DTS Outstanding Travel Orders (OTOs) and Zero-Dollar Vouchers

Start Here If You Are New to OTOs

An Outstanding Travel Order (OTO) is a DTS authorization that has not been properly closed out (no voucher submitted, not cancelled, or otherwise stuck in the system). The Marine Corps has approximately $21.8 million in OTOs from FY21 through FY25. OTOs contribute to material weaknesses in the Marine Corps full financial audit and undermine fiscal accountability. MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 effective 1 August 2025 establishes the current framework for closing OTOs through a tiered escalation. ODTA contacts at day 5 from trip end. NDEA submits a zero-dollar voucher at 30 days. The DTS PMO automates a zero-dollar voucher at 90 days. I&L LPS-D handles CBA reconciliation at 45 days. Specific exemption categories apply (TECOM FSTS, scheduled partial payments or advances, deceased travelers, CBA reconciliation, system anomalies). Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25, MCO 4650.39AMCO 4650.39A, MCO 7300.21BMCO 7300.21B, DODFMR Vol 9DODFMR Vol 9, DON ASN Memo dated 18 November 2020.

This page walks you through the OTO and zero-dollar voucher framework from your seat as a General Marine. By the end you will know.

• What an OTO is and why the Marine Corps targets them aggressively
• The $21.8M FY21-FY25 OTO impact on audit readiness
• The escalation timeline (day 5, 30, 45, 90)
• ODTA, NDEA, and DTS PMO roles
• Zero-dollar voucher procedure and routing
• The Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2 attachment
• The Zero Voucher routing list (PMO-only)
• Exemption categories from automated processing

Every fact on this page comes from MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25, MARADMIN 336/21MARADMIN 336/21, MCO 4650.39AMCO 4650.39A, MCO 7300.21BMCO 7300.21B, DODFMR Volume 9DODFMR Volume 9, DON ASN Memo dated 18 November 2020, JTR Chapters 4-5, and FPM Volume 2.

What an OTO Is

An Outstanding Travel Order (OTO) is a DTS authorization that remains open beyond the expected close-out window. The trip end date has passed but the authorization is not properly resolved through.

• Submitted and approved travel voucher (for executed trips), OR
• Cancelled authorization (for non-executed trips).

OTOs sit on the Marine Corps books as obligated funds that cannot be released for other use until resolved.

Why OTOs Matter (Audit Readiness)

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 2.

"The Marine Corps has approximately $21.8 million in OTOs from Fiscal Year (FY) 21 through FY25. OTOs directly contribute to material weaknesses identified in the Marine Corps' full financial audit, undermining audit readiness and fiscal accountability."

OTOs reduce.

• Available funding for other operational needs.
• Audit readiness.
• Fiscal credibility.

The Marine Corps' tiered approach to closing OTOs (MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25) targets material weakness reduction.

The OTO Escalation Timeline

Day 0. Trip End Date

The authorization trip end date passes.

Day 1-5. Traveler 5-Working-Day Voucher Window

Per JTR Chapter 4 and DODFMR Vol 9DODFMR Vol 9, the traveler must submit the voucher within 5 working days of return.

Day 5+. ODTA Outreach

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.d, ODTAs monitor the DTS Unsubmitted Voucher Report weekly. ODTAs.

• Contact travelers with unsubmitted vouchers.
• Coordinate with the FDTA on accounting issues.
• Track contact attempts and actions.

DTS sends daily system-generated notifications to the email in the traveler's profile.

Day 30+. NDEA Zero-Dollar Voucher

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.c, when an unsubmitted voucher exceeds 30 days from the trip end date, the ODTA coordinates with the assigned NDEA (Non-DTS Entry Agent) to.

• Initiate a zero-dollar voucher.
• Reduce the itinerary to one day with trip duration of 12 hours or less.
• Zero out expenses (do NOT delete).
• Attach a Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2 with the correct expense label.
• Sign and route through the standard AO chain.

