Statements Posted:

Reserve retirement point data for April 2013 is available. Go to "View Reserve Points" in Direct Access under Self Service to view.

Correction to FY 2013 Special Duty Assignment Pay Codes (E-Mail ALSPO H/12)

Published Date: Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:00:16 CDT

E-Mail ALSPO H/12 Correction: Due to a misinterpretation of the line breaks on ALCOAST 425/12, E-Mail ALSPO H/12 (FY 2013 SPECIAL DUTY ASSIGNMENT PAY CODES) listed the SDAP as SD-2 for the following CMCs; ALC, SFLC, MFPU, RFMC, C4IT, and SELC School Chief. The SDAP for these CMCs is actually SD-1 per the ALCOAST as shown below.

Reminder: BAH for Single Recruit, OCS, or Academy Graduates In-Transit

Published Date: Fri, 12 Apr 2013 15:00:16 CDT

NEW LONDON, Conn. - Photo of events during the Coast Guard Academy's 131st commencement exercise May 16, 2012, in New London, Conn. In all, 233 cadets received their diplomas and commissions as new ensigns in the Coast Guard. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

With the graduates of the Coast Guard Academy Class of 2013 reporting in to their first permanent duty stations this summer, PPC (mas) would like to remind you that single graduates from basic training, OCS and the Academy, with no prior service, are entitled to BAH-Transit Rate while in transit to their first permanent duty station (PDS). The Reporting SPO must input the BAH-Transit Rate start (effective date of PCS departure) and the BAH-Transit Rate stop (effective the day prior to PCS reporting) along with the reporting endorsement and transactions to record BAH entitlement at the member's or officer's first PDS. If the member or officer acquires a dependent or dependents while en route PCS, the reporting SPO shall:

1. Stop BAH-Transit Rate the day prior to the date the change in dependency is effective and
2. Start BAH-With/Dependents (if appropriate) using the zip code for the location of the member's dependent(s) effective the day the dependency change was effective. (Note: Review the Pay Manual before starting BAH especially if the member is married to another member or is not married and has a child).
3. Submit the transaction to start BAH or OHA at the rate for new PDS and government quarters assignment status effective the date the member or officer reports to their first PDS.

See PAYMAN, 3-G-5d. (Members in Transit/New Accessions) & Fig 3-19 (Rule 7) and the PPC SPO Manual, Part II, Chapter 10-1, Basic Allowance for Housing, BAH During PCS, for more information.

Note: Always approve the PCS Reporting Endorsement before approving the PCS entitlement rows:

• The PCS Reporting Endorsement must be approved first by the CGHRSUP Role User. After the PCS Reporting Endorsement is approved, then it is time to review the member's current pay entitlements by clicking the Employee Entitlements link and submit entitlement rows as necessary to start Pay and Allowances applicable for the member's new duty station and/or duty status.
• When the PCS pay entitlements are incorrectly approved prior to approving the PCS Reporting Endorsement, pay delays and/or pay problems result for our members. The PCS Reporting Endorsement is designed to "stop" certain pay entitlements in JUMPS. When approved out of sequence, the PCS Reporting Endorsement can incorrectly shut down allowances the member is entitled to receive.
• See "PCS Reporting Endorsement" in Part IV, Chapter 5, of the DA SPO Manual.

Reviewing the Monthly LES for Overseas COLA Discrepancies

Published Date: Fri, 12 Apr 2013 15:00:16 CDT

By Mr. Sean Hayes, PPC (mas) 12 Apr 2013

As a simple reminder: Please review the monthly LES' as they come to the SPO to ensure that your personnel are receiving accurate and reliable pay.

I have recently completed audits of personnel that were authorized DUAL OCOLA entitlements. I discovered that several personnel were over or underpaid due to JUMPS not properly updating the daily rate. Accurate and effective review of the monthly LES can avoid large discrepancies in pay for our members.

Since there are several variables that provide the appropriate payment for a member overseas, periodically reviewing DoD's entitlement website (http://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/) would be helpful in this endeavor. Being off by just 5 cents, adds up quickly. For one member I reviewed, he was underpaid 5 cents per day for one year, then overpaid by 85 cents per day, resulting in nearly a $300 debt!

Another example is that I recently reviewed a report where there were 11 personnel that had 2 open SGLI (segment 32 in JUMPS) segments, resulting in double deductions. By law, PPC can only reimburse up to 2 months of erroneous deductions requiring PPC to request from COMDT authority to reimburse the additional monies due the member. One member on my report had infrequent deductions dating all the way back to January 2009, resulting in over $850 in erroneous deductions.

While it is ultimately the member's responsibility to ensure that their own pay is accurate, many members do not fully understand their authorized entitlements/benefits. It is up to you to help educate them and to help ensure that they are being paid accurately and timely.

Thanks, Sean Hayes

Servicing Personnel Office Newsletter

Published Date: Mon, 01 Apr 2013 15:00:16 CDT

Issue 01/13 (January - March) of the Coast Guard Servicing Personnel Office Newsletter is now available.

