A complete guide for Central Government employees on availing LTC for block year 2022–2025. Learn rules, precautions, booking tips, LTC Dispensation Scheme benefits, air travel guidelines, required documents, and claim settlement tips.
Introduction
December 2025 marks the last month to avail Leave Travel Concession (LTC) for the block year 2022–2025. For many Central Government employees, LTC is a valuable opportunity to explore India with family while enjoying reimbursed travel fare.
However, improper booking, missing documents, or wrong declarations can lead to deductions or rejection of claims. This detailed guide explains the precautions, required documents, booking rules, and financial options you must be aware of before availing LTC.
1. Understanding LTC: Eligibility & Key Basics
✔ What LTC Covers
Under the Government of India rules, only the to-and-fro fare of the entitled class is reimbursed. This includes:
- Employee
- Spouse (even if working)
- Dependent children
- Dependent parents
✔ What is Not Covered
- Hotel/Accommodation charges
- Food expenses
- Local sightseeing charges (except for documentary proof of reaching the declared place)
2. Important Precautions While Availing LTC
Book Air Tickets Carefully
To avoid claim complications:
- Book air tickets at least 21 days prior to the travel date.
- If booking within 3 days of travel, a self-declaration explaining the reason must be uploaded on the Balmer & Laurie website.
Why book through Balmer & Laurie?
- LTC fares are shown separately.
- Premium tickets (with meals) are available under LTC.
- Cancellation charges are NIL or very minimal (₹200).
- Dedicated LTC booking option ensures compliance with rules.
Always ensure you click the “LTC” checkbox while booking.
3. Documentation: Don’t Miss These
✔ Declare the Farthest Point of Travel
The farthest destination in your travel itinerary must be declared as the official LTC location.
✔ Keep Mandatory Proofs
You MUST preserve:
- Taxi/Auto receipts
- Entry tickets
- Boarding passes
- Hotel bills (optional but helpful)
- Screenshots of flight options (for lowest fare rule)
These may be required during final LTC claim settlement.
4. All India LTC vs Home-Town LTC
If All India LTC Already Availed
Employees who already utilized All India LTC for 2022–25 can still opt for:
- Home-Town LTC
Home-Town LTC Conversion (Dispensation Scheme)
Valid till 26 September 2026, Home-Town LTC can be converted into All India LTC to travel to:
- Jammu & Kashmir
- Ladakh
- North Eastern States
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Major Benefit
Employees not entitled to air travel under normal LTC rules can still travel by air to these specified locations.
5. Lowest Air Fare Rule — Mandatory for LTC
While booking through authorized agents:
- Select the cheapest fare available within a 3-hour time slot.
Defined Time Slots
- 6–9
- 9–12
- 12–15
- 15–18
- 18–21
- 21–24
- 24–3
- 3–6
Tip:
Take a screenshot of all flight options showing the “lowest fare” for your time slot. This is often required during bill processing.
6. Financial Tips: LTC Advance & Leave Encashment
If you are facing a temporary financial crunch:
- You may apply for LTC Advance.
- Employees may also avail 10 days of Leave Encashment to meet travel expenses.
This ensures smooth planning without disturbing your monthly budget.
Conclusion
LTC is a wonderful opportunity to explore India with your family while enjoying government-supported travel reimbursement. With proper planning, timely bookings, and accurate documentation, you can avoid claim issues and enjoy a hassle-free travel experience.
So don’t miss out — pack your bags and explore the nation along with your loved ones before the LTC block year closes!