Day 45+. I&L LPS-D CBA Reconciliation

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.a.1, Logistics Policy & Sustainment Distribution Branch (I&L LPS-D) initiates zero-dollar vouchers to remove reimbursable expenses and reconcile Centrally Billed Accounts (CBA) at 45 days past the trip end date. This reduces delayed CBA payments.

Day 90+. DTS PMO Automated Processing

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.a, the DTS PMO initiates automated zero-dollar vouchers for OTOs 90 days past the trip end date when commands fail to take corrective action within 30 days. Automated processing uses the Zero Voucher routing list.

Zero-Dollar Voucher Procedure

The zero-dollar voucher is the mechanism for closing an OTO when the traveler did not submit a regular voucher.

General Processing Instructions

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.c.1.

• Do NOT cancel the DTS authorization for an executed trip (cancellation removes ability to submit supplementals against the TANUM).
• Reduce the itinerary to one day with trip duration of 12 hours or less.
• Zero out expenses (do NOT delete the expense lines).
• Attach a Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2 as substantiating documentation.

Three Variants Based on Expense Type

Variant 1. Processing Without Reimbursable Expenses

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.c.2.

• Select the "Submitting a Zero-dollar Voucher" statement option.
• Sign and upload the completed Memo as a substantiating document.

Variant 2. Processing With Reimbursable Expenses

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.c.3.

• Upload a signed DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2 from the traveler.
• Complete voucher submission per JTR and MCO 4650.39AMCO 4650.39A.

Variant 3. Processing With CBA Expenses

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.c.4.

• Select the "Reconciling a CBA Transaction" statement option.
• Sign and upload the completed Memo as a substantiating document.
• ONLY zero out reimbursable expenses. Do NOT remove the CBA transaction.
• Removing the CBA transaction may prevent proper reconciliation of obligated funds.

Comments to the Approving Official

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.c.5.

Trip Not Executed

"Processing OTO in accordance with MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25. Traveler did not execute travel."

Trip Executed or Cancelled with Expenses

"Processing OTO in accordance with MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25. Traveler did not submit a voucher within 30 days of the authorization trip end date."

Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2

The Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2 is the substantiating document for zero-dollar vouchers. Located on the RFF DTS SharePoint at https://usmc.sharepoint-mil.us/sites/DCPR_RFF_External/DTS.

Critical Upload Instructions

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.c.6.

• Upload the Memo using the correct expense label.
• Both the Memo and DD 1351-2 (when applicable) shall be uploaded under "Add Expense - Documents."
• Select "Travel Voucher (Form) 1351-2" as the expense label.
• DO NOT upload as "Memo" or "Other."

Why Label Matters

Failure to use the correct expense label generates an "Audit Fail" flag, preventing the document from routing.

The Zero Voucher Routing List

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 4, the DTS PMO has established a dedicated "Zero Voucher" routing list specifically for processing zero-dollar vouchers. This list is automatically populated across all Marine Corps DTS organizations.

Restrictions

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 4.a.

• The Zero Voucher routing list is restricted to RFF DTS PMO personnel only.
• It is NOT authorized for general command use.
• Unauthorized modifications or use may result in improper document routing and processing delays of traveler documents.

Routing List Maintenance

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 4.b, when ODTAs use the Global Maintenance feature to add routing elements, they must ensure the Zero Voucher routing list is deselected.

Exemption Categories

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 5, the DTS PMO will process zero-dollar vouchers for all OTOs exceeding 90 days from the authorization trip end date EXCLUDING the following.

TECOM Formal School Training (FSTS) Authorizations

Per paragraph 5.a. TECOM FSTS records are excluded from automatic processing. TECOM Worldwide Travel handles these separately.

Authorizations With Scheduled Partial Payments or Advances

Per paragraph 5.b. These records are referred back to the command for research and reconciliation.

Deceased Traveler Records

Per paragraph 5.c. Vouchers for deceased travelers are NOT processed in DTS. All records associated with deceased travelers must be managed outside of DTS per MCO 4650.39AMCO 4650.39A. Before processing, contact the DTS PMO at OMB_HQMC_PR_RFF_DTS_GTCC@usmc.mil for further instructions.