In this issue:

• New HR Systems Hosting Contract Awarded
• Free Electronic Tax Service
• Clarification Entitlement to Imminent Danger -- Hostile Fire Pay for Cuba
• Mandatory Assignment to OCONUS Government Controlled Housing
• Military Leave 75 Day Carryover Limit Extended
• Warning: Apple App store offering TSP App not sanctioned by TSP
• Payroll Processing Schedule For Calendar Year 2013
• Guidance for Passports
• Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan
• SPO Alignment Working Group Progress Report
• PCS Orders for Members Assigned to PATFORSWA
• New Coast Guard Supplement to the JFTR Issued
• New Procedure for PCS Travel Advances
• 2013 PCS Season Resources
• YN Rating Force Notes Posted

SPO Newsletter Issue 01/13 (January - March)

YN Rating Force Notes

Published Date: Fri, 29 Jan 2013 13:00:16 CDT

The March 2013 issue of the YN RATING FORCE NOTES is available in the CGPortal: https://cglink.uscg.mil/a4432855

The YN RATING FORCE NOTES is published by YNCM Julie A. Gunderson, Yeoman Rating Force Master Chief, COMDT (DCMS-81).

This issue includes the following articles:

1. YN Points of Contact
2. Coast Guard Yeoman Guiding Principles
3. YN RFMC News
4. YN Occupational Analysis Task Validation Meeting
5. Global Pay/Tech Refresh Project Testing
6. SPO Alignment Working Group (SPOA-WG)
7. YN Assignment Officer News
8. YN A School News
9. YN Rating Knowledge Manager News
10. FORCECOM Compliance Team gives Bravo Zulu
11. EER Waivers
12. Tips When Completing EERs in Direct Access
13. BAH Rate Protection
14. Coast Guard Supplement to the JFTR
15. PCS and Electronic Files
16. SPO Best Practices
17. SPO Stand Down
18. Peak Performance
19. Your Articles WANTED!
20. American Management Association webinars
21. Force Strength, Advancements and Retirements and Statistics

Personally Procured Household Goods Movement (PPM) Guidance (ALCOAST 94/13)

Published Date: Wed, 27 Mar 2013 12:00:16 CDT

Thinking of conducting a personally procured move (PPM), formerly known as do-it-yourself move (DITY), this transfer season? ALCOAST 094/13 provides guidance you must follow if you expect to be reimbursed for a PPM.

Transfer Season 2013 Household Goods (HHG) Shipping Information

Published Date: Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:00:16 CDT

ALCOAST 132/13
COMDTNOTE 4050

SUBJ: TRANSFER SEASON 2013 HOUSEHOLD GOODS (HHG) SHIPPING INFORMATION AND MANDATORY CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY

