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Per diem is a daily payment to reimburse service members for the out-of-pocket cost of food, lodging, and incidental expenses that occur while on military business or temporary duty (TDY) away from their home station. Per diem rates in Afghanistan are set by the Department of Defense (DoD) and apply to U.S. Government personnel or employees of private companies that use DoD per diem rates. These rates are set on a month-by-month basis to reflect seasonal changes in the cost of living. Armed security guards in Afghanistan are reimbursed for their expenses through per diem payments. For example, EOD Technology, Inc. (EODT) provides per diem for meals during initial new hire training and in-processing. Additionally, a U.S. Government contractor seeking armed guards in Afghanistan mentions travel as part of the compensation, which likely includes per diem payments.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who sets the per diem rates in Afghanistan? | Department of Defense (DoD) |
| Who do the per diem rates apply to? | U.S. Government personnel, or employees of private companies that use DoD per diem rates |
| What is the purpose of per diem rates? | Reimbursement for the out-of-pocket cost of food, lodging, and incidental expenses |
| How often are per diem rates set? | Yearly |
| How specific are the per diem rates? | They vary by region in Afghanistan and are set on a month-by-month basis |
| What is included in the per diem rate? | Lodging, meals, and incidental expenses |
| What is the standard per diem rate for most locations in the continental US as of Oct. 1, 2023? | $107 for lodging and $59 for meals, plus a $5 daily incidental allowance |
| What is the starting pay for an armed security guard position with EOD Technology, Inc. in Afghanistan? | $95,000 annually, with pay for meals and lodging during initial training |
| What is the salary for an armed security guard position with a US Government contractor in Afghanistan? | $60,000 per year, plus medical and travel |
What You'll Learn
Per Diem Rates in Afghanistan
For example, in 2019, the per diem rates for Kabul, Afghanistan, were as follows:
- Lodging: $0.00 / night
- Meals & Incidentals: $78.00 / day
In 2023, the maximum per diem rates for travellers authorized to use local hotels and/or restaurants in Afghanistan were:
- Lodging: $102, M&IE (Meals & Incidentals Expenses): $100 for Kabul
- Lodging: $99, M&IE: $40 for Herat
- Lodging: $51, M&IE: $50 for Other, Afghanistan
Additionally, for those whose billeting and meals are provided by the U.S. Government, the per diem rate for incidental expenses is $7.00 per day.
It is worth noting that per diem rates can vary significantly, with standard CONUS rates starting at $166 per day and OCONUS rates going over $800 per day.
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Qualifications for Armed Security Guards
The qualifications required to become an armed security guard vary depending on location and specific regulations. Here are some common qualifications:
Education
A high school diploma or GED certificate is typically the minimum educational requirement for armed security guards.
Training
Armed security guards must complete specialised training in firearm handling and safety, in addition to basic security guard training. The content and duration of training programs vary by state or country but often cover firearm safety, marksmanship, use-of-force laws, emergency response procedures, and conflict resolution. Some states or countries may require additional training and licensing for non-lethal weapons, such as batons, stun guns, or pepper spray.
Age
The minimum age requirement is typically 18 or 21 years old, depending on local laws and regulations.
Background Check
A thorough criminal background check is typically conducted to ensure applicants do not have a history of violent crimes, felonies, or other disqualifying offences. A clean criminal record is usually required.
Physical Fitness
Armed security guards should be physically fit and capable of performing the duties required of them, which may include patrolling, responding to emergencies, and carrying and using firearms effectively.
Character
Demonstrating good moral character and ethical conduct is often a prerequisite for becoming an armed security guard.
Citizenship
Citizenship requirements vary. For example, in the United States, applicants must be US citizens, while in New York, applicants must be either US citizens or have a green card.
Work Experience
Prior work experience in law enforcement, the military, or security is often preferred by employers.
Licenses and Certifications
Armed security guards typically need to obtain a state-issued or government-issued license or permit to carry a firearm. This often involves demonstrating proficiency in handling and safely using firearms. Additional certifications may be required for non-lethal weapons.
Passport and Driver's License
Some positions, especially those involving international travel, may require a valid passport and driver's license.
Medical Examination
A thorough medical examination may be required to ensure applicants are in good health and fit for duty.
Security Clearance
A security clearance, such as a DoD Secret clearance, may be required for certain positions, especially those involving sensitive information or access to restricted areas.
Other Requirements
Other requirements may include proficiency in the local language (both spoken and written), age above a certain threshold (e.g., 25 years or older), and discharge under honorable conditions for former military personnel.
It is important to note that the specific qualifications and requirements can vary significantly depending on the location and the organisation hiring the armed security guards.
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Pay and Benefits for Armed Security Guards
Pay
The pay for armed security guards varies depending on location, experience, and the company. The average hourly pay for an armed security guard in the United States is $18.15 in 2024, with the lowest pay being $13.23/hour and the highest being $25.49/hour. The average salary is $34,197 a year, with the highest 10% of salaries being above $49,000.
