Another key change involves revised timeframes for claim submissions. Employees who haven’t drawn an advance can now claim their LTC benefits within six months of travel, while those who availed an advance have a three-month window, provided the advance is fully repaid within that timeframe. This flexibility caters to situations where unexpected circumstances hinder timely claim submission.
However, repayment of the advance must be made in a single lump sum, and any delay will attract interest charges on the entire amount. This stipulation ensures responsible use of the advance facility.
These changes build on recent efforts to simplify LTC for central government employees. In October, the government eased the air ticket booking process, requiring authorised agents to provide flight details and label tickets specifically for LTC claims, along with a 10 per cent additional allowance.
Overall, the revised LTC regulations mark a positive step towards reducing bureaucratic burdens and improving employee convenience. Decentralised claim approvals, extended timelines, and clearer guidelines for advance usage pave the way for a smoother and more efficient travel benefit system.