1. Transfer season 2013 will be in full swing soon and whether a member is performing a long distance permanent change of station (PCS) move or a funded short distance move, HHG counseling is necessary. HHG counseling may be conducted in person by a Transportation Officer (TO), or members may self counsel using the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). Requests for short distance HHG moves, including those to or from unusually arduous sea duty, must be forwarded to COMDT (CG-1222) for consideration.
2. The time period between 15 May and 31 July is the peak of the HHG moving season. If at all possible, members should avoid requesting a HHG shipment during this peak season. As soon as possible after receipt of authenticated Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, members should contact their HHG transportation office to request a HHG movement, or self counsel in DPS. The earlier a HHG shipment is requested the more likely the requested packing, pick-up, and delivery dates can be met. Requested dates are not guaranteed, so members should not cancel or enter into a rental agreement, lease, or buy or sell a home until they have verified with their TO and their Transportation Service Provider (TSP) that their requested dates are confirmed.
3. After a member receives their authenticated PCS orders, please direct them to www.move.mil to register in DPS. DPS allows members and spouses to self counsel, request HHG packing, pick-up and delivery dates, and file any necessary damage claims directly with the TSP from their desk or home. After a member registers in DPS, it will take up to 72 hours to receive their user name and password to schedule their move. Because a common access card is required to register in DPS, members conducting their first or last move (accession, separation, or retirement) should visit a transportation office to set up their HHG shipment.
4. DPS is not available underway. If members assigned afloat cannot schedule their HHG movements while in port, they may see their legal assistance office or transportation office to grant another person a special power of attorney to schedule their HHG movements.
5. During HHG peak season it may be difficult to secure a Government contracted TSP that meets everyones desired packing, pick-up, and delivery dates. If a TSP cannot be contracted that meets a members desired dates, members have the option to conduct a Personally Procured Move (PPM), previously known as a Do-It-Yourself Move. If a member properly conducts a PPM they will receive an incentive payment up to 95 percent of what it would have cost the Government to move their HHGs based on certified weight tickets, not to exceed their maximum weight allowance, at the Governments best value rate in one shipment. More information on PPMs will be published in a separate ALCOAST.
6. Exceeding HHG weight limits is the number one reason members pay excess costs for HHG shipments. To avoid paying excess costs members must be aware of their maximum HHG weight allowance, found in the Joint Federal Travel Regulations (JFTR), U5310.b.2. To reduce HHG weight and prevent excess costs, members are encouraged to dispose of any unwanted or unneeded HHG. To help estimate HHG weights, a weight estimating tool is available on the www.move.mil web site. Also, the TSP will estimate the weight of members HHG during the pre-move survey. If a member desires a witnessed HHG reweigh it must be requested before HHGs are delivered. It is not possible to reweigh HHGs after delivery.
7. Professional books, papers, and equipment, also known as pro gear, do not count toward a members HHG weight allowance. However, all items claimed as pro gear must meet the definition of pro gear in JFTR U5310-C and JFTR Appendix A. Items not meeting the description of pro gear will count toward a members maximum HHG weight allowance. Because spousal pro gear is limited to 500 pounds, a member cannot combine their pro gear with spousal pro gear. An itemized inventory of spousal pro gear must be provided to the TO at the time of counseling and must indicate the profession for which the items are being used (e.g. lawyer, doctor, teacher). The itemized inventory of spousal pro gear must be certified by the members signature.
8. Members are responsible for ensuring pro gear is separated from HHG during packing and weighed separately during pick-up. All pro gear must be identified as such on the TSP inventory sheet at origin and the estimated weight must be entered on the Application for Shipment and/or Storage of Personal Property, DD Form 1299. Ensure the term M-PRO is used to identify the military members pro gear and S-PRO is used to identify spousal pro gear. Each line item for pro gear must indicate M-PRO/S-PRO, cubic ft, and pounds. Pro gear cannot be claimed after the fact. There are no exceptions or waivers to this policy.
9. Another important feature of DPS is the ability to grade a TSPs performance by submitting a Customer Satisfaction Survey (CSS). The CSS process is simple and its importance cannot be overstated. The CSS is used to document positive and negative experiences and helps determine the number of military HHG shipments a TSP will receive in the future. Because the CSS can only be completed after delivery of HHG, members should make note of anything positive or negative they would like to include in their CSS.
10. Damage claim submission is the responsibility of the member. Completion and submission of the Joint Statement of Loss or Damage at Delivery, DD Form 1840 by the member and TSP, and the Notice of Loss or Damage, DD Form 1840R by the member after the TSP departs does not constitute filing a claim. These forms are only used for proper notification of loss or damage to a TSP. A claim is separate and distinct, and must be submitted in a timely manner. See www.move.mil and the Coast Guard Finance Centers (FINCEN) web site www.fincen.uscg.mil/hhg.htm for guidance on HHG damage claim submissions. If a TSP offers to submit a claim on a members behalf, the member should decline the TSPs offer and request all documentation associated with their move to submit the claim themselves.
11. Full replacement value (FRV) protection now applies to all HHG shipments. It is important for service members to understand that FRV does not mean that a member will receive the full replacement cost for every item lost, damaged, or destroyed. To find more information on FRV a member can visit the Army Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC) web site www.sddc.army.mil/pp/default.aspx. If a member desires additional HHG damage insurance they may purchase it from a private insurance provider.
12. The pamphlet "Its Your Move" contains guidance about shipping HHGs. This pamphlet and other useful HHG information are available at www.fincen.uscg.mil/hhg.htm. Additional HHG transportation information can also be found at the SDDC web site www.sddc.army.mil/pp/default.aspx.
13. In accordance with JFTR, par. U5417, members with dependents who own more than one POV may ship a second POV within the Continental United States (INCONUS). However, the member and their dependents must travel together in one POV, and commercial travel at government expense is not authorized for the member or any dependents. The Governments reimbursement for transporting a second POV will be limited to the monetary allowance in lieu of transportation (MALT) plus per diem a member or dependent would have been entitled to for non-concurrent travel by two POVs to the new PDS, or the actual cost to ship a second POV whichever is less. Any excess costs incurred to ship a second POV will be borne by the member. Members must personally arrange for shipment of a second POV INCONUS and are not entitled to reimbursement for delivery to, or pick-up from the carrier. Members orders must reflect this entitlement and display the maximum reimbursement computations. The entitlement to ship a POV INCONUS when the member is physically unable to drive or there is insufficient time in accordance with JFTR, par. U5415 may only be authorized by COMDT (CG-1222).
14. To ensure members are aware of their HHG transportation entitlements and the requirements of this ALCOAST commands are to ensure that all members departing PCS receive a printed copy of this ALCOAST. Also, HHG counseling should be placed on each units PCS check in/out sheet.
15. COMDT (CG-1222) POC is CWO Randy Jeffery at 202-475-5393, James.R.Jeffery@uscg.mil or Mr. Tony Pearson at 202-475-5368, Anthony.H.Pearson@uscg.mil.
16. RADM Steven E. Day, Acting Director Reserve and Military Personnel Policy sends.
17. Internet release authorized.

SPO Alignment Working Group Progress Report

Published Date: Tue, 26 Mar 2013 10:00:16 CDT

The Servicing Personnel Office (SPO) Alignment Working Group's (SPOA WG), first progress report is available from the Personnel Service Center Business Operations Staff web page.