In Afghanistan, the pay for armed security guards is higher, with a starting pay of $95,000 annually, and another job offering $60,000 per year plus medical benefits.
Benefits
Armed security guards are eligible for a variety of benefits, including:
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance programs
- Opportunities for advancement
- Professional development assistance
- Tuition reimbursement
- Medical benefits
- Per diem (daily payment to cover food, lodging, and incidental expenses)
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Per Diem Reimbursement Process
Per diem is a daily allowance paid to employees to cover travel-related expenses, such as food, lodging, and incidental costs. It is important to note that per diem is not mandatory and is separate from an employee's income.
Now, here is a step-by-step guide to the per diem reimbursement process:
Determine Eligibility:
Firstly, it is essential to ascertain whether the employee is eligible for per diem reimbursement. Typically, per diem is applicable when employees travel for business and incur out-of-pocket expenses. For government employees, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) sets the per diem rates and guidelines.
Understand the Reimbursement Categories:
Per diem reimbursement is generally divided into three categories: lodging, meals, and incidental expenses. It is important to understand what each category covers:
- Lodging: This includes the cost of accommodation, such as hotel or rental fees.
- Meals: This covers the cost of food and beverages during the travel period.
- Incidental Expenses: These are smaller costs, such as tips, fees for services, laundry, internet access, and room service.
Calculate the Reimbursement Amount:
Per diem rates vary based on location and the cost of living. The GSA provides per diem rates for specific localities within the United States, while the Department of Defense (DoD) sets the rates for foreign areas. The rates are typically updated annually and go into effect on October 1.
Collect Necessary Documentation:
Employees must provide documentation to support their reimbursement claims. This includes expense reports detailing the date, time, place, and amount of each expense. It is essential to note that meal receipts are usually not required, but lodging receipts are necessary for reimbursement.
Submit Reimbursement Requests:
Employees should submit their reimbursement requests within a specified timeframe, typically within 60 days of their return from travel. The requests should be made to the employer or the relevant government agency, depending on the organization's procedures.
Process and Approve Reimbursements:
The employer or agency will then review the reimbursement requests and approve them accordingly. It is important to ensure that the requests adhere to the per diem rates and guidelines for the specific travel locations.
Disburse Reimbursement Payments:
Once the reimbursement requests are approved, the employer or agency will disburse the payment to the employees. This can be done through various methods, such as direct deposit, checks, or company credit cards.
It is important to note that per diem rates and reimbursement processes may vary depending on the organization and the specific travel policies in place. Additionally, in the context of armed contractor guards in Afghanistan, specific contractors and employers will set their own reimbursement rates and processes, which may differ from those outlined above. Therefore, it is always essential to refer to the specific guidelines provided by the employer or contracting organization.
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Per Diem Rates for US Military Personnel
Per diem is a daily payment to reimburse US military personnel for the out-of-pocket cost of food, lodging, and incidental expenses that occur while on military business or temporary duty (TDY) away from their home station. The per diem rate is based on a combination of the maximum lodging and the meals and incidental expenses (M&IE) rates, as well as an incidental expense. The per diem rate varies by location and is set by the General Services Administration (GSA), the Department of State (DoS), and the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO).
For travel to most locations within the continental US, military personnel are reimbursed based on standard per diem rates. For fiscal 2024, starting October 1, 2023, the standard per diem rates are $107 for lodging and $59 for meals, with a $5 daily incidental allowance. The standard CONUS rate is $166 per day, while per diem rates for OCONUS locations can exceed $800 per day. Per diem rates for each region in Afghanistan are set on a month-by-month basis to reflect seasonal changes in the cost of living.
When travelling, military personnel automatically receive the meal and incidentals portion of the per diem. To be reimbursed for lodging, individuals must submit receipts showing the lodging's actual cost or use a government charge card to have receipts automatically entered into their travel account. If lodging costs less than the maximum amount, only the actual cost will be reimbursed, and if it costs more, the difference must be paid out of pocket. However, certain "high-cost" areas have higher reimbursement limits for lodging and meals. Additionally, some areas have higher per diem rates during tourist seasons when prices generally increase.
To find specific per diem rates for a given location, individuals can refer to the DoD Travel and Per Diem website.
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Frequently asked questions
Armed contractor guards can get per diem in Afghanistan. Per diem is a daily payment to reimburse service members for the out-of-pocket cost of food, lodging, and incidental expenses.
The per diem rate varies depending on the location and month of travel. The per diem rate for 2024 ranges from a standard CONUS rate of $166 per day to over $800 per day for OCONUS rates.
The salary of an armed contractor guard in Afghanistan can vary depending on the company and the specific role. Some sources indicate a salary of $60,000 per year, while others mention a starting pay of $95,000 per year.
The requirements to become an armed contractor guard in Afghanistan typically include a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in protective security assignments, either in the US Military or law enforcement agencies. Other requirements may include a minimum age of 25 years, a valid US passport, and the ability to pass medical examinations and background checks.