CBA Reconciliation

Per paragraph 5.d. CBA records are excluded from automatic processing. I&L LPS-D actions OTOs with CBA expenses exceeding 45 days using the CBA reconciliation routing list.

Other Records

Per paragraph 5.e. Any DTS records that cannot be zero-vouchered due to system errors, data anomalies, or authorization complications are returned to the owning command for further research and resolution.

OTO Manual Reconciliation

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.f, manual de-obligations disrupt the standard DTS-to-accounting system interface and should only be executed on a case-by-case basis. Use only when DTS cannot interface with DAI due to systemic failures (authorizations or vouchers stuck in processing or routing errors).

Inaccessible or Non-Actionable Documents

Per paragraph 3.f.1, prior to initiating a manual de-obligation, thorough research must validate the root cause and confirm DTS is incapable of resolving the issue through standard functionality. Improper de-obligations may result in inaccurate financial reporting or audit findings. In some cases, a new DTS authorization or voucher may be required to properly account for obligated funds.

Debt Management

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.g, FDTAs collaborate with the servicing DTS Debt Management Monitor (DMM) to address actions resulting in a debt due to the U.S. Government. DMMs ensure required steps for proper debt identification and settlement are completed.

Key Stakeholder Roles

Traveler

• Submit voucher within 5 working days of return.
• Cancel authorization immediately if trip will not execute.
• Respond to ODTA outreach.
• Verify DTS profile email is current to receive notifications.

Organizational Defense Travel Administrator (ODTA)

• Monitor DTS Unsubmitted Voucher Report weekly.
• Notify travelers with unsubmitted vouchers.
• Coordinate with NDEA at 30 days for zero-dollar voucher initiation.
• Notify FDTA of accounting rejects.

Non-DTS Entry Agent (NDEA)

• Create and submit zero-dollar voucher when traveler has not submitted.
• Sign the voucher to initiate routing.
• Use the correct procedure based on expense type (no expenses, reimbursable, CBA).
• Attach the Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2 with correct expense label.

Finance Defense Travel Administrator (FDTA)

• Facilitate reconciliation of unsubmitted travel vouchers.
• Review transactions for accounting rejects, unmatched obligations, and discrepancies.
• Validate obligation status in the accounting system.
• Coordinate with G-8 for funding or accounting issues.

Approving Official (AO)

• Verify voucher accuracy.
• Ensure all required supporting documentation is attached (receipts, DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2, Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2).
• Confirm appropriate comments and justifications are included.

DTS PMO

• Initiate automated zero-dollar voucher processing at 90 days.
• Maintain the Zero Voucher routing list.
• Coordinate with I&L LPS-D, debt management, and accounting stakeholders.

I&L LPS-D

• Initiate zero-dollar vouchers at 45 days for CBA reconciliation.
• Maintain the CBA reconciliation routing list.

How to Avoid Becoming an OTO

Submit Vouchers On Time

Within 5 working days of return per JTR Chapter 4. The single best way to avoid OTO escalation.

Cancel Authorizations Promptly

If the trip will not execute, cancel immediately per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 3.b.1.

Monitor DTS Notifications

Verify the email in your DTS profile is current. DTS sends daily system-generated notifications for unsubmitted vouchers.

Coordinate With ODTA

If you have a barrier to voucher submission (deployment, illness, technical issue), coordinate with the ODTA before the 30-day NDEA threshold.

Resolve System Issues Quickly

If your authorization is stuck in routing, contact the DTA, ODTA, or DTS PMO. Stuck documents become OTOs.

Common Questions Marines Ask

What is an OTO?

An Outstanding Travel Order. A DTS authorization that has not been properly closed out (no voucher submitted, not cancelled, or stuck in the system) past the trip end date.

How much OTO does the Marine Corps have?

Approximately $21.8 million from FY21-FY25 per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25.

What happens if I do not submit my voucher?