• The Servicing Personnel Office (SPO) Alignment Group Charter Progress Report, 20 March 2013 is posted for information only. It is pre-decisional and not authority for any action.

The SPOA WG was charted by Commandant (CG-1) to conduct a comprehensive review of existing SPO operations. You can read the charter here .

WebNow Outage

Published Date: Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:00:16 CDT

CG-631 and the WebNow/ImageNow server provider are still working to identify and resolve the WebNow access issue. SPOs will not be able to reconcile SPO-PDRs with EI-PDRs until access is restored.

PSC Military Records and BOPS-C staff have access to EI-PDRs through ImageNow, which is unaffected but has limited licenses. Urgent requests for copies of EI-PDRs and urgent board entries have been and will continue to be fulfilled by these staff members. SPOs can submit requests to obtain urgent copies of EI-PDRs, via email to ARL-PF-CGPSCOFFRecords@uscg.mil, for officer records, or to ARL-PF-CGPSCENLRecords@uscg.mil for enlisted records. Members can still obtain copies of their EI-PDR by following the instructions at http://www.uscg.mil/psd/mr/.

Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) Information for Reserve Personnel

Published Date: Wed, 20 Mar 2013 14:00:16 CDT

Information for reservists who are between 20-years satisfactory service and reaching age 60.

If you have no spouse or children at the 20-year point, and later acquire a spouse and/or children you may elect to enroll your new beneficiaries in the RCSBP. You must request enrollment by completing a CG-11221, Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) Option - Election Certificate , within one year of obtaining a spouse and/or child. A copy of the marriage and/or birth certificate must accompany request.

If you elect spouse coverage under Option B (deferred annuity) or C (immediate annuity), and your spouse dies, you may suspend your RCSBP spouse coverage. You must notify us and provide a copy of the death certificate. If you elected coverage for both spouse and children, your RCSBP child coverage would continue.

If you elect spouse coverage under Option B (deferred annuity) or C (immediate annuity), and later divorce, you have the following rights:

• You may suspend your RCSBP spouse coverage by providing a copy of your divorce decree.
• You may voluntarily elect to cover your former spouse under the RCSBP. Submit a written request, with a copy of your divorce decree.

If you remarry after losing your RCSBP spouse beneficiary, you have the following rights within one year of your remarriage:

• Provide the same RCSBP coverage you had for your previous spouse.
• Terminate your RCSBP spouse coverage.
• Increase your RCSBP Base amount up to full retired pay. (Additional costs will apply.)

NOTE: The opportunity to make any changes to your RCSBP election must be made within one year of your remarriage by written notification to us at the address provided below.

Commanding Officer (RAS)
U.S. Coast Guard Pay & Personnel Center
444 SE Quincy St
Topeka KS 66683-3591

WebNow Outage

Published Date: Mon, 18 Mar 2013 14:00:16 CDT

Access to WebNow through PeopleSoft (DOCS or SPO IPDR button) remains unavailable. CG-6 continues to work with the contractor to resolve the issues.

Direct Access Outage for Server Maintenance 17 March

Published Date: Fri, 15 Mar 2013 16:00:16 CDT

Direct Access will not be available for use from 0100 (CDT) to 0730 (CDT) on 17 March 2013 due to server maintenance.

Warning: Apple App store offering TSP App not sanctioned by TSP

Published Date: Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:00:16 CST

A free iPhone App, TSP Funds, currently being offered through the Apple App store asks TSP participants for their account login information. This app is not being offered through the TSP and the TSP does not recommend using this application to access your TSP account. Providing this information could result in a security risk to your account.

Guidance for Passports

Published Date: Tue, 05 Mar 2013 17:00:16 CST

OFFICIAL PASSPORT DIVISION STAFF

The Passport and Visa Division is located at Coast Guard Headquarters, in the Office of International Affairs and Foreign Policy (CG-DCO-I).

For all passport and visa inquiries, please email the passport division staff members at: uscgpassports@uscg.mil.

OFFICIAL PASSPORT AND VISA RESOURCES

Comprehensive, one-stop shopping for passport and visa information can be found at the DCO-I Passport and Visa CGPortal Page.

HELPFUL GUIDANCE

Ensure that all members who are PCS-ing to a new unit retain their official passport, and either keep it on their person or forwarded along with their PDR.

Do not return official passports to DCO-I unless the member is separating from the service for any reason (Relad, Discharge, Unqualified Resignation, Temp Sep, etc).

All newly issued passports, and any passport movement shall be entered into Direct Access.

PASSPORT AGENT TRAINING

CG-DCO-I holds 2 Passport Acceptance Agent Trainings per year at USCG Headquarters in Washington DC and is funded by the member's unit. If interested in attending, please send an email to: uscgpassports@uscg.mil or visit the DCO-I Passport and Visa CGPortal Page.

PPC Sponsored Workshops Suspended

Published Date: Mon, 04 Mar 2013 13:00:16 CST

PPC sponsored HRS and Reserve workshops are suspended through 30 September 2013.

