Leave Travel Concession(LTC) for Govt Employees and Teachers-How to Apply?
If you're a government employee or teacher in Kerala, you may be eligible to enjoy Leave Travel Concession (LTC) benefits for a family trip. This guide explains everything you need to know about Kerala Government LTC Rules, eligibility, conditions, and how to apply.
Eligibility for Kerala Government LTC
As per Kerala Government LTC Rules, all full-time government staff, including aided school and college teachers, can avail of LTC. However, to be eligible:
- The employee must have completed 15 years of service.
- This benefit can be used only once during the entire service period.
- LTC is not available for:
- Employees on suspension
- Those on Leave Without Allowance (LWA) for taking other jobs
- Temporary and part-time contingent staff
Who Can Travel Under LTC in Kerala?
The Kerala Government LTC Rules allow the employee and their family to travel. Family members include:
- Husband or wife
- Unmarried children
- Legally adopted children
It’s important to enter the names of eligible family members on page 5 of the employee's service book. A higher officer must verify these details when applying.
Distance, Duration, and Travel Conditions
- The maximum travel distance allowed is 6500 kilometers, including the return trip.
- Only the shortest and most direct route is considered for reimbursement.
- Employees can take 15 days of leave, including holidays.
- Advance Payment and Proof Submission
Employees can claim up to 90% of the total fare in advance before the trip, based on fund availability. To do this:
- Submit ticket copies along with the LTC application.
- Submit original travel documents within three months after the journey.
- If advance was taken, submit proof within one month after return.
- Failure to submit proof will result in salary deduction with interest.
Also, a written declaration about the chosen destination should be submitted before the trip.
LTC Reimbursement and Restrictions
According to Kerala Government LTC Rules, the government reimburses the exact fare for bus, train, or air travel. Note that:
- Extra allowances like DA, tour TA, and incidental expenses are not reimbursed.
- If both spouses are government employees, only one can claim LTC.
- A ‘not claimed’ certificate from the other is required.
Sanctioning and Penalty for Misuse
The controlling officer is responsible for approving LTC requests. In case of misuse:
- The entire amount must be repaid with 18% interest.
- Disciplinary action will also be taken.
Summary of Kerala Government LTC Rules
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Full-time staff with 15 years of service |
| Trip Duration | 15 days (including holidays) |
| Maximum Distance | 6500 km (return included) |
| Advance | Up to 90% allowed |
| Travel Mode | Bus, train, or air (actual fare reimbursed) |
| Applicable Once | Yes, only once in service |
Download LTC Kerala Handbook, Forms and Orders
You can download the latest Kerala Government LTC application form, official orders, and travel fare details from the Kerala Finance Department website.