Question
May Federal agencies cover additional costs incurred by employees as a result of telework (DSL line, additional phone line, increased use of electricity, etc.)?
Answer
An agency may not use appropriated funds to pay for items of personal expense, such as home utility costs, home maintenance, or insurance, unless there is specific statutory authority.
Authorized expenses incurred while an employee is conducting business for the Government at a telework site may include, at an agency’s discretion, installation of phone lines, payment for telecommunications services (e.g. broadband DSL or Virtual Private Network), and payment for monthly telephone and internet service provider charges.