No Annual YN Symposium in FY13

Published Date: Mon, 04 Mar 2013 13:00:16 CST

PPC does not plan to host a YN Symposium in FY-2013.

New HR Systems Hosting Contract Awarded

Published Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2013 13:00:16 CST

Direct Access and HR Imaging System Technical Refresh Status Update

Source: FLAG VOICE 365

In November 2012, the Coast Guard awarded a new contract to Addx to host our Human Resources (HR) systems, Direct Access (DA) and HR Imaging. The Coast Guard has now begun the process of migrating these systems from IBM, our Direct Access 8.0 host for the past eight years, to our new hosting provider. The new hosting contract requires 99.5 percent system availability with incentives for the provider to assure readiness of these critical systems. Additionally, the new hosting contract delivers a complete disaster recovery solution for both DA and the HR Imaging system, ImageNow.

Although the transition schedule has not been finalized, I anticipate that we will not experience the same down time that was part of the hosting relocation in June 2012. As the transition plan is refined and progresses, stakeholders will be brought into the process early to coordinate and mitigate possible impacts in their business operations. During this transition, there will be a short period of non-availability or reduced availability in mid to late May.

I will continue to provide updates in the form of Flag Voices and ALCOAST messages regarding the transition so that stakeholders and our users in the field are aware in advance of anticipated system down time. This transition is an important step in our DA Tech Refresh project, and this contract offers many new features, such as guaranteed levels of performance and disaster relief solutions, for the Coast Guard.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. The CG-1 point of contact for personnel matters is Mr. Dave Johnson, David.R.Johnson@uscg.mil. Field input regarding the DA Tech Refresh project may be communicated to PPC via the Customer Service phone number at (866) 772-8724 (toll free) or (785) 339-2200. The CG-6 point of contact for technical matters is Mr. Mark Meiczinger, Mark.Meiczinger@uscg.mil.

D. A. NEPTUN
Rear Admiral, USCG
Assistant Commandant for Human Resources

February 2013 Military Payroll Processing Complete

Published Date: Fri, 22 Feb 2013 13:00:16 CST

February Leave and Earnings Statements Posted:

LESs for February are available. Go to "View Paycheck" in Direct Access under Employee Self Service to view.

February Reserve Points Statements Posted:

Reserve retirement point data for February 2013 is available. Go to "View Reserve Points" in Direct Access under Self Service to view.

Direct Access Technology Refresh, February 2013 Upgrades:

The Direct Access Technology Refresh project continues in February. Active and reserve personnel have new functionality in the Thrift Savings Plan component, Retirees are able to make changes to their income tax withholding and SPOs now use Direct Access II to manage Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) and Family SGLI enrollments and elections. The upgrades took take place 21 February. The links below provide additional information:

• Direct Access Technology Refresh -- SGLI and FSGLI (PDF)
• Update to Thrift Savings Plan Self Service in Direct Access
• Self Service Federal and State Income Tax Withholding for Retirees

E-Mail ALSPO D/13; Direct Access Technology Refresh SGLI/FSGLI

Published Date: Fri, 15 Feb 2013 11:00:16 CST

E-Mail ALSPO D/13 transmits procedures for the maintenance of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) and Family Member SGLI (FSGLI) elections in Direct Access II. SGLI/FSGLI information and supporting business processes will move to Direct Access II on 21 February 2013.

ALSPO D/13 Link: http://www.uscg.mil/ppc/alspo/2013/D13TechRefreshSGLIandFSGLI.pdf

Direct Access Technology Refresh - Thrift Savings Plan (21 February)

Published Date: Fri, 15 Feb 2013 11:00:16 CST

The DA Tech Refresh project continues in February with upgrades to the SGLI/FSGI component for SPO users and enhanced functionality in the TSP component for Self-Service Users.

Coast Guard Military personnel, using DA Self Service, will have the ability to enroll in the Thrift Savings Plan and manage "Catch-Up" contributions. Prior to this update, TSP enrollments and Catch Up contribution elections required mailing or faxing a form to PPC. Effective 21 February, members can fully manage their TSP elections in DA Self Service as well as make changes to contribution amounts as they could in the old version. Refer to the Thrift Savings Plan Overview topic in the Direct Access Online Help for more information. A video, demonstrating the new features is also available.

Travel AO eNewsletter 05 February 13 / CG Supplement to the JFTR

Published Date: Thu, 06 Feb 2013 13:00:16 CST

Approving Officials,

I would like to announce the promulgation of the Coast Guard Supplement to the Joint Federal Travel Regulations (CGS-JFTR), COMDTINST 4600.17A. This new CGS-JFTR replaces a directive that served us well for almost 20 years.