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25, ODTA contacts you at day 5+. The NDEA submits a zero-dollar voucher at 30 days. I&L LPS-D handles CBA at 45 days. The DTS PMO automates a zero-dollar voucher at 90 days. You may also lose reimbursement and risk GTCC delinquency.

What is a zero-dollar voucher?

A voucher that closes the authorization without paying the traveler. Used when the traveler did not submit and reimbursable expenses are zeroed out (CBA expenses are retained for reconciliation).

What is the Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2?

The substantiating document attached to a zero-dollar voucher. Located on the RFF DTS SharePoint. Must be uploaded with the "Travel Voucher (Form) 1351-2" expense label, NOT "Memo" or "Other."

What is the Zero Voucher routing list?

A dedicated routing list maintained by the DTS PMO for processing zero-dollar vouchers. Restricted to PMO use only. ODTAs must NOT add it during Global Maintenance.

What if my command's records are excluded from automated processing?

Per MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 paragraph 5, exemptions include TECOM FSTS authorizations, authorizations with scheduled partial payments or advances, deceased traveler records, CBA reconciliation, and system anomalies. Excluded records are returned to the command for research and resolution.

What if my trip was executed but I never submitted a voucher and now it has been more than 90 days?

The DTS PMO will (or may already have) initiated an automated zero-dollar voucher. You can submit a supplemental voucher against the original authorization to claim reimbursement IF the authorization was not cancelled. Coordinate with the FDTA.

What if my authorization has CBA charges but no other expenses?

Do NOT remove the CBA transaction. I&L LPS-D handles CBA reconciliation at 45 days through the CBA reconciliation routing list.

How do I prevent OTOs?

Submit vouchers within 5 working days. Cancel non-executed trips immediately. Monitor DTS notifications. Coordinate with the ODTA before the 30-day threshold.

Where to Go for Help

Routing by Issue

• ODTA outreach response. Reply to the ODTA contact and submit your voucher.
• Cannot submit voucher (technical issue). Coordinate with the unit DTA or ODTA.
• Cannot submit voucher (deployment or remote). Coordinate with the ODTA who can assist with NDEA processing.
• CBA reconciliation questions. The unit FDTA or I&L LPS-D.
• DTS PMO escalation for OTO issues. OMB_HQMC_PR_RFF_DTS_GTCC@USMC.MIL or (703) 784-9110.
• Manual de-obligation requests. Through the FDTA to the DTS PMO.
• Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2. RFF DTS SharePoint at https://usmc.sharepoint-mil.us/sites/DCPR_RFF_External/DTS.
• DFAS Marine Corps Pay direct contact. Phone 1-888-332-7411 (DSN 312-571-9450 from overseas).

Where to Go Next on This Site

• DTS landing page lists all DTS topics.
• DTS Overview and Authorities covers the program framework.
• Submitting DTS Vouchers covers the on-time voucher workflow that prevents OTOs.
• Trip Cancellations in DTS covers immediate cancellation when trips will not execute.
• DTS Voucher Approval Process covers MARADMIN 291/12MARADMIN 291/12 RO and AO timelines.
• DTS Roles and Routing covers ODTA, NDEA, FDTA, and other stakeholder roles.
• GTCC Misuse, Suspension, and Cancellation covers the consequences of late voucher submission on the GTCC.

Related Roles

• Leaders coach Marines on the 5-working-day voucher rule and immediate cancellation when trips will not execute.
• Admin at S-1 supports ODTA outreach and NDEA processing for unsubmitted vouchers.
• Commanders ensure unit OTO totals stay low and Marines respond to ODTA outreach.

OTOs are unresolved DTS authorizations past the trip end date. The Marine Corps has $21.8M in OTOs from FY21-FY25 contributing to audit material weaknesses. MARADMIN 359/25MARADMIN 359/25 establishes the escalation framework. ODTA at day 5+, NDEA zero-dollar voucher at 30 days, I&L LPS-D CBA at 45 days, DTS PMO automated processing at 90 days. Memo in Lieu of DD Form 1351-2DD Form 1351-2 attached with correct expense label. Five exemption categories. Zero Voucher routing list is PMO-only.