The CGS-JFTR provides additional guidance to the travel and transportation regulations for military personnel and their dependents contained in the Joint Federal Travel Regulations Volume 1 (JFTR). If the CGS-JFTR conflicts with the JFTR, the JFTR takes precedence. There may be circumstances under which the payment of allowances is prohibited in the JFTR and in the CGS-JFTR; those circumstances are stated. The absence of a prohibition does not imply or grant authority or permission for any action for which authority does not exist/is not explicitly allowed in the JFTR or in the CGS-JFTR. Authorizing/Approving Officials (AOs) and travelers have the responsibility to ensure travel orders are complete, accurate, and lawful. If a statement or endorsement is on a travel order, the entitlements of such a statement or endorsement must be supported by the statutory regulations contained in the JFTR. Significant updates and clarifications to the JFTR travel and transportation regulations have been promulgated since the last CGS-JFTR issuance in 1993. Some of the most significant changes reflected in the new CGS-JFTR are listed below.

I strongly encourage members who coordinate travel and prepare travel orders to read this updated directive. Some aspects of military travel can be very complicated and challenging to understand. Our goal is to provide useful, easily understood direction within the CGS-JFTR. No paper distribution will be made of this Manual. An electronic version will be located on the Internet at http://www.uscg.mil/directives/cim/4000-4999/CIM_4600_17A.pdf

COMMANDANT (CG-1222)
ATTN: YNCM SNYDER
US COAST GUARD
2100 2ND ST SW STOP 7801
WASHINGTON DC 20593-7801

CGS-JFTR SIGNIFICANT UPDATES/CLARIFICATIONS PER THE JFTR

Par.
2020-E: Members attending a conference must have an approved Conference Attendance Form on file in accordance with the Conference Guide, available on CGPORTAL. Registration fees to attend a conference which is determined to be a training activity under 5 CFR 410.404 are reimbursable travel expenses.

2710-B: An AO has the right to request a receipt for questionable travel expenditures less than $75.

2800-A: The local area may include separate counties, cities, towns, or installations adjacent to or within 50 miles or less, or a two hour roundtrip commute as determined by DTOD, served by local public transit systems, or between which the commuting public travels on a daily basis, refer to Figures 4-1 (pg. 4-6) and 7-1 (pg. 7-7) when determining the entitlement to per diem.

3320-A: A compact car is the standard size rental vehicle authorized for TDY travel. The AO may authorize or approve an appropriately sized rental vehicle when it is determined that the standard size does not meet the mission requirements. Only one rental vehicle may be authorized or approved for a member, reimbursement for multiple rental vehicles at one time is not authorized.

4102-A: A member is not authorized per diem on any day not in a travel status or any day classified as leave (e.g., annual leave, sick leave, paternity leave, etc.) or administrative absence. Refer to the Military Assignments and Authorized Absences Manual, COMDTINST M1000.8 (series) for a complete listing of authorized absences. Refer to the JFTR, Paragraph U7225, for the lodging reimbursement authorized to a reserve member ordered TDY in support of a Contingency Operation who retains lodging at the TDY location during an authorized absence.

4105: Members under a voluntary TDY in support of a Contingency Operation order at one location in CONUS for more than 180 consecutive days are authorized a per diem rate equal to 55% of the applicable locality per diem rate (lodging and M&IE).

4131: A member who leases or rents an apartment, house, or recreation vehicle with other official or non-official traveler(s) must only be reimbursed the appropriate percentage of the following lodging expenses (e.g., two occupants - each receive 50%; three occupants - each receive 33%) not to exceed the applicable locality or the reduced per diem lodging rate prescribed.

4135: Dual lodging is limited to a maximum of seven consecutive days, extensions beyond seven consecutive days may only be approved after the fact by COMDT (CG-1222).

4137: Note: Effective for orders issued on or after 1 April 2013, a member who purchases a home TDY will not be entitled to the M&IE portion of per diem in accordance with Paragraph 4177.

5020: PCS travel and transportation advances are limited to 80% of the estimated travel and transportation costs to include MALT plus per diem, DLA, and TLE.

5100: In accordance with the JFTR, Paragraph U5355, on a case-by-case basis COMDT (CG-1222) may authorize or approve a local short distance HHG move to include DLA in connection with a PCS order when the member's residence or old PDS are within the local area of the new PDS and household relocation is mission essential, in the Government's best interest, and not primarily for the member's convenience, this would include a short distance HHG move for a member when the new or old PDS is an Unusually Arduous Sea Duty vessel in accordance with the JFTR, Paragraphs U5222-D2 and U5350-C.

5107: POC travel thru CONUS is not authorized for a consecutive overseas tour (COT) PCS order unless in accordance with Paragraph 7200-C, POC travel is authorized or approved by COMDT (CG-1222) because it has been determined to be cost advantageous to the Government.

5600-D: DLA is not authorized in connection with a PCS from home or from the place from which called/ordered to active duty (PLEAD) to the first PDS unless the member has dependents that relocate. This would include a reserve member issued a long-term active duty PCS order that is not currently on long-term active duty.

5600-E: A member married to member couple (with or without dependents) who both relocate in connection with a PCS during the same assignment season, from the same residence at the old PDS to the same residence at the new PDS, are only authorized the applicable DLA rate (with or without dependents) to one of the members, not both. An exception to this rule may be authorized if the member that remained at the old PDS was required to establish a new non-temporary residence and had a separate HHG shipment.

7150-A: Travel and transportation allowances are not authorized for travel between the member's primary residence/home/PLEAD and the place of active duty when both are in the corporate limits of the same city/town. When a member's primary residence/home/PLEAD is not within the corporate limits of the same city/town but is within the local area as defined in Paragraph 2800-A, one round trip during the active duty period may be reimbursed using the applicable TDY mileage rate determined by odometer reading, per diem would not be authorized. When determining the entitlement to per diem the DTOD is the only official source for determined TDY distances.

7200-A1: In-Place COT (IPCOT). Personnel who receive consecutive tours of duty at the same OCONUS PDS must have completed their initial tour length to include any extensions and their new assignment must be for the tour length contained in the Military Assignments and Authorized Absences Manual, COMDTINST M1000.8 (series), Articles 1.A.4.a.(1)-(3),(5) for officers and Article 1.A.4.b. for enlisted, to be entitled to IPCOT leave travel. The member must complete the first overseas tour regardless of billet reassignment at the PDS to qualify for IPCOT leave travel.

7200-A2: Note: The tour lengths (with or without dependents) contained in the Military Assignments and Authorized Absences Manual, COMDTINST M1000.8 (series) govern COT/IPCOT leave travel eligibility; any deviation in tour lengths (e.g., short tours) could adversely affect eligibility.

7200-C: COT travel performed by POC may be authorized or approved by COMDT (CG-1222) if determined to be cost advantageous to the Government. If POC use is authorized or approved the member is authorized MALT plus per diem. If a POC is used for PCS travel between two OCONUS PDSs without authorization or approval the member's reimbursement is limited to the policy constructed airfare contained in the JFTR, Appendix A.

7200-D: COT leave travel is meant to be taken between two OCONUS tours in connection with PCS travel and should only be deferred when the member is operationally unable to travel to the HOR or an alternate location en route. Commands should counsel detaching personnel eligible for COT leave travel as to this requirement. Deferral of COT leave travel for an eligible traveler that travels through CONUS, or through or near an OCONUS HOR may only be authorized by COMDT (CG-1222). Commands have no authority to authorize deferral of COT leave travel for an eligible traveler that travels through CONUS, or through or near an OCONUS HOR.

7450: When a member is ordered to travel for disciplinary action (e.g., NJP, Court-Martial) lodging, meals, and travel must be provided by the Government (Government conveyance or Government procured transportation). Payment of per diem, while traveling or while at the disciplinary action point is not authorized.

7450-A: If a POC is used for the ordered travel, the member is authorized the Other Mileage Rate contained in the JFTR, Paragraph U2600-A for the official distance and reimbursement for highway, bridge, tunnel tolls, and parking fees.

7960-A: The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010, Pub. L. No. 111-281, 124 Stat. 2905, signed into law on 15 October 2010 authorizes reimbursement for travel to specialty care less than 100 miles for a beneficiary and one necessary attendant residing on an island in CONUS which lacks public access roads to the mainland. The beneficiary must be enrolled in TRICARE Prime and referred to a specialty care provider by a primary care physician.

Competency Dictionary Update

Published Date: Fri, 02 Feb 2013 13:00:16 CST

The February 2013 Competency Dictionary has been posted online at http://www.uscg.mil/ppc/da/CompetencyDictionary.xls. The Competency Dictionary, a complete listing of Coast Guard competency codes is available for download. The revision date (01/31/2013) is listed in the spreadsheet. There's also a link in the file to COMDT (CG-1B1) for questions.

Please note that there are 7 new competencies (identified by blue text).

Please also note that IS004 - IS010 are currently under review by CG-212 to align with current field requirements. These competencies have also been "cleaned up" to reflect that recent inactivation of the IS001-IS003 competencies and the creation of the INTEL001 competency.

A new Competency Type has been added: DEFRED - Defense Readiness. And the requirements for the OS0030 competency have changed.

Thank you.

Competency Management
Future Force Project Division (CG-1B1)
JR08-1218

Competency Management Site: https://cgportal2.uscg.mil/communities/competency-mgmt-systems/Competency%20Management%20Systems/Forms/AllItems.aspx

Free Electronic Tax Service

Published Date: Fri, 02 Feb 2013 09:00:16 CST

CG SUPRT has launched the H&R Block at-home filing tax service enabling eligible members to file federal and state tax returns online. See ALCOAST 034/13 for details.

You must start your return from the CG SUPRT H&R Block At Home® link on the CG SUPRT Free Tax Filing Service web page to access this free offer.

Military Leave 75 Day Carryover Limit Extended

Published Date: Thu, 01 Feb 2013 17:00:16 CST

The maximum leave balance carryover limit of 75 days has been extended through 30 September 2014. The limit was set to return to 60 days on 30 September 2013. The extension was included in the Fiscal Year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act.

Clarification Entitlement to Imminent Danger -- Hostile Fire Pay for Cuba

Published Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2013 15:49:16 CST

PPC (MAS) has identified several overpayments of HF/ID pay for members in Cuba. The purpose of this email is to reiterate the policy for HF/ID pay for members in Cuba.

Areas designated as qualifying for HF/ID pay are listed in the DoD Financial Management Regulation (DOD FMR), Volume 7a: Military Pay Policy and Procedures - Active Duty And Reserve Pay, Chap 10, Figure 10-1 Designated Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay Areas.

"HF/ID pay for Cuba is limited to service members performing duties within the Joint Task Force Guantanamo Bay Detention Facilities."

Per the DOD FMR, members must be actually performing duties within the JTF detention facility to be entitled to HF/ID pay. This is different from other designated HF/ID land areas where the member usually just has to be in the country (e. g. Iraq or Afghanistan) to receive HF/ID pay.

To assist units and SPOs in the proper administration of HF/ID pay for Cuba we have added a requirement, to Chapter 7A of the Personnel and Pay Procedures Manual and Part II of the SPO Manual, to include logs showing the actual date(s) a member was on duty within the JTF Guantanamo Bay detention facilities as supporting documentation.

Reminder: Per ALCOAST 098/12, effective 1 January 2012 Imminent Danger - Hostile Fire Pay changed from a monthly entitlement to a prorated day-for-day entitlement. Members who performed qualifying service in designated areas prior to this change are entitled to the full monthly amount, $225, for service during any part of a month (i.e. 1 day in a designated area = $225). Members who perform qualifying service for less than a full month, on after 1 January 2012, will receive a daily prorated amount (i.e. 1 day in a designated area = $7.50). See http://www.uscg.mil/ppc/mas.asp#idhf for more information on the 2012 change.

PCS Orders for Members Assigned to Patrol Forces South West Asia (PATFORSWA)

Published Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:49:16 CST

During processing of PCS order notes for personnel in receipt of assignment to Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA) or attached mobile cutters please be advised that authorized delay has been changed to Sterling, VA vice Portsmouth, VA.

In accordance with the Personnel and Pay Procedures Manual, PPCINST M1000.2A - Chapter 2 Section F Movement of personnel to PATFORSWA. Please utilize most current Direct-Access order note template code "P4S", shown below:

Include these remarks in the PCS order notes:

Mandatory Assignment to OCONUS Government Controlled Housing

Published Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:49:16 CST

Per ALCOAST 016/13, we've added a requirement to the OUTCONUS Transfer Checklist in section 2-A of the Personnel and Pay Procedures Manual, PPCINST M1000.2 (series) for members with PCS orders reporting for duty outside of the continental United States to submit an Application for Assignment to Military Housing, Form CG-5267, to the housing office at their new duty stations.

YN Rating Force Notes

Published Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:49:16 CST

The December 2012 issue of the YN RATING FORCE NOTES is available in the CGPortal: https://cglink.uscg.mil/24535f14

The YN RATING FORCE NOTES is published by YNCM Julie A. Gunderson, Yeoman Rating Force Master Chief, COMDT (DCMS-81).

This issue includes the following articles:

1. YN Points of Contact
2. Coast Guard Yeoman Guiding Principles
3. YN RFMC News
4. Calling all YN Extraordinaire (YN Occupational Analysis solicitation)
5. Attention all YNCs -- EPME 12-8.03-P
6. PAO/ICOFR Annual Training
7. SPO Alignment Working Group (SPOA-WG)
8. YN Assignment Officer News
9. YN Rating Knowledge Manager News
10. Impact of Service Date Errors
11. SWE Employee Review Window
12. COLA ISSUES FOR OCONUS UNITS
13. OUTCONUS PHA REQUIREMENTS CHANGE
14. PCS and Household Goods (HHG) Shipments
15. Group Dynamics
16. Force Strength, Advancements and Retirements and Statistics

Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Rates for 2013

Published Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2013 13:49:16 CST

The 2013 BAH rates have been posted on the Defense Travel Management Office's BAH Calculator. Just enter the zip code for your duty station, your pay grade, and hit the calculator button. A new window will open to display the with and without dependents rates.

If you would like to know what happens to your pay when the BAH rate for your area is reduced from the previous year or how BAH rates are determined, or have any other questions about BAH, checkout the BAH FAQ.

Payroll Processing Schedule For Calendar Year 2013

Published Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2013 13:49:16 CST

E-Mail ALSPO message M/12 publishes the 2013 payroll processing schedule.

Payroll Processing Schedule For Calendar Year 2013

Servicing Personnel Office Newsletter

Published Date: Thu, 03 Jan 2013 13:49:16 CST

Issue 04/12 (October-December 2012) of the Servicing Personnel Office Newsletter is now available.

Issue 04/12 -- October - December

In this issue:

• Hurricane Sandy Reserve Demobilization Guidance
• Annual Direct Access User Account Revalidation
• High Dollar Overpayments
• 2012 PPC YN Symposium Notes from Question & Answer Sessions
• YN Rating Force Notes
• Revised Weight Program Frequently Asked Questions
• Change to EI-PDR Scanning and Verification Process
• Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Rates for 2013
• Combined Federal Campaign CFC Allotment Procedures
• Direct Access Technology Refresh -- Dependent Information